Rumored Google Pixel 10 cases indicate the inclusion of Qi2 wireless charging, and the significance behind this update.
The tech world is abuzz with anticipation as Google prepares to unveil its next generation of smartphones, the Pixel 10 series, at the Made by Google event on the 20th of August.
In a move that mirrors Apple's MagSafe system, the Pixel 10 series will come equipped with built-in magnets for magnetic attachments and wireless charging. This innovative feature allows the phones to click onto magnetic Qi2 wireless chargers and work with magnetic accessories such as power banks, wallets, and car mounts.
The Pixel 10 series will be available in a variety of colours, including Indigo (blue), Obsidian (black), Limoncello (light green), Frost (light blue), Moonstone (light grey), Jade (light green), and Porcelain (off white).
However, there are important distinctions within the series regarding charging speeds and feature trade-offs. The Pixel 10 Pro XL, the largest model, supports the latest Qi2.2 standard and can charge wirelessly up to 25W. The smaller Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro models, on the other hand, support only up to 15W wireless charging, intentionally capped by Google to manage heat and preserve battery longevity.
Regrettably, the Pixel 10 series does not support reverse wireless charging, a feature that allowed charging other devices wirelessly. This decision was made to accommodate the Qi2 magnets, which create physical limitations for reverse wireless charging.
The first-party cases for the Google Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL have been revealed, and they will feature a microfiber lining for added protection. These cases are designed to connect to Google's planned magnetic accessories called Pixel Snap.
Rumours suggest that the Pixel 10 could potentially include a telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and the ultrawide lens might drop from 48MP to 12MP in the Pixel 10, according to rumours. The Pixel 10 series is also reported to include a new wireless charging option.
A dummy unit, if genuine, has been leaked online, potentially resolving the SIM card debate. However, no official confirmation has been given on whether Google might remove SIM trays from certain Pixel 10 models, focusing on e-SIMs.
Tom's Guide will provide live updates during the Made by Google event, so stay tuned for more information on this exciting new series. An article comparing iOS 26 Image Playground and Android 16 Pixel Studio suggests the latter as the better AI image generator, further fueling anticipation for the Pixel 10 series.
As the Pixel 10 series gadgets approach release, users can look forward to smartphones that will support magnetic Qi2 wireless chargers and magnetic accessories, offering versatile charging and attachment options. The upcoming phones will also debut new technology in the form of a potential telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a new wireless charging option, promising an exciting upgrade for photography enthusiasts.