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Google has launched the Pixel 11 series with Gemini Intelligence at the center of its smartphone strategy. The lineup includes the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL. All three phones opened for preorder on August 12 and reached stores on August 20. Prices start at $899, $1,099 and $1,299, respectively.
The Google Pixel 11 series uses Gemini Intelligence to connect information across several Google services. The system can work with messages, calendars, Maps and other supported applications. It can find open calendar times, compare travel routes and help arrange restaurant bookings. Google designed these tools to complete tasks, rather than only answer questions.
Google devices chief Rick Osterloh called the system ‘a totally new way to interact with a computer.’ He told CNBC that users can ‘not only find out information but get things done.’ The company also includes scam detection, voice transcription and deeper Gemini links across Android. However, available functions may depend on the application, account and region.
Google builds Gemini Intelligence into the phone rather than offering it only through a separate application. Users can move between search, planning and action inside supported services. The system relies on account permissions and available personal data. Google says this approach reduces the steps required for common mobile tasks.
Meanwhile, Google powers the new phones with its Tensor G6 chip and an updated Gemini Nano model. The processor brings 50% more tensor processing capacity. Google reports 25% faster web browsing and 15% quicker application launches. It also processes supported on-device AI tasks up to 3.5 times faster.
The company says those tasks can use up to 3.5 times less energy. Google pairs Tensor G6 with the Titan M3 security chip. Together, they add post-quantum cryptography to the secure boot process. Each Pixel 11 model also receives seven years of operating system, security and Pixel Drop updates.
Moreover, the launch places Google’s agentic tools on phones before Apple releases its planned Siri overhaul. Apple announced the new assistant at its June developer conference. The updated Siri uses Google’s Gemini models and draws from personal data across supported Apple applications. It can search messages, emails and photos while responding to on-screen content.
Apple plans to release the assistant through iOS 27 and related software updates during the fall. The service initially arrives as an English-language beta on supported devices. CNBC asked Osterloh about Google demonstrating Gemini’s capabilities before they reach iPhones. He said the Pixel and iPhone are ‘going in very different directions.’
The phones also bring hardware changes alongside the software push. Google gives each model at least 256GB of storage after removing the 128GB option. The company cites rising memory costs as one factor behind higher device prices. Every model costs $100 more than its previous-generation equivalent.
Camera upgrades include a larger 48-megapixel main sensor on the standard Pixel 11. Google reports 56% greater light sensitivity and up to 30x Super Zoom. The Pro models add a 48-megapixel telephoto camera, 120x Pro Zoom and faster Night Sight processing.
Google also introduces a brighter 3,600-nit display on the Pro models. HiLight uses colored LEDs around the camera flash for Gemini activity and selected callers. Separately, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold starts at $1,899 with 256GB of storage and 16GB of RAM.
Also Read: Made by Google 2026: Pixel 11 Series, Pixel Watch 5, Gemini AI Take Center Stage
