Google Pixel 11, Watch 5 Launch: What to Expect at 2026 Event

Google is set to unveil its latest hardware innovations at its annual Made by Google event this Wednesday, a launch notable for its later start time of 6 PM ET / 3 PM PT and a celebrity host, Trevor Noah. Anticipation is high for the Pixel 11 smartphone lineup, which Google has already offered glimpses of, alongside potential updates to the Pixel Watch and earbuds. Leaks also suggest the debut of an item tracker, reminiscent of Apple's AirTag.

The tech giant has already teased updated slab-style and foldable Pixel smartphones. However, an unusual element this year is a preorder countdown on the Google Store homepage for the Pixel 11, set to end hours before the official event. This suggests that key details about the new devices might be officially revealed as early as Wednesday morning, potentially diminishing the impact of the evening launch ceremony. Those wishing to watch the event live can tune in via YouTube.

The anticipated Pixel 11 lineup is expected to include four new models: the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. While the overall design is expected to mirror the Pixel 10 series, visual distinctions may include a continuous black camera bar and new color options. A prominent feature hinted at is the "HiLight" on the camera bar, a glowing light that, according to leaked code, can be customized with different colors for incoming calls from specific contacts and may also interact with Google's Gemini AI.

Under the hood, the Pixel 11 series is rumored to be powered by the new Tensor G6 chip, potentially manufactured using TSMC's 2nm process. If this proves true, it would mark the first smartphones on the market to utilize this advanced technology, potentially offering significant gains in performance and power efficiency. Early reports suggest base storage for the Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro may increase to 256GB, a step up from the previous 128GB. However, some listings indicate that the Pixel 11 Pro might see a reduction in RAM to 12GB from the Pixel 10 Pro's 16GB. Pricing adjustments are also expected across the Pixel family due to industry-wide memory cost increases.

Pixel Watch 5 and Buds Pro 2 Updates

The Pixel Watch 5 is also expected to be a significant part of the reveal. Having been inadvertently surfaced earlier this year, Google officially teased the device for an August 12th launch. Leaked renders suggest the watch will retain a design similar to the Pixel Watch 4, available in black, polished silver, yellow gold, and a brass-like finish. Specifications indicate two sizes, 41mm and 45mm, with battery life targets of 30 and 40 hours, respectively, consistent with its predecessor. Storage is reportedly doubling to 64GB. A key software focus for the Pixel Watch 5 will be Gemini Intelligence, described as a personal, proactive assistant designed to surface helpful information and offer context-aware replies to messages. Enhanced sleep tracking is also promised.

However, like the Pixel phones, the Pixel Watch 5 is anticipated to see a price increase. The 41mm Wi-Fi model may start at $399, up from $349.99, and the 45mm Wi-Fi model could begin at $429, an increase from $399.99. In a less substantial update, Google may also introduce a new olive green color for the Pixel Buds Pro 2, two years after their initial release. The core hardware appears unchanged, suggesting this is primarily an aesthetic refresh.

The introduction of a new item tracker, tentatively named Pixel Tag, is also on the horizon. Leaked images depict an oval-shaped device, distinguishing it from Apple's circular AirTag. This tracker is expected to leverage Android's Find Hub network for location services. While specific technical details and pricing remain scarce, its integration with the network, formerly known as "Find My Device," is anticipated. Google is also reportedly working on Googlebook laptops and Android XR glasses, though these are slated for a later fall release.