We went hands-on with the Google Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL in Montréal
Two days before their official release, we were invited to Google’s Montréal offices for an early hands-on session with the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL. We only had a few minutes with each device, so this is not a full review, but it was enough to see how Google is separating the regular Pixel from its two Pro models.
All three phones retain a very recognizable Google look. The Pixel 11 has a polished finish that catches more light, while the Pro and Pro XL use a more understated material that feels less reflective. The regular Pixel 11 was particularly comfortable in hand. It shares its 6.3-inch format with the Pixel 11 Pro, while the Pro XL moves up to a 6.8-inch display.
The biggest surprise may be the regular Pixel 11 camera system. It now includes a 48MP main camera, a 13MP ultrawide and a 10.8MP 5x telephoto, with Super Zoom up to 30x. The Pro models use larger 50MP, 48MP and 48MP sensors, a 5x telephoto and Pro Zoom up to 120x. Video recording also reaches 8K on the Pro models through Video Boost.
The feature we enjoyed most during the demonstration was Magic Capture. A subject can move through several poses during a short capture, and the Pixel automatically produces a selection of photos and video, reframing and removing blur when needed. We tried it with someone changing poses and jumping during a five- or six-second sequence, and the results were surprisingly convincing. This feels like one of those AI features people may actually use.
Every model runs on Google’s Tensor G6 with the Titan M3 security chip, offers at least 256GB of storage and supports magnetic Pixelsnap wireless charging at up to 25W. Google claims more than 30 hours of battery life across the lineup, although that is something we will need to test properly once our review unit arrives.
Which model makes the most sense to you: the smaller Pixel 11, the compact Pro, or the larger Pro XL?
Sources & more
- Our hands-on article and original photos
Posted Aug 12, 2026, 2:02 PM UTC