As we approach the official launch of Google’s Pixel 10 series, various leaks are shedding light on the devices currently in development. A recent report indicates that the standard Pixel 10 will finally feature a telephoto lens, bringing it in line with the Pro models. Thanks to insider information obtained by Android Authority, we now have detailed camera specifications for all models, revealing a mix of enhancements and trade-offs.
The Addition of a Telephoto in the Pixel 10 is accompanied by a Downgraded Main and Ultrawide
Since the Pixel 6, the standard models have only included wide and ultrawide lenses on the rear, while the Pro versions have added a telephoto lens. The Pixel 10 series changes this narrative. The standard Pixel 10 will include an 11MP Samsung 3J1 telephoto lens, which is borrowed from the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
However, there’s a downside: the main sensor has been downgraded from the larger GNV (1/1.31″) to the smaller Samsung GN8 (1/1.95″), and the ultrawide lens has shifted from an IMX858 (1/2.55″) to a Sony IMX712 (1/3.1″). These are the same sensors found in the Pixel 9a, which is somewhat disappointing.
Smaller sensors typically struggle with low-light performance, a limitation that Google’s AI and algorithms can only mitigate to a certain extent. The selfie camera remains unchanged from last year, but the overall setup feels like a remix of the Pixel 9a with the addition of a telephoto lens.
On the other hand, the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL maintain their existing camera hardware, relying on the Tensor G5’s custom ISP and new algorithms to enhance performance. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold sees a minor adjustment, replacing the Sony IMX787 (from the Pixel 8a) with the GN8 (from the Pixel 9a), but this change is hardly noteworthy.
Google appears to be widening the divide between its base and Pro models, a trend that began last year. The camera downgrade in the Pixel 10—trading larger sensors for smaller ones—likely helps balance the cost and space for the new telephoto lens. Later this year, we’ll find out if Google’s strategy pays off. Despite the smaller main and ultrawide sensors in the base model, the final image quality may not differ significantly from the Pixel 9, as image processing plays a crucial role and can improve independently.
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