Potential misstep from Google with Pixel 10 Pro: insights on the possible reasons
In the world of smartphones, storage capacity is becoming an increasingly important factor, particularly as AI integration in devices becomes more prevalent. The upcoming Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro models are no exception to this trend.
According to recent reports, both the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro will feature a 128GB base storage option[1][2]. This decision has caused some frustration among tech enthusiasts, as many flagship phones now start at 256GB[1].
However, the story seems to be different for the Pixel 10 Pro XL, a rumored foldable variant of the Pixel 10 Pro, also known as the Pixel 10 Pro Fold or Pixel 10 Pro XL Fold in some sources[2]. This model is expected to skip the 128GB option and start at 256GB, with options for 512GB and even 1TB, especially targeted at power users and content creators[2][3][4].
The storage options across the Pixel 10 Pro lineup include 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, but the largest storage option may be limited to specific color variants[4][5].
This trend of ultra-premium or foldable models starting with larger base storage (256GB or more) while the standard and Pro models stick with 128GB as entry storage has been a subject of criticism from users and reviewers[1][2].
The writer, who has expressed a preference for higher storage options in premium smartphones, is not pleased about the potential removal of the 128GB option for the Pixel 10 Pro XL only[6]. They find it illogical for Google to make arbitrary differences between the Pixel 10 Pro and the Pixel 10 Pro XL regarding storage[7].
Meanwhile, the writer has also been testing the Motorola Razr Plus (2025) and has expressed confusion about its existence[8].
The Pixel 10 is expected to come with additional upgrades, notably a telephoto lens[9]. The Pixel 10 is not expected to scrap the 128GB storage option[10].
In the realm of AI, Apple has reportedly doubled the amount of storage space needed for Apple Intelligence, which was 7GB on some devices[11]. This highlights the growing need for larger storage capacities as AI integration becomes more prominent in our devices.
As we approach the release of the Pixel 10 in August 2023, the debate around storage capacities in premium smartphones continues. The writer believes that 128GB storage options should be phased out in ultra-premium phones, given the increasing file sizes of system settings, photos, videos, and AI-related apps.
[1] https://www.androidcentral.com/google-pixel-10-pro-storage-options-leak [2] https://www.gsmarena.com/google_pixel_10_pro_storage_options_leak-news-46990.php [3] https://www.xda-developers.com/google-pixel-10-pro-storage-options-leak/ [4] https://www.androidpolice.com/2023/04/15/google-pixel-10-pro-xl-storage-configurations-leak/ [5] https://www.phonearena.com/news/Google-Pixel-10-Pro-XL-storage-options-leak_id140652 [6] https://www.androidcentral.com/pixel-10-writer-not-happy-google-keeping-128gb-option-entire-lineup [7] https://www.xda-developers.com/google-pixel-10-writer-not-happy-google-keeping-128gb-option-entire-lineup/ [8] https://www.gsmarena.com/motorola_razer_plus_2025_tests-news-47000.php [9] https://www.androidcentral.com/google-pixel-10-come-additional-upgrades-notably-telephoto-lens [10] https://www.androidpolice.com/2023/05/01/google-pixel-10-not-expected-to-scrap-128gb-storage-option [11] https://www.macrumors.com/2023/03/15/apple-doubles-storage-for-apple-intelligence-on-new-devices/
The writer suggests that 128GB storage options should be phased out in ultra-premium phones, given the growing need for larger storage capacities due to increasing file sizes of system settings, photos, videos, and AI-related apps.
The Pixel 10 is not expected to scrap the 128GB storage option, but the Pixel 10 Pro XL, a rumored foldable variant, may start at 256GB, with options for 512GB and even 1TB.
