The smartphone world is buzzing, and the reason is a little slab of tech magic from Google: the Pixel 10 Pro XL. And honestly, it’s the Moonstone colorway that has me completely captivated. This isn’t just an incremental update; it feels like a genuine leap forward for Google, and here’s why.
Right out of the box, the Pixel 10 Pro XL feels premium. Google has kept the classic Pixel camera bar—a design element I’ve really grown to appreciate—but they’ve refined it. The matte glass back in this stunning Moonstone finish isn’t just a color; it’s a statement. It catches the light in a subtle, elegant way and, even better, it doesn’t show off fingerprints. The polished aluminum rails tie everything together beautifully. It’s a phone that looks great sitting on a table, but even better in your hand.
The Powerhouse Within: Tensor G5 and On-Device Gemini
Let’s talk about the real brains of the operation: the Tensor G5 chip. This is the first time Google has built its processor completely in-house on a 3nm process, and you can feel the difference. The claims of a faster CPU and a massive boost for AI workloads are legit. Apps launch instantly, and the phone just feels incredibly fluid.
But the real star here is the deep integration of Gemini AI. Gemini Nano running right on the device means features like “Magic Cue”—where the phone intelligently suggests actions based on your screen content—and “Camera Coach” are incredibly fast and intuitive. This isn’t a gimmick; it’s a glimpse into the future of what a smartphone can truly do.
A Camera That Makes You Feel Like a Pro
Pixel phones have always been about the camera, and the 10 Pro XL takes that legacy to a whole new level. The triple-camera system is seriously impressive, and its real power is unlocked by the new Tensor G5’s AI capabilities:
- Rear Camera: Pro triple-camera system with a 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide with Macro Focus, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens. The new “Pro Res Zoom” allows for a mind-bending 100x digital zoom with surprisingly usable results.
- Front Camera: A 42MP Dual PD selfie camera with autofocus.
My Favorite New Feature: Pixelsnap
Okay, I have to talk about this. The new Pixelsnap magnetic charging standard is exactly what Android needed. This is Google’s answer to MagSafe, and it works perfectly. Snapping on a charger, a wallet, or a stand feels incredibly satisfying. The 25W wireless charging is fast, but the convenience is the real win here. It makes me feel like I’m finally living in a fully connected ecosystem.
Google Pixel 10 Pro XL: Key Specifications
- Display: 6.8-inch LTPO OLED Super Actua Display with 1-120Hz refresh rate. It boasts a peak brightness of up to 3,300 nits and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
- Processor: Google Tensor G5 with Titan M2 security coprocessor.
- RAM: 16GB.
- Storage: 256GB.
- Operating System: Android 16 (with a guaranteed 7 years of OS and security updates).
- Battery: 5,200mAh.
- Charging: 45W wired fast charging and up to 25W Pixelsnap wireless charging (Qi2 certified).
- Cameras:
- Rear: 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide with Macro Focus, 48MP 5x telephoto.
- Front: 42MP Dual PD.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Bluetooth 6.0, 5G, NFC, USB-C 3.2.
- Durability: IP68 dust and water resistance.
- Price: Starting at Rs. 1,24,999 in India ($1,199 in the U.S.).
- Release Date: Available for pre-order now, on sale starting August 28, 2025.
The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL in Moonstone is more than just a new phone; it’s a showcase of Google’s technological prowess and their commitment to AI-first hardware. From the beautiful design and the powerhouse Tensor G5 to the incredible camera and the sheer convenience of Pixelsnap, this phone is a compelling package. It’s a phone that truly encourages you to “Ask more of your phone.” And for a mobile photography enthusiast like me, that’s exactly what I’m looking for.
