Pixel 10 launch might happen sooner than expected; Google also preparing support for theme packs with Android 16

Google fans have plenty to look forward to this summer. Reports suggest the Pixel 10 could arrive much sooner than anyone expected. At the same time, Android 16 is gearing up to bring theme packs that let you change your phone’s look with a single tap.

Early Pixel 10 launch hints

Google has sent out invitations to its Pixel Superfans program for a special event on June 27. This is notable because in recent years, Pixel launches have tended to happen in October. Last year, however, Google moved the Pixel 9 debut up to August. Now it seems the Pixel 10 might arrive as early as late June or early July.

As highlighted by Android Authority and a post on Reddit, the invitation doesn’t explicitly say “Pixel 10,” but that is by far the most likely focus of the event. The move from October to August felt significant when it happened. Now, shifting to June would be an even bigger change in the launch cycle.

The key detail is that Android 16 is expected to reach stable status in early June. That means Google could pair its software reveal with a hardware announcement just weeks later. For Pixel enthusiasts, this is thrilling news. The shift to a Tensor G5 chip produced by TSMC could mark the biggest performance jump the Pixel line has ever seen.

If Google is already setting up a late June event, it likely has confidence in its new chipset’s readiness. Of course, there is a small chance that Google may be saving some other surprise to show off. But with Android 16 right around the corner, plus the historical trend of moving launches earlier, and even promotional material almost ready, an early Pixel 10 debut seems all but certain.

Android 16 to bring support for theme packs

Alongside the likely hardware reveal, Google is preparing a new “Pixel themes” feature in Android 16. Android Authority first spotted this in the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 build. Inside the updated “Wallpaper & Style” app, there are new strings hinting at a “Themes” menu.

That menu is set to appear in both the Lock Screen and Home Screen sections of the app. The description reads “Discover Pixel themes,” which suggests these theme packs could bundle wallpapers, icons, sounds, and more into a single package.

Right now, applying a custom look on a Pixel means changing each element one by one. Wallpaper, icon shapes, accent colors, and even sounds must be tweaked individually. Theme packs promise to simplify that process. When you pick a pack, everything updates at once.

It could also mean Google curates sets of visuals that work well together. In the code, the “Themes” button tries to launch an app called “Pixel Customization Packs.” That app is not yet live in the beta, so nobody knows exactly what Google has in store. It is unclear if Google plans to let third parties create and share themes or if it will stick to offering only its own designs.

Still, the idea of Pixel themes is exciting for anyone who likes to change their phone’s appearance. It brings Pixel more in line with other Android brands that already provide built-in theme stores. For years, Pixels have trailed those rivals when it comes to customization. Now Google appears ready to close that gap.

As a Pixel user, I’d love to see Google open up the theme pack support for third-parties too. This would ensure that we have a lot more customization options to choose from. Either way, any customization is welcome.

Conclusion

Taken together, these updates show Google is moving faster than ever. An earlier Pixel 10 launch means Google can get its newest hardware into customers’ hands close to Android 16’s release. On the software side, theme packs could finally give Pixel users a quick and easy way to personalize their device. If the rumors hold true, June and July will be action-packed months for anyone who cares about Google’s ecosystem.

Featured image credit: MarksGonePublic / X (post now deleted)