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  • Pixel 6
  • Pixel 6 Pro
 
Diagrams of the Pixel 6 (L) and Pixel 6 Pro (R)
BrandGoogle
ManufacturerFoxconn
TypePhablet
SloganFor All You Are[1]
SeriesPixel
First releasedOctober 28, 2021; 3 years ago (2021-10-28)
Availability by region
October 2021
  • Australia
  • Canada
  • France
  • Germany
  • Ireland
  • Japan
  • Taiwan
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
February 2022
  • Italy
  • Singapore
  • Spain
DiscontinuedYes
Units sold3.75 million (as of October 2022)
PredecessorPixel 5
SuccessorPixel 7
RelatedPixel 6a
Compatible networks
Form factorSlate
Dimensions
  • Pixel 6:
    • H: 6.2 in (158.6 mm)
    • W: 2.9 in (74.8 mm)
    • D: 0.4 in (8.9 mm)
  • Pixel 6 Pro:
    • H: 6.5 in (163.9 mm)
    • W: 3.0 in (75.9 mm)
    • D: 0.4 in (8.9 mm)
Weight
  • Pixel 6: 7.30 oz (207 g)
  • Pixel 6 Pro: 7.41 oz (210 g)
Operating systemAndroid 12
Upgradable to Android 16
System-on-chipGoogle Tensor
CPUOcta-core (2x2.8 GHz Cortex-X1 & 2x2.25 GHz Cortex-A76 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)[2]
GPUMali-G78 MP20[3]
ModemSamsung Exynos 5123b
Memory
  • Pixel 6: 8 GB LPDDR5
  • Pixel 6 Pro: 12 GB LPDDR5
Storage
  • Pixel 6:
  • 128 or 256 GB UFS 3.1
  • Pixel 6 Pro:
  • 128, 256, or 512 GB UFS 3.1
SIMNano SIM and eSIM
Battery
  • Pixel 6: 4614 mAh
  • Pixel 6 Pro: 5003 mAh
Charging
  • Pixel 6:
  • 21 W fast charging
  • 21 W Qi wireless charging
  • Pixel 6 Pro:
  • 23 W fast charging
  • 23 W Qi wireless charging
  • Both:
  • Reverse wireless charging
Rear camera
  • Both:
  • 50 MP, f/1.85, 82˚ field of view (wide), 1.2 μm
  • 12 MP, f/2.2, 114˚ field of view (ultrawide), 1.25 μm
  • 4K video at 30 or 60 FPS
  • 1080p video at 30 or 60 FPS
  • Pixel 6 Pro:
  • 48 MP, f/3.5, 23.5˚ field of view (telephoto), 0.8 μm, 4× optical zoom
Front camera
  • Pixel 6:
  • 8 MP, f/2.0, 84˚ field of view (wide), 1.12 μm
  • 1080p video at 30 FPS
  • Pixel 6 Pro:
  • 11.1 MP, f/2.2, 94˚ field of view (ultrawide), 1.22 μm
  • 4K video at 30 FPS
  • 1080p video at 30 or 60 FPS
Display
Sound
Connectivity
Data inputs
Water resistanceIP68
Model
  • Pixel 6: GB7N6, G9S9B
  • Pixel 6 Pro: GLUOG, G8VOU
Codename
  • Pixel 6: Oriole[4]
  • Pixel 6 Pro: Raven[4]
Hearing aid compatibility
  • Pixel 6: M3, T3
  • Pixel 6 Pro: M3, T4
Made inChina
Other
Website
References[5][6]

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are a pair of Android phablet smartphones designed, developed, and marketed by Google as part of the Google Pixel product line. They collectively serve as the successor to the Pixel 5. The phones were first previewed in August 2021, confirming reports that they would be powered by a custom system-on-chip named Google Tensor. The cameras are housed in a horizontal bar on the back, while the front features a hole-punch display notch in the center. They shipped with Android 12, with Google announcing numerous artificial intelligence and ambient computing features during the phones' launch event.

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro were officially announced on October 19, 2021, at the Pixel Fall Launch event, and were released in the United States on October 28, following an extensive marketing campaign. They received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its Tensor chip, cameras, performance, design, and price, though the fingerprint sensor and battery life received mixed reactions. The phones became Google's fastest-selling Pixel devices, allowing the company to become the fifth-largest smartphone manufacturer in North America and the United Kingdom during the first quarter of 2022. They were succeeded by the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro in 2022.

History

[edit]

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro were previewed by Google on August 2, 2021, confirming the phones' new designs and the introduction of its custom Tensor system-on-chip (SoC).[7][8] Previous Pixel devices had used Qualcomm Snapdragon chips,[9] with Google having begun developing its own chips codenamed Whitechapel as early as April 2016.[10][11] The devices were approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in September.[12] Google officially announced the phones on October 19, 2021, at the Pixel Fall Launch event,[13][14] and they became available in nine countries on October 28.[15][16] The phones were manufactured by Foxconn,[17] and were originally intended to be produced in Vietnam before shifting back to China due to the Chinese government's stringent border controls imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.[18] Google doubled the production of its phones compared to last year in attempt to boost its market share, manufacturing approximately seven million devices.[19] The phones were not made available in India at launch due to supply chain issues.[20]

During the launch event, Google also announced the phones' official cases, which became available for pre-order on the same day with three color options for the Pixel 6 and four color options for the Pixel 6 Pro,[21] as well as the second-generation Pixel Stand wireless charger, which went on sale on November 18 and began shipping on December 13.[22][23] Pre-orders for the phones began on the same day as the announcement,[24] with shipping commencing on October 25.[25] The Google Store did not offer any discounts for the devices on Black Friday, a departure from prior years.[26] In February 2022, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro became available in Italy and Spain in "limited quantities",[27] with a limited launch in Singapore two weeks later.[28]

Specifications

[edit]

Design

[edit]

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro both feature a unique design that is visually distinct from previous-generation Pixel phones, including a large camera bar and two-tone color scheme on the back.[29] The front of both phones also feature a centered hole-punch display notch.[7] They are each available in three colors:[30]

Color options for the Pixel 6 series
Pixel 6 Pixel 6 Pro
Diagram of a Pixel 6 smartphone in orange. Diagram of a Pixel 6 smartphone in black. Diagram of a Pixel 6 smartphone in green. Diagram of a Pixel 6 smartphone in gray. Diagram of a Pixel 6 smartphone in gold. Diagram of a Pixel 6 smartphone in black.
Kinda Coral Stormy Black Sorta Seafoam Cloudy White Sorta Sunny Stormy Black

Hardware

[edit]

The Pixel 6 has a 6.4 in (163 mm) FHD+ 1080p OLED display at 411 ppi with a 2400 × 1080 pixel resolution and a 20:9 aspect ratio,[5] while the Pixel 6 Pro has a 6.7 in (170 mm) QHD+ 1440p LTPO OLED curved edges display at 512 ppi with a 3120 × 1440 pixel resolution and a 19.5:9 aspect ratio.[6][31] Both displays have HDR10+ support; the Pixel 6 has a 90 Hz refresh rate and the Pixel 6 Pro has a 120 Hz variable refresh rate. Both phones contain a 50 MP wide rear camera and a 12 MP ultrawide rear camera, with the Pixel 6 Pro featuring an additional 48 MP with 4× optical zoom telephoto rear camera. The front camera on the Pixel 6 contains an 8 MP wide lens, while the one on the Pixel 6 Pro contains an 11.1 MP ultrawide lens.[32] The new Tensor chip also brought Live HDR+ to video as well as enhancements to the Night Sight and Super Res Zoom features on the devices.[33]

The Pixel 6 has a 4614 mAh battery, while the Pixel 6 Pro has a 5003 mAh battery. Both phones support fast charging,[34] Qi wireless charging, as well as reverse wireless charging.[5][6] The Pixel 6 is available in 128 or 256 GB of storage and 8 GB of RAM, and the Pixel 6 Pro is available in 128, 256, or 512 GB of storage and 12 GB of RAM. In addition to the Tensor chip, both phones are also equipped with the Titan M2 security module, which is based on the RISC-V open standard, along with an under-display optical fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and Gorilla Glass Victus.[35][36] In April 2022, 9to5Google reported that the Pixel 6 Pro was originally planning to be launched with a Face Unlock facial recognition feature, similar to that of the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL's but solely relying on the phone's front camera rather than on Project Soli radar technology; the feature was canceled for unknown reasons shortly prior to the launch event.[37][38]

Software

[edit]

As with prior generations of the Pixel phone, Google placed heavy emphasis on artificial intelligence and ambient computing capabilities during the Pixel Fall Launch event, debuting features such as Magic Eraser, Face Unblur, Motion Mode, Real Tone, Direct My Call, Wait Times, and Live Translate.[39][32][40] Additionally, Assistant voice typing and grammar correction serve as exclusive features on the Pixel 6 series,[41][42] while Google Pay's digital car key feature launched first on the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S21 in November.[43] Material You, a more personalized variant of Google's Material Design design language, was also a major focus in Google's marketing efforts.[44]

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro shipped with Android 12 at launch,[45] coinciding with the stable release of Android 12 on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP),[46][47] along with version 8.4 of the Google Camera app.[48] It was originally set to receive three years of major OS upgrades and five years of security updates, but the former was later increased to five years, with support extending to 2026.[45][49] Continuing the Pixel 5a's trend, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro did not come with unlimited photo storage in "high quality" on Google Photos, being the second Pixel phone not to include the offer.[50][51] Concurrently with the Pixel Fall Launch event, Android 12 became available on older Pixel phones, while the Security Hub and Privacy Dashboard were introduced.[52][53] Google also announced Pixel Pass, a subscription bundle similar to Apple One and Xbox All-Access which bundles the Pixel 6 series with Google One, YouTube Premium, YouTube Music Premium, Google Play Pass, and an extended warranty;[54] the service was discontinued two years later, ahead of the launch of the Pixel 8.[55]

Marketing

[edit]

Google kickstarted the phones' marketing campaign early, beginning with online commercials,[56] billboards in major cities,[57][58] and magazine advertisements in September 2021.[59] Pixel 6-themed potato chips were made available in Japan.[60] Additionally, the company partnered with Channel 4,[61] the NBA,[62] and Snapchat to promote the phones.[63] Models of the phones were also available on display at the Google Store Chelsea in New York City prior to the launch event.[64] Google CFO Ruth Porat had previously revealed during parent company Alphabet's quarterly earnings investor call in August that the company was planning to substantially increase its marketing and sales expenses in anticipation for the phones' launch, while Google hardware chief Rick Osterloh declared their intention to "invest in marketing".[7]

In November 2021, it was announced that actor Simu Liu, who portrays Shang-Chi in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) media franchise, would serve as the Pixel 6's brand ambassador in Canada,[65] days after Liu shot a video as part of Google TV's "Watch with Me" marketing campaign.[66] NBA athletes Giannis Antetokounmpo and Magic Johnson also serve as brand ambassadors for the phones in the U.S.,[67][68] with tennis player Leylah Fernandez doing the same in Canada.[69][70] In February 2022, Google released a commercial titled "Seen on Pixel" which advertised the Pixel 6's Real Tone feature, ahead of its airing during Super Bowl LVI. It featured a then-unreleased song by Lizzo entitled "If You Love Me".[71] Directed by Joshua Kissi and created in collaboration with advertising agency Gut Miami,[72] the 60-second advertisement marked the company's first Pixel-related Super Bowl spot,[73] and was noted by GLAAD as the only Super Bowl LVI commercial featuring LGBTQ people.[74] Other promotions include Pixel 6 socks and a Tensor sticker for "Pixel Superfans",[75] as well as a Pixel 6-themed tarot deck for #TeamPixel members ahead of Christmas in 2021.[76]

Reception

[edit]

Critical response

[edit]

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro received much attention prior to its launch. Ben Schoon of 9to5Google highlighted the potential of the new Tensor chip, finding Google's premature reveal of the devices to be a "show of confidence" in the Pixel 6 series.[77] Michael L. Hicks of Android Central believed that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro could appeal to iPhone users, urging Google to rethink its marketing strategy,[78] while Sareena Dayaram of CNET opined that the phones were "more exciting" than Apple's iPhone 13.[79] Commentators also noted the increased anticipation of the Pixel 6 series in comparison to earlier generations of the Pixel smartphone line, attributing this to its early reveal as well as the announcement of the Tensor chip.[80][81]

Both phones received generally positive reviews following their release. Julian Chokkattu of Wired and Dan Seifert of The Verge praised their performance, cameras, and battery life, but criticized the speed of the fingerprint scanner and the large sizes of both models.[82][83] On the contrary, Patrick Holland and Andrew Laxon of CNET took issue with the phones' battery life, though they both praised the phones' camera and design.[84][85] Lanxon also highlighted the premium specifications of the Pixel 6 Pro, including the triple-camera setup, and believed it to be on par with the iPhone 13 and Samsung's Galaxy S21.[86] Similarly, Jacon Krol of CNN Underscored and Sam Rutherford of Gizmodo appreciated the phones' design and cameras, with Krol declaring them "the best Android phones you can buy", though Rutherford also noted the slow fingerprint sensor and lack of a headphone jack.[87][88] Philip Michaels and Jordan Palmer of Tom's Guide praised the phones' affordable pricing, the Tensor chip, and the debut of Android 12, but criticized the fingerprint scanner and battery life.[89][90] Writing for TechRadar, David Lumb and James Peckham commended the phones' design, build, and cameras but found the battery life and storage subpar.[91][92] Marques Brownlee praised the phones' competitive pricing, selfie cameras, and software features, but also noted the slow fingerprint sensor and poor battery life.[93]

Commercial reception

[edit]

Google accommodated the increased interest for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro by signing partnership agreements with more than 45 wireless carriers and retailers across nine countries.[94] Shortly after the phones became available for pre-order, both the online Google Store and the Google Fi store suffered temporary outages.[95] Google attributed delayed shipping times for the Pro model to unexpectedly high demand on the Google Store,[96][97] with other carriers also facing shipping delays.[98]

In December 2021, a report indicated that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro experienced greater carrier sales numbers during its first month of availability in comparison to prior models,[99] while smartphone accessory manufacturer Bellroy announced that its phone cases for the Pixel 6 series were its most popular products of all time.[100] During Alphabet's quarterly earnings investor call in February 2022, Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai touted "record" sales numbers for the company's 2021 Pixel phones, especially the Pixel 6 series;[101] however, a later study conducted by Counterpoint Research revealed that the Pixel line may have only experienced moderate year-over-year growth in comparison to the Pixel 5.[102] In March, the International Data Corporation (IDC) analyzed that the introduction of the Tensor chip on the Pixel 6 series had been a factor in allowing MediaTek to overtake Qualcomm as the most popular Android chip manufacturer in the U.S., though the latter disputed the report.[103] Another report published by Counterpoint Research the same month revealed that Tensor made up approximately one to two percent of the high-end system-on-chip market.[104]

In April 2022, a report from market research firm Wave7 claimed that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro had experienced low carrier sales, with Google offering unusually high "kickbacks to salespeople" and Verizon finding the most success with the phones.[105] Pichai stated that the Pixel 6 series were the fastest-selling Pixel devices ever,[106] with the company further revealing during the 2022 Google I/O keynote on May 11 that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro had been sold more than the Pixel 4 and Pixel 5 combined.[107] Data from the IDC in October 2022 revealed that Google had sold approximately 3.75 million units of the Pixel 6 series globally by then.[108] The Pixel 6 series was instrumental in allowing Google's smartphone market share in North America to increase by 380% during the first quarter of 2022, becoming the fifth-largest smartphone manufacturer in both North America and the United Kingdom for the first time;[109][110] the next quarter, Pixel sales increased by 230% in North America, acquiring 2% of the smartphone market on the continent.[111]

Future

[edit]
Main articles: Pixel 7 and Pixel 6a

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro were succeeded by the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro in October 2022,[112] with the phones first previewed during the 2022 I/O keynote. They were powered by the second-generation Tensor chip and shipped with Android 13.[113][114] At I/O, Google also announced the Pixel 6a, a mid-range variant of the Pixel 6 series, which launched in July.[115]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Pixel 6

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The 6 is a flagship Android smartphone developed and manufactured by , announced on October 19, 2021, and released worldwide on October 28, 2021. It serves as the base model in a duo alongside the larger Pixel 6 Pro, introducing Google's first custom-designed system-on-chip (SoC), the Tensor processor, which prioritizes (AI) and tasks over raw performance. Priced starting at $599, the Pixel 6 emphasizes computational photography, seamless integration with services, and a stock Android experience, positioning it as a direct competitor to premium devices from Apple and . The Pixel 6 features a distinctive horizontal camera bar on the rear, housing a dual-camera system with a 50 MP main sensor (f/1.9, 1/1.31", dual pixel PDAF, OIS) and a 12 MP ultrawide lens (f/2.2, 114° field of view), enabling advanced features like Magic Eraser for photo editing, Real Tone for accurate skin representation, and Super Res Zoom up to 8x. Its 6.4-inch display offers a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution, 90 Hz adaptive , and support, protected by Corning Victus, while the device measures 158.6 x 74.8 x 8.9 mm, weighs 207 g, and carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Powered by the 5 nm SoC (octa-core CPU with 2x Cortex-X1 at 2.8 GHz, Mali-G78 MP20 GPU) paired with 8 GB LPDDR5 RAM and 128 GB or 256 GB UFS 3.1 storage (non-expandable), it includes a Titan M2 security chip for enhanced data protection. On the software front, the Pixel 6 launched with and has received updates through Android 16 as of 2025, with extending its policy to provide five years of major OS upgrades and security patches until October 2026. This support enables ongoing AI-driven functionalities such as Live Translate for real-time conversations, Face Unlock via the front 8 MP camera, and adaptive battery optimization. The phone's 4614 mAh battery supports 30W wired charging (reaching 50% in 30 minutes), 21W wireless charging via Pixel Stand, and reverse wireless charging, though it lacks a charger in the box. Notable for its role in advancing on-device AI, the Pixel 6 series received for camera quality and software purity but faced some criticism for initial Tensor-related heating and performance issues, which were addressed in subsequent updates. Available in colors like Stormy Black, Kinda Coral, and Sorta Seafoam, it helped capture a larger share of the premium market.

Development and release

Announcement and unveiling

Google initiated the teaser campaign for the Pixel 6 on August 2, 2021, with a blog post revealing the distinctive horizontal camera bar on the back panel. This marked the beginning of a series of cryptic hints shared across Google's platforms, building anticipation without disclosing full specifications or release dates. The campaign emphasized the Pixel 6's unique design and hinted at significant hardware innovations, positioning it as a departure from previous models. The official unveiling occurred during a Google hardware event on October 19, 2021, where the Pixel 6 was introduced alongside its larger sibling, the Pixel 6 Pro. The event, streamed live, highlighted the devices as Google's first smartphones to feature a custom-designed system-on-chip (SoC), the , which was presented as a major step in optimizing performance for AI-driven features and machine learning tasks tailored to the Pixel ecosystem. This introduction underscored Google's ambition to reduce reliance on third-party processors like Qualcomm's Snapdragon series used in prior Pixels. Pricing was announced at the event, with the base Pixel 6 starting at $599 for 128GB storage, while the Pixel 6 Pro began at $899 for 128GB, targeting a competitive mid-to-premium segment against rivals like the and S21. Pre-orders opened immediately following the announcement on October 19, 2021, with initial availability set for October 28, 2021, in select markets including the , , and parts of . The rapid pre-order window reflected Google's strategy to capitalize on early buzz generated by the Tensor chip and refreshed design.

Production and launch

The Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro were assembled primarily by in facilities located in . Following their announcement on October 19, 2021, the Pixel 6 series became available for purchase starting October 28, 2021, initially in select markets including the , , , , , , , , and . Pre-orders began immediately after the reveal, with availability through Google's online store, major carriers, and retailers in those regions. Availability expanded to additional European and Asian markets in the months following the initial rollout, though the devices were not officially launched in regions like . The launch was impacted by the ongoing global , which led to supply constraints and frequent out-of-stock situations for the Pixel 6 series in late , particularly during the holiday season. This crisis, exacerbated by pandemic-related disruptions in manufacturing and , affected production worldwide and delayed fulfillment for many consumers.

Design and features

Build and aesthetics

The Pixel 6 series introduced a bold redesign characterized by the iconic horizontal camera bar that spans the full width of the rear panel, housing the camera modules and serving as a signature aesthetic element that distinguishes it from prior generations. This bar is seamlessly integrated into the aluminum frame, contributing to a modern, premium look while protecting the optics. The overall build emphasizes durability and elegance, with both models featuring an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing submersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. The standard Pixel 6 measures 158.6 x 74.8 x 8.9 mm and weighs 207 g, offering a compact yet substantial feel in the hand. In contrast, the Pixel 6 Pro is taller and wider at 163.9 x 75.9 x 8.9 mm and 210 g, accommodating its larger display without significantly increasing thickness. Both devices utilize high-end materials for protection: the front is covered in Gorilla Glass Victus for superior scratch and drop resistance, while the back employs Gorilla Glass 6 on the Pixel 6 and Gorilla Glass Victus on the Pro, paired with a polished aluminum frame. These components provide a robust construction capable of withstanding everyday wear. Aesthetic choices include vibrant, nature-inspired color options that enhance the series' visual appeal. The Pixel 6 is available in Stormy Black, Kinda Coral, and Sorta Seafoam, with the latter two featuring subtle gradients for a dynamic effect. The Pixel 6 Pro expands on this with Cloudy White, Stormy Black, and Sorta Sunny, offering a warmer, sandy tone in the latter. The rear glass incorporates a unique matte texture that minimizes fingerprint smudges, maintaining a clean appearance even without a case.

Display and ergonomics

The Pixel 6 features a 6.4-inch display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 90 Hz , supporting HDR10+ for enhanced color and contrast in compatible content. The screen achieves a peak brightness of up to 800 nits, aiding visibility in bright environments. In contrast, the Pixel 6 Pro employs a larger 6.7-inch LTPO panel with a higher resolution of 1440 x 3120 pixels and an adaptive 120 Hz , which dynamically adjusts between 10 Hz and 120 Hz to optimize battery efficiency while maintaining smooth scrolling and animations; it also supports HDR10+. This display reaches a peak brightness of up to 1000 nits, providing superior performance for outdoor use and HDR media consumption. Both models incorporate an under-display optical fingerprint sensor for secure and convenient unlocking, positioned beneath the screen for a seamless front-facing experience. They also support face unlock via the front-facing camera, enabling quick access though it lacks advanced 3D depth mapping for high-security scenarios. Ergonomically, the devices feature a side-mounted power button that doubles as the fingerprint sensor, located on the right edge for easy one-handed access, alongside a volume rocker positioned just above it to facilitate intuitive control during use. This layout contributes to comfortable handling, particularly given the phones' slim profiles and curved that enhance grip without compromising the flat display surface.

Hardware specifications

Processor and performance

The Google Pixel 6 is powered by the custom system-on-chip (SoC), fabricated on a by . This SoC features an octa-core CPU configuration consisting of two high-performance cores clocked at 2.8 GHz, two mid-range cores at 2.25 GHz, and four efficiency-focused cores at 1.8 GHz. The GPU is an Arm Mali-G78 MP20, designed to handle graphics-intensive tasks while integrating tightly with Google's AI hardware. The Pixel 6 includes 8 GB of LPDDR5 RAM, while the Pixel 6 Pro variant upgrades to 12 GB to support more demanding multitasking and AI workloads. Storage options are 128 GB or 256 GB using UFS 3.1 flash memory, with no support for microSD expansion, emphasizing Google's focus on integrated, high-speed internal storage for seamless app performance. In benchmarks, the Tensor SoC delivers competitive results, with 6 scores averaging around 1,360 for single-core performance and 3,100 for multi-core, placing it on par with contemporary flagships like the Snapdragon 888 in burst scenarios. However, under prolonged loads such as gaming or video encoding, the chip experiences notable thermal throttling, reducing clock speeds by up to 50% to manage heat, which impacts sustained performance compared to rivals with more efficient cooling. The Tensor SoC's dedicated (TPU) enables advanced on-device AI capabilities, such as real-time voice recognition and transcription without relying on cloud processing, enhancing privacy and responsiveness in features like Live Translate and offline speech-to-text. This hardware-accelerated ML processing allows for efficient handling of tasks directly on the device, contributing to the Pixel 6's emphasis on AI-driven user experiences.

Camera system

The Pixel 6 features a dual rear camera system consisting of a 50-megapixel with an f/1.9 , 1/1.31-inch sensor size, 1.2-micrometer pixel pitch, dual pixel phase detection autofocus (PDAF), and optical (OIS). The secondary camera is a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens with an f/2.2 and 114-degree (FOV). This setup is powered by a custom Google-designed primary sensor based on the GN1, enabling improved low-light performance by capturing up to 150% more light compared to the Pixel 5. The Pixel 6 Pro upgrades to a triple rear camera array, retaining the same 50-megapixel wide-angle primary camera as the but adding a 48-megapixel with an , 4x optical zoom, PDAF, and OIS, utilizing a IMX598 sensor. The ultrawide camera matches the Pixel 6 at 12 megapixels with and 114-degree FOV. Both models include a laser autofocus sensor and dual-LED flash for enhanced precision and illumination. For selfies, the Pixel 6 employs an 8-megapixel with f/2.0 and 84-degree FOV, while the Pixel 6 Pro uses an 11.1-megapixel with f/2.2 and 94-degree FOV. Video recording on both devices supports up to at 60 frames per second (fps) with OIS and electronic (EIS), alongside 1080p at 240 fps for slow-motion capture. Core capabilities, enhanced by the Tensor chip, include Night Sight for low-light shots and Magic Eraser for object removal in photos.

Battery and charging

The Google Pixel 6 is equipped with a 4614 mAh lithium-ion battery, while the Pixel 6 Pro features a larger 5003 mAh battery. Google claims these batteries deliver over 24 hours of typical mixed-use endurance, extending up to 72 hours with Extreme Battery Saver mode activated. In real-world testing, the Pixel 6 achieves approximately 4 hours of active screen-on time per day under moderate usage conditions, providing over 48 hours of autonomy, with the Pro model performing similarly due to its higher-resolution display offsetting the capacity advantage. For wired charging, both models support up to 30W fast charging via USB Power Delivery 3.0, enabling approximately 50% charge in 30 minutes when using a compatible 30W adapter, though the adapter is not included in the box. Actual peak wired speeds reach 21W on the Pixel 6 and 23W on the Pro, resulting in full charges in about 90 to 110 minutes from empty. Wireless charging is supported at up to 21W on the Pixel 6 and 23W on the Pro when using the official Pixel Stand charger, while standard Qi-certified pads deliver up to 12W. Both devices also offer reverse wireless charging at up to 4.5W, allowing them to power Qi-compatible accessories like earbuds via the Battery Share feature.

Software and updates

Initial software

The Google Pixel 6 launched with as its operating system, marking the debut of several key platform enhancements on the device. A prominent feature was Material You theming, which dynamically generates color palettes from the user's wallpaper to create a personalized interface across system elements like icons, widgets, and notifications. Pixel-exclusive software capabilities highlighted the device's AI-driven functionalities, powered by the Tensor chip. These included Live Translate, enabling real-time, on-device translation of speech and text in over 50 languages during calls, messages, or camera use; Call Screen, where answers unknown calls to filter spam; Now Playing, which passively identifies songs playing nearby via ambient listening; and Hold for Me, allowing the Assistant to wait on hold during customer service calls and alert the user when a human representative is available. Security features were bolstered by the integrated Titan M2 chip, a custom security module that provided hardware-backed encryption, secure storage of cryptographic keys through Android StrongBox, and protection against physical attacks on sensitive data like and payment information. The Pixel 6 delivered a bloatware-free pure Android experience, free from third-party pre-installed apps, which contributed to its fluid performance and straightforward user interface. Upon release, the device encountered initial software bugs, particularly connectivity problems affecting cellular signals, Wi-Fi stability, and pairing, which led to dropped connections and required or updates for resolution.

Update history and support

The Google Pixel 6 series, launched in October 2021, was initially promised three years of major Android OS updates and five years of updates, extending OS support until at least October 2024 and security patches until October 2026. In December 2024, announced an extension of the OS update policy for the Pixel 6 series, increasing it to five years of both major Android version updates and security patches from launch, now running until October 2026. The device received its first major update to in August 2022, introducing enhanced privacy controls and themed icons. This was followed by in October 2023, which added improved customization options like tweaks, and Android 15 in October 2024, focusing on satellite connectivity and partial screen sharing. Android 16 arrived in June 2025, bringing refinements to AI-driven features such as improved on-device processing for the Gemini assistant. With the extension, the Pixel 6 is eligible for Android 17 in 2026. As of late 2025, has adopted a quarterly update cadence for the Pixel 6 series, providing patches as needed rather than monthly, while maintaining full support until October 2026. The Pixel 6 series did not receive a dedicated October 2025 update, as did not issue new patches for that month. Similarly, no new patches were issued in November 2025, with protections carried over from the September 2025 update. Throughout its support lifecycle, cumulative software updates have targeted persistent hardware-related concerns, including modem connectivity problems stemming from the Exynos 5123 chip and associated overheating during 5G usage. For instance, the May 2023 security patch included fixes for overheating and battery drain exacerbated by prior updates, while subsequent patches in 2024 and 2025 incorporated thermal management improvements to mitigate excessive heat during network-intensive tasks. As support concludes in October 2026, Pixel 6 owners will no longer receive OS upgrades or patches, leaving devices exposed to emerging vulnerabilities without mitigations, though core functionality will persist. This end-of-life phase implies a need for users to consider upgrading to maintain , especially for sensitive activities like banking or .

Marketing and variants

Promotional campaigns

Google launched the Pixel 6 series with a multifaceted promotional strategy that highlighted its innovative AI capabilities powered by the Tensor chip and advanced camera features, including the Real Tone technology for accurate skin tone representation. The campaign featured a Super Bowl commercial starring singer Lizzo, which emphasized the phone's ability to capture diverse skin tones in photos and videos through Real Tone, aiming to address historical biases in mobile photography. This ad, aired during Super Bowl LVI in February 2022, was part of a broader effort to position the Pixel 6 as an inclusive device focused on AI-driven enhancements like Live Translate for real-time language interpretation. Celebrity endorsements played a key role in the promotions, with Canadian actor serving as a brand ambassador in targeted ads that showcased everyday user scenarios, such as multilingual conversations and photo editing. Liu appeared in videos and TV spots, including a behind-the-scenes look at the campaign's creation, which stressed the Pixel 6's accessibility features for diverse users. Similarly, basketball star partnered with in 2021 ads to demonstrate the camera's performance in dynamic situations, while tennis player featured in Quebec-specific promotions highlighting the device's speed and AI smarts. These ads often depicted real-user experiences, like family gatherings or travel, to illustrate features such as Magic Eraser for photo editing and Face Unlock security. To expand reach, forged partnerships with major U.S. carriers including Verizon and , offering bundling deals that included trade-in credits and plan incentives to drive adoption. Verizon provided up to $700 off the Pixel 6 with an eligible trade-in on new lines, while bundled the device with unlimited plans for additional savings, such as $200 off for plan sign-ups. These collaborations were promoted through carrier websites and in-store displays, emphasizing the Pixel 6's 5G compatibility and long-term software support as value-adds for subscribers. Black Friday promotions in 2021 further boosted visibility, with discounts tailored to holiday shoppers. offered up to 50% off the Pixel 6 through monthly installments without requiring a trade-in, effectively reducing the price to $349 from $699, while Verizon and other retailers provided $200 instant savings on unlimited plans bundled with the phone. These deals were advertised via email blasts and retailer sites, focusing on the device's camera and battery life to appeal to gift buyers. Pre-launch hype was built through social media teasers on platforms like and , where shared short videos and images previewing the Pixel 6's design and features starting in early September 2021. The official , posted on the Made by accounts, depicted the phone in real-world use with colorful backgrounds and widgets, generating buzz ahead of the announcement event. These posts, including stories showing the horizontal camera bar, encouraged user engagement and speculation about AI innovations.

Model variants

The Pixel 6 series includes the standard Pixel 6, the premium Pixel 6 Pro, and the mid-range Pixel 6a, each targeting different segments of the market while sharing the Google Tensor processor as a common platform. These models differ in display size and resolution, camera configurations, storage options, and pricing to accommodate varying user needs. The base Pixel 6 features a 6.4-inch display with Full HD+ resolution and a 90 Hz , paired with a dual rear camera system consisting of a 50 MP main and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. It offers 128 GB or 256 GB internal storage options, with 8 GB of RAM. In contrast, the Pixel 6 Pro provides enhanced specifications for power users, including a larger 6.7-inch LTPO display with QHD+ resolution and a 120 Hz adaptive , along with a triple rear camera setup that adds a 48 MP to the 50 MP main and 12 MP ultrawide sensors. Storage variants include 128 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB, supported by 12 GB of RAM. The Pixel 6a serves as a more affordable successor in the lineup, launched in May 2022 with a 6.1-inch display featuring Full HD+ resolution and a 60 Hz refresh rate. It retains the Tensor chip but uses a dual rear camera with a 12.2 MP main sensor and 12 MP ultrawide, available only in 128 GB storage with 6 GB RAM, and includes an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance at a starting price of $449.
ModelDisplayRear CamerasStorage OptionsKey Notes
Pixel 66.4" OLED, FHD+, 90 Hz50 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide128/256 GBBase model
Pixel 6 Pro6.7" LTPO OLED, QHD+, 120 Hz50 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide + 48 MP telephoto128/256/512 GBPremium variant
Pixel 6a6.1" OLED, FHD+, 60 Hz12.2 MP main + 12 MP ultrawide128 GB, IP67, $449 launch
Regional variants of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro primarily differ in 5G connectivity; U.S. models support both mmWave and sub-6 GHz bands for broader compatibility with domestic carriers like Verizon and , whereas international versions are limited to sub-6 GHz . Limited special editions focused on unique color options, such as Kinda Coral and Sorta Seafoam for the Pixel 6, Sorta Sunny for the Pixel 6 Pro, and Sage for the , which were offered in restricted quantities and are now discontinued as has ceased sales of the series.

Reception and legacy

Critical reviews

The Google Pixel 6 series received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its innovative design and camera capabilities while noting some shortcomings in software stability and performance. The camera system, leveraging advanced , was a standout feature, delivering vibrant colors, sharp details, and effective low-light performance through Google's AI-driven processing. The Verge awarded the Pixel 6 a score of 9/10 and the Pixel 6 Pro 8/10, highlighting the "excellent cameras" as a key strength that made the devices competitive with premium flagships. Similarly, Android Authority gave the Pixel 6 a 9/10 rating, commending the upgraded cameras for their consistency and long-overdue improvements in computational features like Magic Eraser and Real Tone. Critics also lauded the distinctive design, particularly the horizontal camera bar that spans the back of the device, which provided a bold, symmetrical aesthetic and improved tabletop stability. However, the glossy rear finish on the Pixel 6 Pro was criticized as a "fingerprint magnet," attracting smudges that required frequent cleaning. The Pixel 6 Pro was particularly favored for its zoom capabilities, with the 48-megapixel enabling sharp 4x optical zoom and effective hybrid zoom up to 10x, outperforming the standard model's digital-only approach in long-range . Overall, reviewers highlighted the series' innovation in AI integration, powered by the custom Tensor chip, which enabled features like on-device and enhanced photo editing without compromising . On the downside, the launch software was marred by bugs, including connectivity issues, overheating during intensive tasks, and an unreliable in-display fingerprint sensor that often required multiple attempts for authentication. Battery life was described as inconsistent, with the Pixel 6 lasting around 8 hours in rigorous testing—below expectations for its 4,614mAh capacity—though it improved to over 11 hours in lighter use scenarios. The processor, while efficient for AI workloads, underperformed in raw benchmarks compared to contemporaries like the Snapdragon 888, aligning more closely with the previous-generation Snapdragon 865 in CPU and GPU tasks. These factors contributed to mixed sentiments on long-term reliability, though many critics viewed the Pixel 6 as Google's most ambitious flagship to date.

Commercial success and issues

The Pixel 6 series achieved strong initial commercial success, with global shipments reaching approximately 3.75 million units in its first year after the October 2021 launch, according to data from firm IDC. This performance marked a significant uptick for , contributing to a roughly 380% year-over-year increase in Pixel shipments in during Q1 2022 and helping the brand's market climb to around 2% by mid-year. However, sales growth tapered off in subsequent quarters and years, hampered by fierce competition from established players like and Apple, resulting in total Pixel 6 series shipments remaining under 5 million units overall. Despite the promising start, the Pixel 6 encountered several prominent hardware issues that impacted user satisfaction. Connectivity problems were widespread, with many users experiencing intermittent signal drops and unreliable performance due to the 5123 integrated into the Tensor chip. Overheating was another major complaint, often occurring during resource-intensive activities such as 4K video recording or prolonged gaming, which could make the device uncomfortably hot to the touch. The in-display optical also drew criticism for its inaccuracies, frequently failing to detect registered fingerprints promptly or at all, even after software tweaks. By 2025, ongoing user reports underscored frustrations with update delays; as of late 2025, Pixel 6 updates shifted to quarterly, skipping dedicated October and November patches after fixes in September. Persistent notification lags following the 2025 update were also reported. Although 's extended support commitment—providing OS upgrades through Android 17 and security patches until at least October 2028 following the December 2024 extension—has extended the device's usability, it has not substantially elevated resale values, which have plummeted to as low as $145 for used units as of mid-2025. Some software bugs persisted alongside these hardware woes, though many were mitigated through subsequent updates. In December 2024, extended OS support for the Pixel 6 series by two additional years, ensuring updates through at least 2028. These challenges culminated in legal action, including a 2024 class-action accusing of defects in the Pixel 6 Pro that led to excessive overheating, alleging the company was aware of the issue prior to launch and failed to disclose it.

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