Google Pixel 10 Series May Ditch SIM Slot for Dual eSIMs: Report

Google's upcoming Pixel 10 series may drop the SIM slot in favor of dual eSIMs in some regions, with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold possibly retaining a hybrid SIM setup. The Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL may feature dual eSIM support without a physical SIM slot. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold may adopt a hybrid setup with both physical SIM and eSIM compatibility. The Pixel 10 series is expected to include four models, all powered by the Google Tensor G5 chipset. The lineup is expected to support 25W Qi2 magnetic wireless charging and a new "Pixelsnap" accessory lineup.

Google is reportedly planning significant changes to its Pixel 10 series, potentially dropping physical SIM card support in favor of dual eSIMs in some regions. According to recent rumors, the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL may not include a physical SIM slot, instead featuring dual eSIM support [1]. This move follows Apple's strategy, where newer iPhones in the US support only eSIMs. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold, however, may retain a hybrid setup with both physical SIM and eSIM compatibility [2].

The Pixel 10 series is expected to include four models—Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold—all powered by the Google Tensor G5 chipset, which is manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm process. The chipset is anticipated to deliver better performance and efficiency, along with a new custom image signal processor (ISP) aimed at enhancing photo and video quality [2].

The upcoming devices are also likely to support 25W Qi2 magnetic wireless charging and a new "Pixelsnap" accessory lineup, which could include magnetic wireless chargers and cases. Google has already previewed the Pixel 10 Pro in a blue-grey tone, likely called "Moonstone," while the base variant may arrive in a new "Indigo" shade [2].

In terms of software, the Pixel 10 series is expected to launch with Android 16 and introduce new Gemini-powered AI features, such as "Camera Coach" and a conversational Photo Editing tool. These features aim to enhance user experience by providing real-time photography tips and allowing users to make changes to images simply by describing what they want adjusted [2].

The Pixel 10 series is expected to be available in fresh color options and may include battery capacity upgrades, with the Pixel 10 Pro XL potentially rivaling large Android phones in battery size. Additionally, the lineup might support Qi2 wireless charging, which could improve charging efficiency and reduce heat buildup [3].

Overall, Google's potential shift to dual eSIMs and hybrid setups in the Pixel 10 series marks a significant departure from traditional SIM card technology. While this move aligns with the industry trend towards eSIMs, it remains to be seen how well the new setup will be received by consumers. The upcoming devices are expected to be launched on August 20, 2025, with global availability following soon after [2].

References:
[1] https://9to5google.com/2025/08/08/pixel-10-series-physical-sim-card-rumor/
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/technology/tech-news/google-pixel-10-series-may-drop-sim-slot-in-favour-of-dual-esims-report-125081100654_1.html
[3] https://www.phonearena.com/news/pixel-10-battery-charging_id170142