This year’s Google I/O demonstrated that artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to play a crucial role in the future of Android. Among various exciting announcements, attendees got an early glimpse of the Android XR smart glasses, a new headset, and a next-generation video conferencing kit. However, a notable omission was the upcoming Pixel 10 series phones.
While Google I/O typically focuses on software and features over hardware, this year’s emphasis leaned more towards mobile users rather than desktop enthusiasts. The absence of the Pixel lineup became evident when Google executives showcased advancements in Gemini AI, often using the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra to demonstrate the potential of these technologies.
It was unexpected to see such a lack of attention on the Pixel line, especially since it’s frequently marketed as an “AI phone.” Why not feature the Pixel 9 Pro or its foldable counterpart, both of which are regarded as excellent Android smartphones? Also, a sneak peek of the Pixel 10 could have stirred excitement.
While Google hasn’t disclosed its reasons, it seems they are saving the buzz for an upcoming launch event. However, I/O offered invaluable insights into the software experience that the Pixel 10 series will deliver, such as Android 16 and its AI features.
Camera Enhancements Take Center Stage
For many users, the most compelling reasons to choose a Pixel phone are its outstanding camera quality and access to the latest Android version. During the beta phase of Android 16, Google hinted at new features for greater creative control in the camera app. These enhancements will include a software-assisted boost for low-light photography.
The update will bring a new hybrid auto exposure system, allowing users to modify ISO and exposure levels conveniently. With this, expect similar photographic styles to what users can find on the iPhone 16 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S25 series.
Additionally, camera upgrades will coincide with improved battery efficiency. With the new native PCM offloading pipeline, Google claims that its onboard digital signal processor can manage audio playback more effectively, thereby conserving battery life during video and audio capture.
Video capturing demands significant power, and it’s exciting to think about what further enhancements are in store for the Pixel 10. Google also presented insights into the CameraX and Media3 stack during a developer-focused session.
The Pixel 10 series is expected to provide a more adaptable Android experience, especially concerning aspect ratios and video resolutions. The Media3 effect connector will allow users to incorporate creative filters, enhancing user engagement significantly.
AI Innovations
One of the standout announcements from I/O 2025 was the introduction of the new Veo 3 AI model. This model can create photorealistic videos with matching audio. Yet, the enhancements made to the older Veo 2 model are particularly relevant for smartphone users.
This model now allows users to input style references through images and videos, define camera movements, and manipulate objects within videos. Such capabilities may be applicable on devices, although performance and processing power remain to be clarified.
The recent developments in AI for video generation seen in other devices highlight its potential benefits for the Pixel 10’s native camera. Imagine being able to upload an image and effortlessly generating videos with similar styles, allowing for complete control over framing and object appearance.
Shifting the App Paradigm
With the recent creation of a system called apps (previously known as extensions), Google has enhanced how Gemini interacts with multiple platforms. It can easily manage details from Gmail, assign tasks, and handle messaging applications like WhatsApp.
While still evolving, this system aims to deliver autonomous capabilities that extend beyond traditional apps. Project Mariner, which debuted during Google I/O, represents this revolutionary shift, allowing AI to automate tasks such as booking tickets or making reservations based on simple text commands.
The potential for AI to pull information from various Google apps enhances overall user experience. While it simplifies tasks, it does raise questions about how essential individual applications will remain in a future dominated by voice-enabled commands and AI-driven features.
As Google progresses with Gemini Live, expect it to hold conversations managed by AI, allowing multitasking with voice commands across applications like Calendar and Maps. It’s a preview of what’s to come with Project Astra, and it’s set to revolutionize our idea of interaction with technology.
What’s Next for Pixel 10?
Throughout the I/O conference, “AI” was mentioned an impressive 92 times. Future leaks suggest that the Pixel 10 series will closely resemble its predecessor, the Pixel 9 series.
This puts Google in a position where innovations need to stem more from software enhancements rather than hardware advancements. Think of Apple and Samsung, who have successfully implemented similar strategies in their product lines, focusing on refining existing hardware while enriching user experience through software innovations.
Only time will tell if the Pixel 10 series can forge ahead and truly elevate the user experience in what may seem like a familiar setting compared to its predecessor.
What features should I expect in the Google Pixel 10? The Google Pixel 10 is expected to feature significant camera improvements, better AI capabilities, and a richer software experience centered around Android 16.
Will the Pixel 10 series be worth the upgrade? If you seek enhanced software features and superior camera technology, the Pixel 10 could offer a worthwhile upgrade, especially with the anticipated enhancements in AI.
How will AI change the user experience in the Pixel 10? AI advancements in the Pixel 10 are likely to enable better task automation, improved camera functionalities, and an enriched overall user experience.
As advancements continue to unfold, stay tuned for more updates, and explore related content at Moyens I/O.