On August 20, 2025, Google unveiled its latest Pixel 10 series at the Made by Google event. While the event was anticipated to showcase significant technological advancements, it was marred by an over-the-top presentation that detracted from the innovations on display.
The Event’s Presentation:
The event was hosted by late-night television personality Jimmy Fallon, whose exaggerated enthusiasm often felt misplaced. For instance, his repeated exclamations of I P 6 8! I P 6 8!—referring to the phones’ water-resistance rating—highlighted a feature that has been standard since the Pixel 3 in 2018. This attempt to generate excitement over a well-established feature underscored a disconnect between the presentation and the audience’s expectations.
In addition to Fallon, the event featured appearances by celebrities such as Stephen Curry, Alex Cooper, and the Jonas Brothers. While their involvement aimed to add star power, it often felt forced and detracted from the core technological announcements. The reliance on celebrity endorsements gave the event a commercialized feel, reminiscent of a home shopping network rather than a tech launch.
Technological Announcements:
Despite the presentation’s shortcomings, the Pixel 10 series introduced several noteworthy advancements:
– Pixel 10 Series: The lineup includes the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL, all powered by Google’s new Tensor G5 processor. Notably, the base Pixel 10 model now features a triple-camera setup, incorporating a telephoto lens for the first time. This addition enables 5x optical zoom and 20x digital zoom through Super Res Zoom. The Pro models have also received updates in processor performance and camera sensors. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/20/google-launches-the-pixel-10-series-base-model-now-has-three-cameras/?utm_source=openai))
– Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Google introduced its latest foldable device, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, featuring a new gearless hinge, camera improvements, and the Tensor G5 chip. The device boasts an 8-inch inner display and a 6.4-inch outer display with reduced bezels. It also offers IP68 water and dust resistance and supports Qi2 wireless charging. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/20/google-unveils-its-1799-pixel-10-pro-fold/?utm_source=openai))
– PixelSnap: Google launched PixelSnap, its version of magnetic accessory compatibility similar to Apple’s MagSafe. This feature allows users to attach wireless chargers, stands, grips, and more to the Pixel 10 series. Google also introduced its own PixelSnap cases and compatible accessories. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/20/google-launches-its-own-magsafe-with-pixelsnap/?utm_source=openai))
– Pixel Journal App: The new Pixel Journal app utilizes on-device AI models to prompt users to create journal entries. It can suggest writing prompts based on memories, past entries, or user goals, and allows the addition of photos, locations, and activities to entries. The app also provides insights into writing habits and offers security features like app locking. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/20/google-launches-a-new-pixel-journal-app/?utm_source=openai))
Audience Reception:
The event’s presentation style received criticism from viewers and tech enthusiasts. Many felt that the excessive use of celebrity endorsements and forced enthusiasm overshadowed the genuine technological advancements being introduced. Discussions on platforms like Reddit labeled the event as unwatchable, highlighting a disconnect between the event’s tone and the audience’s expectations.
Conclusion:
While Google’s Pixel 10 series and associated technologies represent significant strides in smartphone innovation, the presentation’s execution left much to be desired. The overreliance on celebrity appearances and exaggerated enthusiasm detracted from the substantive technological announcements. For future events, a more focused and authentic approach may better serve to highlight the company’s innovations and resonate with its audience.
