Google is gearing up to unveil its next-generation Pixel phones on August 12, with the Pixel 11 Pro anticipated to bring several key advancements compared to last year's Pixel 10 Pro. While official specifications remain under wraps, numerous reports offer a glimpse into what consumers can expect from the upcoming flagship.
Despite retaining a similar display and camera setup, the Pixel 11 Pro is rumored to feature substantial internal changes and new functionalities that could appeal strongly to Pixel enthusiasts. These upgrades span core processing power, connectivity, camera capabilities, and charging speeds.
Next-Gen Tensor G6 Chip and Modem
One of the most significant anticipated changes is the integration of Google's new Tensor G6 processor. This chip is reportedly being built on TSMC's advanced 2nm process, a notable step up from the 3nm Tensor G5 found in the Pixel 10 Pro. This architectural shift is expected to deliver considerable improvements in overall performance, power efficiency, and potentially better heat management, addressing a common area of focus for smartphone users.
Alongside the new processor, the Pixel 11 Pro is also rumored to feature a new modem. Google is reportedly transitioning from Samsung's modems to MediaTek's M90 modem. This change could lead to enhanced download speeds, potentially reaching up to 12Gbps, and is claimed to offer up to an 18% improvement in power efficiency through AI-powered optimizations.
Storage and RAM Configuration
Storage options are also seeing an update, with the Pixel 11 Pro expected to drop the 128GB entry-level variant, starting instead with 256GB. However, this upgrade may come with a slight trade-off in RAM for the base model, which is rumored to include 12GB of RAM compared to the 16GB available across the Pixel 10 Pro lineup.
Enhanced Camera Zoom and Faster Charging
The Pixel 11 Pro is set to push the boundaries of smartphone photography with improved zoom capabilities. While the Pixel 10 Pro offered an impressive 100x Pro Res Zoom, leaks suggest the new model is being tested with an even more powerful 120x zoom, leveraging its telephoto lens and advanced AI processing.
Charging technology also receives a boost, with the Pixel 11 Pro expected to support faster 45W wired charging, a significant improvement over the 30W offered by its predecessor. Wireless charging, however, is anticipated to remain at 25W via the Qi2 standard.
New HiLight Notification System and Android 17
Google may introduce a novel rear notification light system, reportedly named HiLight. This feature is rumored to replace the thermometer sensor on the back of the device and could illuminate during interactions with Google's Gemini AI, as well as offer customizable lighting effects for contacts and incoming notifications.
The Pixel 11 Pro is expected to launch running Android 17, ensuring users have access to the latest software innovations and security features. While the 6.3-inch 120Hz Super Actua OLED display is likely to be retained from the previous generation, Google's August 12 event may reveal additional camera, AI, and hardware features not yet detailed in leaks.