The Pixel 11 series isn’t trying to be the fastest smartphone on the market — it’s trying to be the smartest. And based on the latest leaks, Google is finally addressing the Pixel lineup’s long-standing weaknesses while doubling down on what makes it unique: AI, photography, and real-world usability.
From a major connectivity overhaul to huge camera and AI upgrades, the Pixel 11 could represent Google’s most important hardware reset in years.
Google Pixel 11 could finally fix Pixel connectivity issues
One of the most surprising leaks surrounding the Pixel 11 series is a major change to its connectivity hardware. For years, Pixel phones have struggled with signal stability, modem efficiency, and overheating — especially under heavy 5G use.
Multiple reports now suggest Google may drop Samsung’s modem entirely and switch to MediaTek’s upcoming M90 modem. If accurate, this would be a huge real-world upgrade rather than a headline-grabbing spec bump.
The MediaTek M90 is expected to deliver:
- Faster and more stable 5G speeds
- Dual-SIM dual-active support
- Improved satellite connectivity features
- Significantly better power efficiency
Crucially, improved modem efficiency could lead to noticeably better battery life, as the modem would no longer be generating excess heat during everyday use. It’s a quiet change — but potentially one of the most impactful upgrades in the Pixel 11 lineup.
Pixel 11 camera leaks point to major low-light and zoom improvements
The camera is where the Pixel 11 series really starts to pull ahead, at least according to current leaks.
Google is reportedly testing a major leap in ultra-low-light video performance, with usable footage in conditions as low as 5–10 lux — essentially near darkness. That would place the Pixel 11 well ahead of most current flagship phones when it comes to night video recording.
On top of that, leaks also point to a new 100× AI-assisted zoom, likely exclusive to the Pixel 11 Pro. Unlike current smartphones where extreme zoom quickly turns into a blurry mess, this system is said to use advanced AI reconstruction to produce cleaner, more usable results.
Video Generative ML could turn the Pixel 11 into a mobile production studio
Perhaps the most interesting camera-related leak is something referred to as Video Generative ML.
Rather than simple video editing, this technology would apply Google’s AI models directly to video footage. Leaked capabilities include:
- Removing unwanted objects from videos
- Enhancing scenes and lighting automatically
- Repairing noise and compression artifacts
- Changing or rebuilding backgrounds
All of this is expected to happen inside the standard Google Photos app. Combined with Google’s wider AI ecosystem — including Gemini, Photos, and YouTube — the Pixel 11 could become a powerful portable production tool, not just a camera phone.
Leaks also suggest the return of an under-display IR camera, allowing for secure face unlock without a large front cutout.
Tensor G6: Google’s first 2 nm chip focuses on efficiency and AI
Powering everything is the rumoured Tensor G6, which could be Google’s first chip built on a 2 nm process, potentially using TSMC’s N2 node.
Rather than chasing benchmark dominance, leaks suggest Google is prioritising:
- Better thermal control
- Higher efficiency
- Faster AI and image-processing performance
The result should be smoother real-time AI tasks, faster image rendering, improved battery life, and more consistent performance over long periods — the kind of improvements users actually notice day to day.
Pixel 11 design and codenames hint at refinement, not reinvention
The Pixel 11 series already has internal codenames: “Cubs” for the standard model and “Grizzly” for the Pro. That alone suggests Google isn’t starting from scratch.
Leaks indicate the Pixel 11 will build on the Pixel 10 design language, with:
- Slimmer bezels
- A more refined camera bar
- Improved under-display components
Externally, changes are expected to be subtle rather than dramatic.
Charging, battery, and pricing expectations
Power and charging upgrades are also on the table. Qi2 magnetic wireless charging is heavily rumoured, battery capacities are expected to increase, and the more efficient Tensor G6 should help extend battery life further.
Pricing is expected to remain close to last year, with the base Pixel 11 likely starting around $799 / £799, though slight regional increases wouldn’t be surprising.
Google Pixel 11 launch window
Google appears to be sticking to its usual release schedule. Current leaks point toward an August to October 2026 launch window, in line with previous Pixel releases.
Final thoughts
If these leaks hold true, the Pixel 11 series isn’t about raw speed — it’s about smarter performance, better efficiency, and AI features that actually improve how you use your phone. For Pixel fans, this could be the most meaningful upgrade in years.