Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Review: Subtle Upgrades, Familiar Design

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Google has officially introduced the Pixel 10 Pro XL, a flagship smartphone that focuses on refinement rather than radical change.

While the device brings a bigger battery and a new chipset, the overall design and camera system remain largely unchanged from last year’s Pixel 9 Pro XL.

For current Pixel 9 Pro XL users, the lack of major hardware upgrades may not be enough to justify an immediate switch. However, for new buyers, the Pixel 10 Pro XL still presents itself as a premium option in the crowded smartphone market.

One of the standout aspects of the Pixel series is its seamless blend of hardware and Google’s unique software. Running on Android 16, the Pixel 10 Pro XL delivers an exceptionally fluid user experience. The polished haptic feedback adds a near-physical feel when navigating the device, setting it apart from many Android rivals.

Design-wise, Google has leaned into elegance. The Jade color variant, featuring a subtle green finish with a glossy gold frame, has already caught attention. The phone feels more ergonomic and curvier compared to the sharper-edged designs of competing flagships. Other available finishes include Moonstone (dark grey), Porcelain (cream), and Obsidian (black).

On the camera front, Google has opted not to make any changes to the triple-camera setup. While this decision might disappoint users expecting new hardware, the Pixel’s strength lies in Google’s computational photography. With the company’s unique image processing, the Pixel 10 Pro XL could still outperform rivals despite sticking with familiar camera sensors.

The smartphone is available in two storage options: 16GB RAM + 256GB and 16GB RAM + 512GB, priced at €1,299 and €1,429 respectively. In the US, the prices start at $1,199 for the base variant and $1,319 for the higher storage model. Each unit ships with a USB-C cable included in the box.

With its mix of premium design, polished software, and subtle hardware improvements, the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is likely to appeal to new buyers seeking a refined Android experience, though it may feel like a modest upgrade for existing Pixel fans.