Google’s new Pixel 11 plays it safe with a few smart upgrades
Google's Pixel 11 brings a faster Tensor G6 chip, double the base storage, and a lighter build, while leaving the rest largely unchanged. Here's what's new on Google's latest entry-level flagship.
Google has unveiled its new Pixel 11 smartphone alongside the Pixel 11 Pro models at the Made by Google event in New York. The device brings several improvements over last year's Pixel 10, although it is not a significant leap forward. The Pixel 11 shares the new Tensor G6 processor and Titan M3 security chip with the other flagship models in Google's 2026 lineup.
It also resolves a long-standing complaint by eliminating the 128GB storage variant, doubling the base storage to 256GB, and offering up to 512GB of Zoned UFS storage for enhanced performance. The Pixel 11 weighs less than its predecessor, dropping from 7.2 ounces to 6.9 ounces while featuring a slightly larger 4,985 mAh battery.
The 48MP main image sensor has been increased in size from 1/2.0 inch to 1/1.56 inch, potentially improving low-light performance. Super Zoom has been upgraded to 30x from 20x on the previous model, and wireless charging speed has increased from 15W to 25W. The Pixel 11 is available in four new color options: Frost, Obsidian, Indigo, and Lemongrass, replacing the previous Indigo and Lemongrass shades with Pistachio and Hibiscus.
Running Android 17, the Pixel 11 comes with enhanced Gemini Intelligence capabilities, a sign language translation feature, and Circle to Search support in the Pixel Camera app. The camera app now includes Magic Capture and Camera Looks tools, while voice-to-text capabilities have been upgraded to remove filler words and adapt text to your style.
The 6.3-inch Actua display remains unchanged, maintaining its OLED panel, 20:9 aspect ratio, 1080 x 2424 resolution, and 422 ppi pixel density, protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The 13MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto, and 10.5MP selfie cameras remain the same as on the Pixel 10. Build quality is unchanged, with an aluminum frame and IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.
The Pixel 11 supports wired charging at 30W and Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6, and USB-C 3.2 connectivity options. Pre-orders for the 12GB+256GB configuration start at $899.99, while the 512GB model is priced at $1,019. The device is expected to begin retail availability on August 20. Google's AirDrop-compatible Quick Share feature may now extend to older Pixel devices, including the Pixel 7 and Pixel 8, which have reportedly started receiving notifications for file sharing with Apple devices.
Written by urgent.news from Digital Trends's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
