I’m sorry — Google had a better year than you’re willing to admit

Nothing seems to stir the pot more this year than speaking positively about the Google Pixel 10, which honestly shocks me.

There were years when legitimate concerns and missteps surrounded the Pixel smartphones. For a while, it didn’t seem like the company had a clear vision for the devices.

Then, when it started to form one with the Pixel 6, there were nothing but headaches — faulty fingerprint readers, spotty updates, and an overheating, inefficient first-gen Tensor all plagued users.

However, that’s no longer the case. Google has a clear vision for the Pixel lineup, and it’s executing the plan to a reasonable degree of success.

Sales are up, the hardware is better than ever, and Material 3 Expressive is a design many Android manufacturers would do well to learn from.

Here’s why Google had a better year than you’re willing to admit.

The hardware is in its best spot in years

Much less to complain about

I mentioned my issues with the Google Pixel 6, and I had similar problems with the Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 7a.

It wasn’t until the Pixel 8 that Google turned the corner, finally addressing several user concerns.

The screens got significantly better, thanks to Google’s Super Actua panels. The battery life also improved with a more efficient third-gen Tensor chipset that was less prone to overheating.

The Pixel 9 series offered more of the same, and it was reassuring to see Google duplicate the success.

We’ve seen one-off amazing Pixels before, but consistency is key, and Google struggled with it for a long time.

The Pixel 10 series is the best yet. The Tensor G5 is smooth, and I’ve not had any overheating issues.

I get it, people want better gaming performance, and I do, too. It’s definitely an area Google has to work on, but it’s also blown out of proportion.

I can play demanding AAA titles on medium settings, and not everyone lists mobile gaming as a buying consideration.

The Pixel excels in other areas that don’t get credit because they don’t show up on a spec sheet.

Google is more aware of its customer profile than ever before, and it’s leaning into that for greater sales success.

Excellent software to match the hardware

I can’t get enough of Material 3 Expressive

Google took its sweet time fleshing out its vision for Android.

I disagreed with the company’s move away from stock Android on its devices, and Material You never hit the spot for me. It felt awkward and half-baked.

While I loved Pixel feature extras, it often wasn’t enough to override what I felt was second-rate software.

I can confidently say that Material 3 Expressive design on Android 16 was worth the wait. It’s thoughtful, playful, and, most importantly, runs smoothly.

The Pixel 10 is the phone I recommend to people looking to switch from an iPhone because Google did such an excellent job making its Android 16 version both intuitive and quirky.

It’s fun in a way Pixels haven’t been in years, and it’s a key selling point of the phones.

I’ve also been impressed with Google’s software updates. I loved the November Pixel Feature Drop, and the December update brought new features and enhancements.

Little things like Power Saving Mode in Google Maps aren’t world-changing, but they add up to a pleasant user experience.

Solid, enjoyable software matters to buyers as much as hardware specs, and Google nailed it with the Pixel 10.

It’s hard to argue with success

We aren’t seeing Pixel customer satisfaction nightmares anymore

I don’t wholly disagree with enthusiasts who have taken issue with Google over its Tensor chipsets and other misgivings.

The phone is expensive, so the company doesn’t get away with being a considerable value compared to other flagships anymore.

Google also has to accept prior customer dissatisfaction. I can’t go back and argue with Pixel 6 and 7 owners because their experience was poor. I was one of those owners, and I agree with their frustration.

They don’t buy a new phone every year, and while I review what comes across my desk, I can see people not wanting to spend their hard-earned money on another Pixel.

Still, the early returns have been good. Pixel 10 sales are up year over year, and I’m not seeing any nightmares where people are complaining and returning their devices en masse.

I also don’t want to hear about carrier incentives and trade-in offers driving increased sales, either. That’s ridiculous.

People act as if every manufacturer doesn’t have the same or similar programs with carriers. Pixel sales are up, whether you like it or not.

A little credit where credit is due

I’m the first one in line to give Google grief when things go wrong.

I’ve had numerous frustrations with the company, from lackluster devices to cutting projects before they have a chance to grow.

Even still, I have to give credit where credit is due, and Google has had a successful 2025. The devices are excellent, and things are headed in the right direction.

There’s plenty of work to be done, but Google doesn’t deserve a portion of the hate it’s getting. Whether you’re willing to accept that or not is up to you.

Credit: Google

9/10

SoC

Google Tensor G5

RAM

12GB

Storage

128GB / 256GB

Battery

4970mAh

This striking-looking addition to the Pixel line offers a slew of Gemini features, an 5x telephoto lens, and seven years of updates, making this a smartphone that will last you a while.