Google’s Android operating system currently has a 70.93% global market share as of 2024. While all of these phones use the operating software created by Google, only a smaller percentage are actually manufactured by Google.
The Android mobile operating system first launched its commercial version, Android 1.0, in 2008, but it wasn’t until 2016 that Google developed its own device—the Google Pixel phone. This led to subsequent devices, including wearables, laptops, and tablets.
The brand slogan alone doesn’t let you forget who made it, “Pixel, the only phone engineered by Google.” The Pixel has gained traction rapidly in the past few years, with sales blossoming particularly in Japan.
Japan is a market that has been historically dominated by Apple, but in recent years, Google has been making its mark with the Pixel. The firm’s market share jumped above 10% in the fourth quarter of 2023 in the country.
Japan isn’t the only region where Pixel devices are seeing a rise in popularity, too. The Google Pixel market share has been steadily growing in the US despite a decline in overall smartphone sales.
In a saturated market, the Pixel device is unique because it’s one of the few devices that offers a ‘stock’ version of the Android operating system. It’s also manufactured by Google, the creator of Android, allowing for better software support.
The Latest Google Pixel Phones
Google still supports the Pixel line of devices, releasing new models yearly. Currently, they are on the 8th generation of products, which include options for all price ranges—whether you’re on a budget or looking to spend.
Below, we’ve outlined the latest Google Pixel devices, including their features and specifications. In addition to phones, Google also manufactures Pixel-branded smartwatches, tablets, and earbuds, like the Pixel Buds series.
Google Pixel 8
The Google Pixel 8 is the standard option for anyone looking to jump into Google’s 8th generation of flagship phones. It’s also powered by the new Tensor G3 chip, providing cutting-edge performance and features, including AI-powered software.
The Google Pixel line has also won awards for being one of the best phones for camera quality, and the 8 carries this. The Pixel 8 features a primary 50MP camera, an ultra-wide camera at 12MP, and software to enhance pictures taken.
The Pixel 8’s Tensor G3 Chip, also found in the 8 Pro and 8a models, is Google's latest semi-custom processor. It has significant improvements over the previous Tensor G2 Chip and is currently one of the best options available for intensive tasks and gaming on the market.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
For anyone looking for a premium model of the Pixel 8, the ‘Pro’ version is perfect, and even better if you can find it refurbished or on sale. At a slightly higher price point, the 8 Pro improves on all the cutting-edge features the Pixel 8 offers.
This includes better performance, as the 8 Pro features 12 GB of RAM instead of the standard 8 GB. The Pro also has better camera functionality and photo-specific features, like the superior ultrawide lens and video boost.
The 8 Pro also features a larger screen, at 6.7 inches, compared to the standard 6.2 inches in the Pixel 8. The Pixel 8 Pro also boasts better battery life than the 8 and 8a models, lasting over 10 hours.
Google Pixel 8a
Google’s numbered ‘A’ series of Pixel devices have always been known to be fantastic as powerful budget devices. The latest ‘8a’ is no exception, and in some cases—excels over the standard Pixel 8.
The Pixel 8a has a slightly smaller screen than the original Pixel 8, at 6.1 inches and a slightly smaller battery. With that being said, the 8a is significantly more affordable, being the ‘budget’ option, while having the same Tensor G3 chip for performance.
The Pixel 8a also has the same RAM and storage options as the flagship Pixel 8 phone. For anyone looking for a budget phone with a fantastic camera, the 8a can’t be beat—it has a 64MP wide and 13MP ultra-wide camera.
Why Google Pixel Phones Are Gaining Popularity
The rise of Google Pixel phones comes down to a few factors, including affordability, software support, incredible features, and marketing. Many users online are starting to call it the ‘iPhone’ of Android devices, with its sleek interface, phone design, and user-friendly experience.
One of the main factors for the Pixel phone's rise to fame is the ‘Stock’ operating system. Most Android phones don’t run with a ‘stock’ version of Android—manufacturers like Samsung and OPPO layer their own software over the core Android OS and include their own apps.
This can result in bloatware, impact a phone’s performance, and cause app compatibility issues. That’s one of the leading factors why Pixel phones are gaining popularity because it’s one of the few phones offering a stock Android OS from the get-go.
Because Pixel phones are running the stock Android OS, it also means they receive software updates faster. Google is well-known for providing amazing support for their line of phones.
On top of that, the Pixel phones offer incredible value for price, especially if you want a professional-quality camera. Pixel devices are known to be affordable, have a budget model option, and they’re always pushing the technology for smartphone cameras to the limit.
Bonus Features of Google Pixel Phones
Google’s Pixel phone line is the best-supported Android device in terms of software updates. So, if you’re wondering anything like ‘Are Google Pixel phones secure?’ — the answer is yes.
With every model of Pixel phone released, Google always promises the devices will receive seven years of support and updates, including the latest security patches. Because Google is also the developer of Android, the Pixel phone usually receives the latest OS updates before other Android phones.
Another bonus of the Pixel phones is that they are seamlessly integrated into Google’s ecosystem. The device is connected to your Google account, and any information or data can easily be shared between other systems and browsers and used for new tools like Google’s Live Translate.
Buy Refurbished Google Pixel Phones at OzMobiles
If you’re curious about the Google Pixel phone line and why they’re gaining traction in the mobile market, a refurbished device is a great way to find out for yourself. Here at OzMobiles, we stock a range of refurbished phones, including the latest Pixel devices.
All the devices we sell, including the Pixel, go through an extensive 72-point refurbishment process in our headquarters. During this, we run a comprehensive check on all components, ensuring they are fully functional and run at optimal levels.
In our store, we also offer a free 12-month warranty and a 30-day risk-free return policy. So, if you have any issues or a change of mind, you can return the product.
If you have any questions about our refurbished Google Pixel phones or need help finding the right product for you—contact us today. Our team would be happy to answer any queries you might have.
