Google Pixel 11 phones: Your ultimate guide

After what feels like a never-ending series of leaks, Google has officially launched the all-new Pixel 11 range, featuring four flagship phones to go up against similar handsets from the likes of Apple and Samsung. Curious to know if it’s time to upgrade? Keep on reading for all the key info.

Even though they didn’t represent massive overhauls compared to what came before, the Pixel 10 range featured an impressive set of phones that were easy to recommend to almost anyone. Even the entry-level Pixel 10 felt like a bargain buy with an added camera, magnetic charging and a faster chipset.

Unfortunately, anyone hoping that Google might have been saving a bunch of upgrades for the Pixel 11 range will need to temper their expectations a tad, as the phones are more of a refinement over last year’s crop.

Still, there are a few essential additions that might tip the scales for someone hoping to upgrade this year – from the new HiLight feature to the eye-catching Canyon colourway – so here’s all you need to know about the new Pixel 11 phones.

Pixel 11: What’s new?

HiLight (and a fresh coat of paint)

One of the first rumours to drop about the new Pixel phones was the idea of a light on the back of the phones that could be used to indicate notifications and incoming calls, similar to the glyph system on Nothing Phones. Well, we now know that to be true as the Pixel 11 range carries the all-new HiLight system.

HiLight is built around the flash module on the back of the phones, using LED lights to communicate things. For instance, you can assign colours to certain contacts so you know exactly who’s calling when the phone is faced down. HiLight can also be used to indicate when Google Gemini is listening to you and processing a query or request.

Google

In addition to HiLight, the entire range comes in a host of new colours (almost every one is new), with each phone notably having one type of green colourway. The full list of SKUs is as follows:

Pixel 11 colours

• Frost
• Pistachio
• Hibiscus
• Obsisian

Pixel 11 Pro/11 Pro XL colours

• Canyon
• Fog
• Olive
• Obsidian (matte)

Pixel 11 Pro Fold colours

• Olive
• Obsidian

A new processor and storage bump

Easily the most expected upgrade of the bunch, the Pixel 11 range is now powered by the all-new Tensor G6 chipset. According to Google, the upgraded processor packs 20% improved power efficiency alongside 15% faster app loading, which should mean that everyday use feels smoother than what’s capable on the Pixel 10 range.

What’s crucial is that Google touts a more advanced TPU that should allow the phones to carry out more complex AI commands on-device, something that feels even more important this year following the unveiling of Gemini Intelligence, which is a crucial part of Android 17.

This expansion of Gemini goes beyond its previous chatbot abilities, instead acting as a personal assistant on your behalf with the ability to use apps independently. Google has shown off examples of Gemini Intelligence being used to book holidays and tables at a local restaurant, so we’re eager to see how this all stacks up when the phones come in for testing.

The 128GB models of yesteryear have also been done away with, as every Pixel 11 phone now comes with 256GB as standard.

Google

Welcome camera refinements

Cameras have long been the crowning jewel of the Pixel experience, and so Google has made the smart decision to implement a few targeted upgrades here. On the standard Pixel 11, there’s a larger 48Mp main sensor which can supposedly let in 56% more light, while the telephoto lens can lean on the Tensor G6 to provide 30x Super Zoom (if you need it).

The Pixel 11 Pro and its larger Pro XL sibling are also getting a better main camera, but it’s the telephoto lens where Google has focused its attention. The 48Mp telephoto now packs 30% more light sensitivity alongside the ability to capture Portrait Mode shots at 5x optical zoom. Going one step further, the Tensor chip can push the zoom capabilities up to 120x.

By comparison, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold’s cameras are largely the same from what we’ve seen on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

Brighter displays & faster charging

In terms of smaller tweaks, Google has upped the peak brightness to 3600 nits on the Pro-level Pixel 11 phones, which is a nice touch for making them easier to use in the great outdoors. 

All phones in the range will also feature faster Qi2.2 magnetic charging at up to 25W, giving the handsets a leg up against Samsung, which has still yet to embrace the technology at all (without using a case).

Note that despite Google’s continued support for magnetic wireless charging, it hasn’t launched any new Pixelsnap accessories with the Pixel 11 phones. This is a bit strange, but there are some new colours available to match at least.

Credit: Google

When is the Google Pixel 11 release date?

The Google Pixel 11 phones were unveiled 12 August at the Made by Google event in New York alongside the Pixel Watch 5 and Pixel Tag.

They will go on sale 20 August globally and you can pre-order now.

How much does the Google Pixel 11 cost?

The Pixel 11 range starts at £879/$899, marking a substantial price increase over the Pixel 10 phones, which had a starting rate of £799/$799.

Google is offering a pre-order incentive in the form of six months of Google AI Pro included with the devices.

Here are the prices in full:

• Pixel 11 – From £879/$899
• Pixel 11 Pro – From £1,079/$1,099
• Pixel 11 Pro XL – From £1,279/$1,299
• Pixel 11 Pro Fold – From £1,799/$1,899

Credit: Google