Google Launches Pixel 11 Pro Phones With Price Hikes and Trade-Offs

Google has launched its new flagship smartphones, the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL, marking an incremental update to its premium lineup. The devices, which are available for preorder and in stores starting August 20, feature a new Tensor G6 processor, enhanced camera systems, and a suite of new AI-powered software features. However, the launch comes with a universal price increase across the series and some notable hardware trade-offs compared to the previous generation.

The Pixel 11 Pro starts at $1,099 for the 256GB model, while the larger Pixel 11 Pro XL begins at $1,299. This represents a $100 increase over the equivalent Pixel 10 Pro models. In the UK, the Pro starts at £1,079 and the Pro XL at £1,279. Google has eliminated the 128GB storage option, making 256GB the new base configuration for both Pro models. A significant change is the reduction in base RAM; the entry-level 256GB versions of both phones now come with 12GB of RAM, down from 16GB in the previous generation. Models with 512GB or 1TB of storage retain 16GB of RAM.

Design changes are subtle. Both phones maintain the signature camera bar aesthetic, now with a full glass fill for a more refined look. They are...