After owning every Google Pixel flagship, here’s why 2025 will be a turning point for me

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• The Google Pixel 10 is expected to receive significant upgrades this year, including a dedicated telephoto lens.
• Greater feature parity with the Pro models, combined with no expected price increases, makes the standard Pixel an enticing option.
• It still won’t be the best option for power users, especially if you want the most capable camera system from Google.

Google’s non-Pro Pixel phone has always been the “safe pick.” It’s the model I recommend to most users, so long as they can live without the Pro features — whether that’s an extra telephoto camera, more RAM, or better hardware.

Also: This rumored Pixel 10 feature puts Google above Samsung and OnePlus for me – here’s why

While there’s little left to the imagination as far as what the upcoming Google Pixel 10 phones will look like, if the leaks and rumors are true, there will be a notable shift in dynamics this year. I’ll say it now: The Pixel 10, not the Pixel 10 Pro, will be both the safe pick and the best pick in 2025. I’m not alone in that belief, and here’s why.

1. A telephoto lens to zoom further

An early look at marketing renders suggests that the base-model Pixel 10 will finally get a dedicated telephoto lens, rounding out the traditional main and ultrawide sensors. Whether it’s pulled from last year’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold or another older model, having a greater optical zoom range will allow users to capture distant subjects with more clarity and detail. 

It’s a big win, whether you frequently capture photos of your child or pet running around from afar, or want to preserve the liveliness of an artist from your nose-bleed seats.

Also: Google will announce its next lineup of Pixels on August 20 – Here’s what we know

There is one notable trade-off with this design decision: Google is reportedly downgrading the main and ultrawide sensors of the Pixel 10 to match the Pixel 9a (which had an inferior camera system to last year’s Pixel 9) in order to integrate the additional telephoto sensor. While I found the Pixel 9a’s 48MP shooter capable enough for most environments, camera buffs may be more drawn to the Pixel 10 Pro for this reason.

2. The same Tensor G5 chip as the Pro

Google’s in-house Tensor chipset doesn’t necessarily have the best track record for performance, cellular connectivity, and efficiency, but things are looking up with the upcoming G5 model. If the rumored 3nm design and TSMC-based manufacturing (versus Samsung Foundry) are to be realized, we may finally be looking at a system processor that delivers snappy day-to-day performance while also reliably maintaining heat and power usage.

Also: Google’s latest chip is all about reducing one huge hidden cost in AI

To be clear, I’m not expecting the Tensor G5 to set new benchmark high scores or compete closely with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra or OnePlus 13; that’s never really been the draw of Google’s in-house silicon. 

Instead, having the same processor as the Pro models should give the standard Pixel 10 access to all of Google’s latest AI tools, many of which have landed well with consumers over the past year. Perhaps most importantly, Google will still have full rein over the Pixel line’s software and security updates, allowing the devices to stay more feature-relevant than any other Android phone on the market.

3. The flashiest features will also be on the non-Pro model

From the feature parity that includes magnet-based Qi2 wireless charging capabilities to a charming new Indigo blue color, it’s likely that the Google Pixel 10 will be the model that appeals to most people. It certainly has for me, much like how the ultramarine iPhone 16 stuck out in the spread of subdued, monotone Pro model handsets last year.

Also: The best Android phones to buy in 2025

Another hardware difference between the regular and Pro Pixel phones this year will be the textured sides, with the former being matte-treated and the latter having a glossy finish. From having tested various handsets with various industrial designs over the years, I’ve found that matte-treated side rails are the most effective. The finish resists retaining oil and fingerprint smudges, keeping the phone looking cleaner.

Alas, the Pixel 10’s lower price point, projected to still be $799 for the 128GB configuration, makes it a compelling upgrade for anyone coming from an older handset. We’ll learn more about the new Pixel 10 phones during the Made by Google event next Wednesday, so stay tuned.

ZDNET has reached out to Google for more details on the rumors and will report back with any new information.

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