Google’s ₹1.25 Lakh Bet on AI and Cameras
Google is no longer content with playing catch-up. With the launch of the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, priced at ₹1,24,999, the company is clearly gunning for the premium league. This phone is not just another yearly refresh; it is Google’s most ambitious attempt yet to stand alongside the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
The question is simple but important. Does Google finally have a flagship that competes head-on with the big two? From design and display to performance, cameras, and AI, we tested the Pixel 10 Pro XL to see if it delivers more than just software smarts.
Design That Balances Size and Elegance
The Pixel 10 Pro XL is undeniably large, but it avoids feeling bulky. At 232 grams, it has a solid weight, yet its curves and balanced ergonomics make it comfortable. Google’s signature visor camera bar returns but with slimmer bezels and a sleeker finish compared to last year’s model.
The Jade green variant, with its matte frosted back, looks premium and resists smudges well. Its aerospace-grade aluminium frame feels both stylish and durable. While Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra still wins in terms of ultra-thin bezels, Google has caught up enough to make the phone look modern.
Durability is also strong. Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and IP68 certification mean the phone can handle everyday bumps and splashes. Google deserves credit for pushing sustainability too, with recycled materials used across the build. This gives the Pixel 10 Pro XL an identity beyond just looks.
Display That Stands Out
Google has packed a 6.8-inch LTPO OLED Super Actua display with 1344 x 2992 resolution. It supports a dynamic refresh rate from 1 Hz to 120 Hz, keeping interactions smooth while saving power when needed.
The real leap is brightness. With 3300 nits peak brightness, outdoor readability is excellent. It still lags behind Samsung’s 3500-nit panel, but in real-world use, the difference is hardly noticeable. HDR content looks vibrant, with rich contrast and sharp detail, making it a great display for movies and gaming.
AI at the Core
Running on Android 16, the Pixel 10 Pro XL doubles down on Google’s AI-first vision. Gemini Nano and Gemini Live are deeply integrated. Real-time translations, contextual conversations, and smart journaling features show how AI is shaping everyday interactions.
Features like Magic Cue sometimes feel inconsistent, but they hint at a future where your phone knows what you need before you ask. Google’s AI tools don’t always hit perfection, but they remain the clearest differentiator from Apple and Samsung.
Performance: Strong, But Not the Best
Powering the phone is the Tensor G5 chipset, built on a 3nm process. It fixes the heating problems of earlier Tensors, making multitasking and gaming smoother. Paired with 16 GB RAM, the phone runs demanding apps without lag.
In benchmarks, however, it trails rivals. The Pixel scores lower than Samsung’s Snapdragon 8 Elite and Apple’s A19 Bionic. Heavy gamers may prefer the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which offers stronger GPU performance. But for everyday use — browsing, streaming, photography, and light gaming — the Pixel 10 Pro XL performs reliably and doesn’t overheat.
Cameras: Still the Star of the Show
Google’s cameras continue to shine. The Pixel 10 Pro XL carries a 50 MP main sensor, a 48 MP ultrawide, and a 48 MP telephoto with 5x zoom. On paper, it looks unchanged from last year. But Tensor G5 and AI enhancements make a big difference.
Photos are sharp and natural, with balanced colors. The new 50 MP portrait mode captures faces with depth and detail. Night Sight continues to impress, often delivering more realistic low-light shots than Samsung’s brighter but sometimes artificial results.
The 42 MP selfie camera adds versatility, especially with its wide-angle view. Google’s AI features like Best Take and Face Unblur ensure group photos and casual selfies look sharp. Samsung still leads in zoom versatility, but for most users, the Pixel’s balance of natural colors and AI enhancements will be more appealing.
Battery Life and Charging
With a 5200 mAh battery, the Pixel 10 Pro XL lasts comfortably a day and a half under regular use. Charging speeds have improved too. The phone supports 45W wired charging and 25W Qi2 wireless charging, cutting full charging time to around 75 minutes.
Google’s new Pixelsnap magnetic charging feels promising, though accessory options remain limited. Battery life is solid, though Samsung’s Ultra edges ahead slightly in endurance.
Verdict: Worth the Premium?
The Pixel 10 Pro XL is Google’s most confident flagship yet. It doesn’t beat Apple or Samsung in raw power, but it matches them in design, display, and AI features. Most importantly, its camera system still delivers some of the most reliable and realistic results on any phone.
At ₹1,24,999, it is not a value buy. Instead, it is for those who want a refined Google experience powered by AI. If you want raw gaming power, Samsung still leads. If you want unmatched app support, Apple remains king. But if you want an AI-driven smartphone with cameras that rarely disappoint, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is a strong contender.
