Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Review: A Powerhouse of AI and Refined Design

Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Review: A Powerhouse of AI and Refined Design

The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL stands as the largest and most premium model in Google’s 2024 smartphone lineup. Starting at $1,199, it combines elegant hardware, industry-leading artificial intelligence features, and exceptional camera capabilities. However, it faces stiff competition from the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra ($1,299.99), which remains the Editors’ Choice for flagship Android phones due to its superior battery life, included S Pen, and equally impressive hardware. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Review: A Powerhouse of AI and Refined Design

Design and Build

The Pixel 10 Pro XL retains a similar design language to its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, with subtle refinements. Key updates include a metallic Google “G” logo on the back, a polished camera bar bezel, and a more rounded frame for improved ergonomics. The device measures 6.41 x 3.02 x 0.33 inches and weighs 8.18 ounces, making it slightly heavier than previous models.

Constructed with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both front and back and a high-shine aluminum frame, the phone feels premium and durable. It also carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, matching competitors like Samsung and Apple.

The right side houses the power and volume buttons, while the bottom features dual speakers and a USB-C port (v3.2). Notably, the U.S. model is eSIM-only, with no physical SIM tray, headphone jack, or microSD slot.

Color options include Jade, Moonstone, Obsidian, and Porcelain.

Display

The Pixel 10 Pro XL boasts a 6.8-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2,992 x 1,344 pixels and a variable refresh rate of 1Hz–120Hz. It achieves a peak brightness of 3,300 nits (2,200 nits for HDR), outperforming rivals like the Galaxy S25 Ultra (2,600 nits) and iPhone 16 Pro Max (2,000 nits). This makes the screen exceptionally visible even in direct sunlight.

Performance and AI Capabilities

Powered by Google’s all-new Tensor G5 chip (fabricated by TSMC on a 3nm process), the phone promises 34% faster performance and improved efficiency. It comes with 16GB of RAM and storage options of 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB.

The Tensor G5 enables advanced on-device AI processing, reducing reliance on cloud-based computations and enhancing speed and privacy. Key AI-driven features include:

• Magic Cue: Proactively surfaces relevant information (e.g., flight details during a call).
• Voice Translate: Real-time, on-device translation during calls, supporting multiple languages.
• Camera Coach: Provides photography tips in real time.
• Auto Best Take: Automatically enhances group photos by selecting the best expressions.
• Pixel Studio: Allows for AI-powered photo edits using natural language commands.

While benchmark testing was largely blocked on pre-release units, real-world performance in gaming and multitasking proved smooth and responsive.

Battery and Charging

The device is equipped with a 5,200mAh battery, supporting 45W wired charging and 25W wireless charging. It also introduces Pixelsnap, Google’s magnetic accessory ecosystem (compatible with MagSafe).

In battery life tests, the Pixel 10 Pro XL lasted 12 hours and 35 minutes during continuous video playback at full brightness. While an improvement over its predecessor, it still trails the Galaxy S25 Ultra (14h 15m) and iPhone 16 Pro Max (22h 5m).

Charging times:

• 15 minutes → 27%
• 30 minutes → 54%
• Full charge → 1 hour 30 minutes

Camera System

The Pixel 10 Pro XL uses the same triple-camera setup as the Pixel 9 Pro:

• 50MP main sensor (f/1.68)
• 48MP ultra-wide sensor (f/1.7, 123° FoV)
• 48MP telephoto sensor (f/2.8, 5x optical zoom)

Images exhibit excellent detail, color accuracy, and improved dynamic range. New AI enhancements include:

• 100x Pro Res Zoom: AI-assisted zoom fills in details at extreme ranges (results can be mixed).
• Enhanced Night Sight: Pulls detail from dark environments effectively.
• Video Boost: Processes 4K60 videos in the cloud for improved quality (8K30 support available via cloud processing).

The 42MP front camera delivers high-quality selfies, with solid performance in low light and portrait mode.

Software and Connectivity

The phone runs Android 16 with Google’s Material 3 Expressive UI and promises seven years of OS and security updates. Connectivity includes:

• 5G (sub-6GHz, C-band, mmWave)
• Wi-Fi 7
• Bluetooth 6
• NFC

U.S. models support eSIM only, while international variants include a physical SIM tray (without mmWave).

Verdict

The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is a top-tier smartphone that excels in AI innovation, display quality, and camera performance. Its refined design and on-device AI features make it a compelling choice for users eager to experience cutting-edge technology.

However, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra retains the Editors’ Choice title due to its longer battery life, integrated S Pen, and equally strong hardware and cameras.

For those prioritizing AI capabilities and a pristine Android experience, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is an excellent alternative. For a more well-rounded flagship, the Galaxy S25 Ultra remains the top pick.