Google launched the Pixel 11 on August 12, 2026, starting at $899 for 256GB of storage. The device features a new Tensor G6 chip built on TSMC’s 2nm process and a 4,985mAh battery, positioning it as a direct AI-centric competitor to Samsung’s Galaxy S26.
The Pixel 11 arrives during a volatile period for hardware components. Google has attributed a $100 price increase over last year’s Pixel 10 to a global RAM shortage. While the starting price is higher, Google eliminated the 128GB entry tier, meaning the $899 base model now includes 256GB of storage.
Tensor G6 vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Google is no longer chasing raw benchmark scores. The Tensor G6 is built on a TSMC 2nm process, which is a generation ahead of the 3nm node used in Samsung’s chip. This shift focuses on power efficiency and thermal management rather than peak compute speed.
The performance gap is stark in raw numbers. The Galaxy S26’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 scores 2,808 in single-core and 10,212 in multi-core on Geekbench 7. In contrast, the Tensor G6 manages 2,112 and 5,196, respectively. According to Memeburn, the Tensor G6 trails by roughly 25% in single-core and nearly 50% in multi-core performance.
However, Google has optimized the Tensor G6’s TPU (tensor processing unit) specifically for on-device Gemini features and real-time translation. While the Snapdragon chip remains roughly three times faster in GPU performance, Google’s GPU has improved by about 80% over the previous Tensor G5.
Hardware Divergence: Battery and Connectivity
One of the most significant internal changes is the removal of Samsung-made modems. The Pixel 11 now uses a MediaTek M90 modem, ending a six-year period of connectivity issues that began with the Tensor G1.
The two flagships also differ sharply in endurance. The Pixel 11 features a 4,985mAh battery, a 16% increase over the Galaxy S26’s 4,300mAh cell. Memeburn reports that Samsung has maintained the same compact battery capacity since the S25, which often leads to power struggles during heavy camera use or navigation.
Camera Specs and Magic Capture
Google has introduced a new 48MP primary sensor designed to capture 56% more light. The Pixel 11 also upgrades its telephoto capabilities to 5x optical zoom and a maximum digital zoom of 30x. Samsung, by contrast, reused the same camera setup from the Galaxy S25, including the 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP 3x telephoto sensors.
A new software addition, Magic Capture, allows the Pixel 11 to automatically extract high-quality still photos from video recordings. Samsung currently lacks an equivalent feature, though its Galaxy AI tools remain competitive for social sharing and quick edits.
Pixel 11 Lineup Pricing and Storage
The RAM shortage has impacted the entire Google ecosystem. While the base Pixel 11 starts at $899, the Pro models have seen varying adjustments. The Pixel 11 Pro XL and Pixel 11 Pro Fold both received flat $100 price hikes across all storage tiers.
| Model | Starting Price (256GB) | Max Price (1TB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pixel 11 | $899 | $1,019 (512GB max) | $100 increase over Pixel 10 |
| Pixel 11 Pro | $1,099 | $1,499 | $50 increase for 1TB tier |
| Pixel 11 Pro XL | $1,299 | $1,649 | $100 increase across all tiers |
| Pixel 11 Pro Fold | $1,899 | $2,249 | $100 increase across all tiers |
The shortage also forced a reduction in memory for entry-level Pro models. While the 512GB and 1TB versions of the Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL retain 16GB of RAM, the starting 256GB versions now only have 12GB. Google claims silicon and software optimizations make these 2026 models faster and smoother despite the RAM dip.
Gemini Intelligence and Ambient AI
Google is pivoting away from chatbot-style interactions toward Memeburn, an ambient AI layer that proactively suggests actions based on on-screen activity and app context. This vision is physically represented on the Pro models via HiLight, a ring of LEDs around the camera that glows during voice prompts or specific contact calls.
This strategy contrasts with Samsung’s feature-by-feature approach to AI. While Samsung focuses on specific tools like MyFan Cam and AI photo assist, Google is attempting to make AI an invisible, always-aware assistant integrated into the OS.
All Pixel 11 models are available for preorder now, with the full release scheduled for August 20.
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