Google will launch its next generation of Pixel smartphones at a Made by Google event in New York City on August 12, 2026. The company has now confirmed the event meaning the launch date is official and not just a rumour. The presentation should see the unveiling of the Google Pixel 11 family, comprising the standard Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL. But we could also see the Pixel 11 Pro Fold get revealed.
It’s before the traditional fall smartphone cycle for some competitors. In recent years Google moved its flagship Pixel launches to summer so the company can get its latest hardware out ahead of other big smartphone launches.
New processor upgrade could make Pixel 11 much faster
One of the biggest rumoured changes is that it will be powered by Google’s Tensor G6 processor. The new chip is said to be built on a more advanced 2nm process that should offer better performance and power efficiency over the last generation.
There are also rumours that the Pixel 11 is getting a new modem as well, with reports pointing to MediaTek’s M90 modem. That would be a big change considering older Pixel generations have used Samsung modem tech. A new modem could assist with cellular performance, connectivity and power efficiency, but post-launch real-world improvements will need to be verified.
new camera hardware features possible
We’ll probably see a lot of camera upgrades in the Pixel 11 lineup, too. The leaks suggest Google is gearing up to improve its camera capabilities, particularly in areas like video recording and low-light photography.
As for the regular Pixel 11, it’s expected to go back to dual cameras and no dedicated telephoto lens, while the Google Pixel 11 Pro models are said to keep the triple-camera setup. Rumours also point to additional software-driven camera features such as improved low-light video and new video processing features.
Google Pixel 11 From $899
Another big question mark surrounding the upcoming launch is the pricing. Recent leaks have hinted that the base Pixel 11 could start at around $899 in the US. The Pixel 11 Pro could start at about $1,099, while the Pixel 11 Pro XL could start at about $1,299.
That would be about $100 over the starting prices of the last generation. However, a rumoured storage upgrade could soften the blow for buyers, as Google is apparently ditching the 128GB entry-level option and making 256GB the new base capacity.
Google Pixel 11 could get 12GB of RAM
Leaked specs suggest the base Pixel 11 will have 12GB of RAM, and the Pro models may also move to 12GB of RAM instead of offering higher memory options across the board. The devices are anticipated to launch with Android 17 out of the box and could include some extra software features for Google’s newest hardware.
Pixel 11 with a new Tensor processor, updated modem and some more software optimisation could be more about efficiency and on-device processing, rather than just the traditional benchmark performance.
Sources
- Google – Official announcement August 12, 2026 Created Google event in New York City
- The Verge – Pixel 11 specs leak, US pricing rumours, storage shake up, Tensor G6 and RAM options.
- Engadget – Rumoured Pixel line-up, and August 12 launch event coverage.
- Tech Advisor breakdown – Pixel 11 release date, specs, design changes, expected models
