Made by Google 2026 is upon us, and while the tech world is holding its breath in anticipation of the Pixel 11 series, I'm surprisingly calm. This year's hardware cycle suggests that the era of rapid innovation has hit its ceiling.
While most people's attention is focused on new phones and watches, my gaze is directed to the horizon, where the first Android laptops with Aluminum OSBut why does this year's flagship Pixel 11 from Google leave me cold?
The Pixel's design language has undergone a significant transformation since the ninth generation. Characteristic camera "island" has become an icon that clearly distinguishes Google phones from the competition (mini(almost until the arrival of the iPhone Air). But leaked Pixel 11 Pro XL renders indicate that we only have one more to come variace on the same topic.
Paradoxically, the most interesting visual change this year will not be brought by the flagship, but by the model Pixel 10aIts completely flat camera module showed the way to a functional minismallness and better ergonomics. It is logical that the massive sensors and periscopic telephoto lenses of flagship models require their own space, but I would expect Google to pull out this year in a duel with Apple design trump card. Instead, we get recycling, which in 2026 feels more like a sure bet than a major technological development.
Why change what works?
Google on the line Pixel 10 has set the bar high – seven years of support for system updates and security is not just a marketing ploy, but a real promise of longevity. If I own a Pixel 10 Pro today, I am essentially holding a device in my hand that will be fully functional until the beginning of the next decade.
The performance of mobile chipsets has stabilized over the past two years at a level where the average user will not notice the difference between generations in practice. Manufacturers are trying to sell the “AI revolution”, but most of these features run in cloudor will arrive as an update to older models. My current mobile phone has the same security standards and key features as the upcoming new product. And the idea that I would regret missing out on a series in 2032 is simply unrealistic.
Tensor G6 under the microscope
The biggest question mark is the transition to the new architecture Tensor G6 chip. Google has decided on a fundamental change in connectivity and energy management – deploying a modem MediaTek M90, which replaces Samsung's previous solution. In theory, this should mean higher energy efficiency, less waste heat, and a more stable signal.
But the first generation of a new architecture always carries the risk of childhood diseases. If my current Pixel can handle a full day of use without overheating, I see no reason to risk upgrading to Tensor G6 until real-world tests confirm its stability.
It is also speculated that the Pixel 11 will bring thanks to the coprocessor Titan M3 and infrared cameras advanced 3D facial recognition, which should compete with Face ID. Yes, unlocking the phone in complete darkness without having to use the optical fingerprint reader under the display is a welcome convenience.
The question remains, however, whether this feature is essential enough to justify the investment in a new device. Current biometrics work reliably and are sufficient for most users. infrared scanning at night rather a marginal improvement. The Pixel 11 thus far appears to be a great choice for owners of older generations (Pixel 7 or 8), but for owners of last year's models it lacks a strong argument for purchase.
