Google’s Pixel lineup has long been praised for its computational photography prowess, but one glaring omission in its base models has been the lack of a dedicated telephoto lens—until now. Freshly leaked renders of the Pixel 10, shared by renowned leaker @OnLeaks and detailed in a report by Android Headlines, reveal that the tech giant is finally bringing optical zoom capabilities to its non-Pro flagship.
A Long-Awaited Upgrade
According to the renders, the standard Pixel 10 will sport a triple-camera setup for the first time, joining the Pro model in offering wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses. Historically, Google reserved the telephoto camera for its Pro devices, positioning the base Pixel as a more affordable alternative. This move signals a strategic shift, likely aimed at keeping pace with competitors like Apple and Samsung, whose base iPhones and Galaxy S-series phones have included telephoto lenses for years.
The leaked images, created in partnership with GSMGoTech based on prototype schematics, show a redesigned camera visor with three distinct cutouts. Sources suggest the telephoto sensor will support 3x optical zoom, a significant leap over the digital zoom used in previous base Pixels. While specs remain unconfirmed, rumors point to a 48MP primary sensor paired with a 12MP ultrawide and a 64MP telephoto lens optimized for low-light performance.
Design Tweaks and Flat Edges
Beyond the camera upgrade, the Pixel 10 appears to borrow design cues from recent iPhone models, featuring flat aluminum edges and a matte glass back. The overall footprint is slightly smaller than the Pixel 9, with thinner bezels around the 6.2-inch OLED display. Notably, the camera visor now spans the entire width of the device, giving it a more symmetrical look.
What About the Pixel 10 Pro?
While the base model steals the spotlight this year, the Pixel 10 Pro isn’t left behind. Leaks hint at a larger 6.7-inch screen, a periscope telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a titanium frame option. The Pro is also expected to debut Google’s next-gen Tensor G5 chip, which promises major AI-driven improvements to photo and video processing.
Accessories and Availability
As excitement builds, early adopters can already browse third-party cases and screen protectors on Amazon to gear up for the launch. Google typically unveils its Pixel flagships in October, with preorders going live shortly after. Pricing remains speculative, but insiders suggest the base Pixel 10 could start at $799, undercutting rivals while delivering flagship-tier camera versatility.
Why It Matters
Adding a telephoto lens to the standard Pixel 10 democratizes high-quality zoom, a feature previously reserved for premium buyers. Combined with Google’s industry-leading AI enhancements—like Night Sight and Magic Eraser—this could make the Pixel 10 the most compelling Android camera phone of 2025. As one analyst quipped, “Google isn’t just playing catch-up; they’re redefining what a mid-tier flagship can do.”
With official details still under wraps, the leaks offer a tantalizing glimpse into Google’s ambitious plans. If the renders hold true, the Pixel 10 might just be the phone to beat this fall.
