In the ever-competitive smartphone market, Google's Pixel series has built a solid reputation, particularly for its exceptional photography capabilities. As we look forward to the eagerly anticipated Pixel 10 Pro models, early insights suggest that Google is taking a somewhat conservative approach with the hardware. Instead of introducing extensive upgrades, the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL appear to be relying on the same foundational components as their predecessors. However, there is a significant new feature that could attract potential buyers: a telephoto zoom camera, marking a first for the entry-level flagship models.

At first glance, the addition of three sensors on the Pixel 10 may seem like a considerable enhancement. Yet, upon closer inspection, it reveals a concerning trend—Google is opting to downgrade the main and ultrawide cameras to utilize the same hardware as its more budget-friendly Pixel 9a. This shift implies that the camera setup of the Pixel 10 can be viewed as an upgraded Pixel 9a, now simply equipped with a zoom lens, rather than a slightly less advanced version of the Pixel 10 Pro. The strategic decision to employ thinner and smaller sensor modules might aim to accommodate the new lens while also minimizing production costs, yet the implications for image quality could be troubling.

Light capture is a crucial factor in photography, and larger sensors with bigger individual pixels are key to achieving high-quality images. Unfortunately, the Pixel 10 is set to transition from a 50MP 1/1.31-inch main sensor to a smaller 50MP 1/1.95-inch sensor, resulting in smaller pixels that could negatively impact light capture and overall sharpness. The ultrawide sensor downgrade, although less severe, also raises concerns. A reduction from a 1/2.55-inch sensor to a 1/3.1-inch sensor, combined with a shift from an f/1.7 aperture to an f/2.2 aperture, may limit its ability to capture light effectively—a critical aspect for a camera already lacking in fine detail.

This array of downgrades, subtle as they may be, is enough to raise alarms among enthusiasts and critics alike. The new camera setup, which includes the much-anticipated telephoto lens, brings with it a compromise: while Google is adding zoom functionality, it is simultaneously sacrificing quality in the primary and ultrawide lenses. For those who often find themselves zooming in for portraits or distant shots, the new lens might seem like a welcome addition. In previous reviews, the lack of zoom capabilities in the Pixel 9 was noted, especially when compared to competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S24 FE, which provide additional zoom options at similar or lower price points.

With flagship smartphones increasingly expected to feature telephoto lenses, the anticipation for the Pixel 10's capabilities is palpable. In isolation, the decision to include a telephoto lens may be a wise one for enhancing zoom flexibility, despite the accompanying downgrades of other camera components. However, the question remains: will these adjustments ultimately render the Pixel 10 a more appealing purchase?

Comparatively, the telephoto lens in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold—set to feature on the Pixel 10—has been viewed as a downgrade relative to its Pro counterparts. The noticeable decline in fine detail quality raises concerns for those serious about photography. While the Pixel 10 will be priced lower than the Fold, the efficacy of a mediocre telephoto lens remains in question, especially with other components being less capable than their predecessors. The downgrades draw inevitable comparisons to Google’s existing offerings, which could hinder the device’s launch momentum.

Furthermore, the Pixel 10's photography capabilities will not only be weaker than the Pro models, but it will also feature inferior specifications compared to last year's Pixel 9. The idea of having a telephoto lens that sacrifices quality in the other two lenses is troubling, particularly when considering that the Pixel 10 Pro—and even the previous year’s Pixel 9 Pro—appears far more attractive to serious photographers. The quality of the ultrawide shots from last year's Pixel 9, even under overcast conditions, raises questions about how the Pixel 10 will perform with its smaller and less capable sensors.

To enhance photography, a dual-camera setup that replaces the ultrawide with a telephoto could have been a game-changer, offering improved image quality overall. The existing ultrawide quality has been a point of contention, making this decision all the more critical. Without this adjustment, the Pixel 10 seems to be positioning itself more as an upgrade to the budget Pixel 9a rather than a true competitor to the Pro models it’s meant to rival. At a price point anticipated to start at $799—contrasting sharply with the Pixel 9a's $499—expectations have significantly shifted over the years.

Despite these concerns, the Pixel 10 is expected to come with its own set of appealing features beyond just the new telephoto lens. The introduction of the Tensor G5 processor, a state-of-the-art 5G modem, and the inclusion of some of the latest software enhancements may well sway consumers to consider this upgrade over the Pixel 9a. Aesthetically, the Pixel 10 mirrors the design of the higher-end Pro models, which some consumers may prefer over the simpler aesthetics of the 9a.

One of the most significant advantages for the Pixel 10 over the 9a is the expected increase in RAM. This upgrade will enable the Pixel 10 to serve as a more powerful showcase for Google's cutting-edge AI capabilities. While the budget Pixel 9a is limited to the smaller version of Gemini Nano, restricting its functionality to text-based tasks, the Pixel 10 is poised to include advanced audio and imaging features. Consumers who are looking to leverage Google’s AI tools will likely find the Pixel 10 appealing. However, those seeking the pinnacle of Google’s AI capabilities may want to consider the Pixel 10 Pro, as it will likely offer even more RAM and exclusive features such as Video Boost and prioritized access to the latest Feature Drops.

The disparity between the regular Pixel 10 and the Pro model is becoming increasingly evident. If the Pixel 10 incorporates Pro-level software features while having specs closer to the 9a, that might be acceptable. However, it seems that the Pixel 10 is destined to have some high-end specs without quite reaching the premium software experience. Its pricing strategy effectively positions it between the more affordable A-series and the more powerful Pro options, yet it remains unclear who exactly the target demographic for the Pixel 10 will be. With its current trajectory, it doesn’t seem tailored for budget-conscious users, AI enthusiasts, or discerning photographers.

There has always been a level of ambiguity in Google’s flagship and A-series lineups, but the upcoming Pixel 10 does little to alleviate these concerns. Perhaps it is simply the best attempt Google can muster to compete with industry giants like Apple and Samsung in the $799 range. However, both of those brands offer impressive AI feature parity across their flagship models, as well as superior performance metrics. It remains to be seen if Google will surprise the market with a range of shared features between the Pixel 10 and 10 Pro, but one should not expect too much.

In conclusion, the Pixel 10 seems poised to cater to those who appreciate a bit of everything Google has to offer, even if it isn’t quite cutting-edge. While that might be an acceptable position, it’s essential to recognize that the expectation for the Pixel 10 should be more than just satisfactory; it should be exceptional. Given that it appears to feature downgrades relative to its predecessor, it’s challenging to view the Pixel 10 as a top-tier product. When it officially launches, I can foresee myself revising my Pixel 9 review: if advanced AI capabilities aren't a priority for you, the Pixel 9a may be a more sensible choice. Ultimately, a new telephoto lens—introduced at the expense of lower-quality primary and ultrawide sensors—may not be enough to sway potential buyers.