Google Pixel 10: New leaks point to August 20 launch, Samsung modem to stay, and gimbal-like OIS in camera

The Google Pixel 10 leaks river just doesn’t stop flowing. However, there has been a lot of confusion around the upcoming Pixel flagships too. We first assumed the Pixel 10 powered by the new TSMC-made Tensor G5 will be getting a new modem, but that might not be the case. Furthermore, a leak yesterday mentioned that the Pixel 10 will launch on August 13, however, it turns out that the date has been changed. So let’s dive into the details to set the record straight and also highlight an interesting development regarding the Pixel 10 lineup’s cameras.

Pixel 10 series set for August 20 unveiling

The Made by Google event, where the Pixel 10 lineup will be officially introduced, is now slated for August 20, 2025, instead of August 13 as claimed earlier. This information comes from Android Headlines, which initially reported an earlier date before sources clarified the schedule. The announcement will cover the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and the foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

Pre-orders for all models are expected to begin on the same day as the event, August 20. Devices will then start shipping to customers and become available in stores a week later, on August 28, 2025. This timing places the Pixel 10 launch about a week after last year’s Pixel 9 announcement. Some Pixel Superfans had received invitations for a sneak peek in June, leading to speculation of an earlier release. However, the August 20 date is now firm.

Samsung modem to remain in Tensor G5

Despite earlier rumors of a switch to a MediaTek modem, the Pixel 10 will likely continue to use a Samsung-made Exynos modem. As highlighted by to 9to5Google, a recent hands-on leak of a Pixel 10 Pro device revealed this detail. The device running DevCheck Pro reports a baseband labeled “g5400,” which the same as the Pixel 9’s modem. So it seems the Tensor G5 chipset, expected to be Google’s first fully custom design produced by TSMC, will reportedly integrate the same Exynos 5400 modem found in the Pixel 9 series.

The publication also pointed out that the same baseband label was also spotted in the thumbnail of a separate video which showed off the Pixel 10’s ringtones and system sounds.

This comes even though the Tensor G5 is moving away from Samsung for its core chip production. While an Exynos modem was a past contributor to heating issues in earlier Pixel phones, the Exynos 5400 in the Pixel 9 series largely improved these concerns. The switch to TSMC for the Tensor G5 is also expected to boost overall efficiency. This should compensate for any potential benefits a MediaTek modem might have offered.

Camera set to feature gimbal-like stabilization

In exciting news for photography enthusiasts, the Pixel 10 series is expected to debut significantly upgraded image stabilization. Android Headlines reports this new system will offer “gimbal-level” stabilization. This means users could achieve incredibly smooth video footage without needing additional hardware like a professional gimbal.

While the core camera sensors might largely remain similar to the Pixel 9, with the base model potentially gaining a telephoto lens, the enhanced stabilization is a major advancement. Google Pixels have always been strong in still photography. However, video recording has been an area where they sometimes lagged behind competitors. This new stabilization technology, combined with features like Video Boost, could significantly elevate the Pixel 10’s video capabilities. The publication notes that the feature will be available across the entire Pixel 10 lineup.