Google Pixel 11 Release Date: Expectations, Price Estimates, & Features

The smartphone industry is exceptionally busy at present. Here at Ghostek, we’d only just finished researching the next generation of Samsung and Apple devices, when we realised we’d missed one. One of our editors was chatting with the guy who runs the food truck across the road, and he happened to say, “Hey, isn’t there a new Google Pixel phone coming out too?”

And you know what? He’s absolutely right. There is a new Google Pixel 11 on the way, and we’d almost forgotten. Earl has his finger on the pulse of the tech world, as well as being a talented chef. 

So, we decided to make up for lost time. What is the release date for the next Google Pixel phone, and what can we expect from it? Here’s what we found. 

When is the Google Pixel 11 Release Date?

We don’t have a precise date yet, but we expect the Google Pixel 11 to go on sale in August. You might recall that earlier iterations were usually released in October, but Google tried a different approach with the Pixel 9 in 2024. 

Their immediate rivals at Apple traditionally release their signature iPhones in September. A late summer launch date allowed Google to take some of the wind out of their sales, and it’s proven to be a successful strategy. The Google Pixel 10 set a new record for single-month sales in the US, and they’re no doubt hoping to repeat that. 

Design and Display

Google has previously said that they plan to redesign Pixel phones every two to three years. The last time this happened was with the Google Pixel 9, so unless they’re planning a big surprise, the Pixel 11 should look relatively familiar. Design-wise, we’re expecting it to resemble the previous two generations to the extent that you could look at one and instantly say, “Yes, that’s a Pixel.” 

That said, there are likely to be some subtle upgrades and alterations. The tipster Mystic Leaks recently posted an update that the display screen is getting an overhaul. It should feature:

• A 6.3-inch OLED display

• 1080 x 2424 resolution

• 60 - 120HZ refresh rate

• 3,100 nits peak brightness

There’s also talk of something called ‘Pixel Glow,’ but we’ve yet to confirm much about it. It’ll have to remain a mystery for now, although one of our marketers hopes it means the phone glows in the dark. That way, he can find it more easily in the middle of the night, and there’s less chance of waking his wife up. We’re not holding our breath. 

Google Pixel 11 Tech Specs

While the overall appearance will be familiar, there’s going to be a few out-of-sight changes hidden behind that marginally brighter display screen. 

One notable rumor is that Google will be abandoning the 128GB storage model and instead start with a base level of 256GB. This hasn’t been leaked anywhere, but it would match what their competitors are doing and bring them in line with the wider market. The Apple iPhone 17e started at 256GB, and it stands to reason that Google will do the same. 

They’re also likely to equip the Pixel 11 with:

• 12GB RAM

• Tensor G6 CPU

• 5G sim dual-active support

• Facial recognition 

• Voice translation 

• Expanded AI features

Of particular note is that it could feature the rumored Titan M3 security chip. This would be incorporated into the Tensor G6 and offer extra protection for users. If true, it would mean that Google Pixel 11 owners will have improved data encryption, as well as better protection for digital transactions. 

Google Pixel 11 Camera

Next, let’s look at some of the camera rumors. We know from our website data that whenever we preview an upcoming phone, a significant chunk of you skip to this part. Hi guys, good to have you with us. 

Anyway, the Pixel 10 series had an impressive camera setup, especially the Pixel 10 Pro. The Pixel 11 has a lot to live up to, but all the signs are positive. We’re looking at:

• 48MP main camera

• 13MP ultrawide camera

• 10.8MP 5x telephoto camera

• 10.5MP selfie camera

That Tensor G6 chipset is likely to have an impact here. It’ll support improved AI features that can offer photography tips and may teach even the most camera-phobic types to take better pictures. 

Yes, the camera coach is a bit on the gimmicky side, and we imagine a few of you are rolling your eyes at the thought of it. But it’s a useful tool for newcomers all the same. 

Battery Life and Charging

To round this off, let’s consider the battery. This might be something of a sore point: Google phones rarely feature the best battery power, and the issue was exacerbated with a minor controversy around the Pixel 10’s battery capacity. We don’t yet know if Google is including that same, unwanted reduction on the Pixel 11, but the rumored capacities are:

• Standard Pixel 11: 4,840mAh

• Pixel 11 Pro: 4,707mAh

• Pixel 11 Pro XL: 5,000mAh

• Pixel 11 Pro Fold: 4,658mAh

That isn’t the worst we’ve seen, but we appreciate it might be frustrating news for Pixel fans who’d prefer more use before the power runs out. In fact, the battery for the standard model is 100mAh lower than its predecessor. 

We’re hoping that Google knows something we don’t. They may have optimized the device to be more efficient. The Pixel 11 Pro having less battery capacity than the regular version is an eyebrow-raising curiosity too. 

The good news is that it should still support 45W wired charging and 25W wireless charging. That might not be much of a consolation if you’re hoping for a smartphone that has more than 13 hours of battery life, but we’ll reserve judgment until we can give the Pixel 11 a proper field test. 

Don’t Forget About the Price Tag

Disappointing power outlook aside, we have to admit that the Google Pixel 11 series smartphones are looking very appealing. Based on current trends, we believe it’ll be in the region of $859 for a standard version with 256GB storage. This is an educated guess, but it is a guess all the same, so please don’t show up outside our office with pitchforks if it turns out to be higher. 

But until the Pixel 11 goes on sale, you can always follow Ghostek to keep your excitement bubbling over. We’re happy to call ourselves techheads, and believe it or not, really enjoy conducting rumor-hunts about the next generation of devices. We’ll keep you updated with all the news and whispers, so check back regularly to stay informed.

And of course, we have a collection of Google Pixel cases and accessories available. If this essay has got you thinking about personalizing your smartphone, have a look. You might find the case of your dreams.