The highly anticipated Google Pixel 11 series is almost here. Google is set to unveil its next generation of flagship smartphones at the annual “Made by Google” event today, August 12, 2026. With major upgrades expected—from the new Tensor G6 processor to a unique new design feature—the tech world is buzzing with excitement.
Here is a comprehensive roundup of everything you need to know about the Google Pixel 11 announcement, including the expected release date, price leaks, and hardware upgrades.
When and Where to Watch the Made by Google Event
Google is hosting an in-person event in New York City to launch the Pixel 11 lineup.
- Date: August 12, 2026
- Time: 6:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM PT (Translates to 3:30 AM IST on August 13 for viewers in India)
- How to Watch: The event will be broadcast live on Google’s official YouTube channel.
The presentation will be hosted by Trevor Noah, with special appearances by NBA star Steph Curry, track and field athlete Chari Hawkins, and podcast host Alex Cooper.
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Google Pixel 11 Series: The Lineup and Expected Price
This year, Google is expected to release four distinct models in the Pixel 11 family:
- Google Pixel 11 (Base model)
- Google Pixel 11 Pro
- Google Pixel 11 Pro XL (A larger Pro variant)
- Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold (The next-generation foldable)
A Global Price Hike?
Buyers should brace for a potential price increase. Reports indicate that Google is dropping the 128GB base storage option, meaning all Pixel 11 phones will start at 256GB of storage. Due to a global semiconductor component crisis and rising RAM costs, this storage bump comes with a premium.
- US Pricing Leaks: The standard Pixel 11 is expected to start at $899 (a $100 increase). The Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL could cost $1,099 and $1,299, respectively. The Pro Fold may jump to $1,899.
- India Pricing Leaks: Leaks suggest the base Pixel 11 will start at Rs 89,999 (a Rs 10,000 hike over the Pixel 10). The Pro and Pro XL are tipped at Rs 1,19,999 and Rs 1,34,999, while the Fold could cost around Rs 1,86,999.
Pre-orders are expected to go live immediately following the event on August 12, with retail availability rumored to begin around August 20.
Key Specifications and Upgrades to Expect
The Pixel 11 series isn’t just getting a storage bump; several significant hardware and software changes are on the horizon.
1. The Tensor G6 Chipset
All four models will be powered by Google’s new Tensor G6 processor, reportedly manufactured on TSMC’s highly efficient 2nm process node. This shift prioritizes better thermal management, longer battery life, and superior on-device AI processing rather than just peak benchmark scores. The phones are also expected to feature a new PowerVR GPU and a MediaTek M90 modem.
2. The “HiLight” LED Module
A major design wildcard for the Pixel 11 series is a new multicoloured LED array on the camera bar. Originally rumored as “Pixel Glow,” this feature is now expected to be called HiLight. It is designed to light up for specific notifications (like incoming calls from certain contacts), charging statuses, and potentially interactions with Google’s Gemini AI.
3. Camera Adjustments
Google’s computational photography is always a highlight, but hardware changes are coming:
- Base Pixel 11: Rumors suggest the standard model might drop its telephoto lens entirely, relying instead on a high-resolution main sensor (expected to be 48MP or 50MP) and a 13MP ultra-wide camera, utilizing AI for up to 30x Super Res Zoom.
- Pro Models: The Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL will retain their advanced multi-lens setups, with rumors suggesting support for up to 120x AI-enhanced zoom.
4. Displays and Memory
- Screen Sizes: The Pixel 11 and 11 Pro are tipped to feature 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED displays. The Pro XL scales up to a 6.8-inch screen, while the Pro Fold is expected to retain its 8-inch inner and 6.5-inch outer displays.
- RAM Changes: Interestingly, the entry-level Pro models may launch with 12GB of RAM, a step down from the 16GB standard seen in previous generations, though higher RAM configurations will likely be available.
5. Fresh New Colors
Expect some vibrant new shades this year. The standard Pixel 11 has been linked to colors like Hibiscus, Frost, Obsidian, and Pistachio. The Pro lineup could introduce Olive, Canyon, and Fog.
Beyond the Phones: Pixel Watch 5
The Pixel 11 smartphones won’t be the only hardware on stage. Google has confirmed the launch of the Pixel Watch 5, which will come in 41mm and 45mm sizes. Leaks indicate a significant internal upgrade, tripling storage to 64GB and boosting RAM to 3GB to help run Gemini AI micro-models directly on the smartwatch. We might also see a new tracking accessory, heavily rumored to be called the Pixel Tag.
Final Thoughts
With base storage upgrades, the new Tensor G6 chip, and the intriguing “HiLight” LED feature, the Google Pixel 11 series is shaping up to be a compelling, albeit more expensive, offering. Tune in to the Made by Google event to see how these leaks translate to reality and how deeply Google plans to integrate its Gemini AI into our daily lives.