Apple and Samsung are reportedly working on ultra-thin phone designs, while Google's Pixel 10 is not expected to follow suit.

Last week, the iPhone Air finally broke cover and joined the Galaxy S25 Edge in what seems to be the next smartphone trend. Very thin phones.
Tecno previewed the slim phone trend at MWC with the 5.75 mm Spark Slim prototype. The Galaxy S25 Edge (5.8 mm) and the iPhone Air (5.6 mm) suggest this trend is more than just a concept.
Why isn't there a super-thin Pixel 10 Slim? Several factors explain the absence of a thin Pixel, and why one may not appear soon.
Google was late to the foldable market. Samsung released the Galaxy Fold in 2019, but the first Pixel Fold didn't arrive until 2023.
The company avoids risks with new designs, which is unfortunate considering Google's history of innovation (like the modular ARA phone).
Many past ideas are now abandoned, so it's not surprising Google isn't rushing into the thin phone category.
Pixel phones prioritize a specific design.
Recent Pixel models all feature a prominent camera bump. Starting with the Pixel 6's Camera Bar, it evolved into the oval housing on the Pixel 9 and 10 series.
Google's design director, Claude Zellweger, defended the Pixel 9's large camera, stating that Google prioritizes camera performance, even if it means a thicker phone.
This focus conflicts with the idea of an ultra-thin phone. The Pixel 10 Pro, the thinnest in the lineup, is 8.5 mm thick, without including the camera bump (around 11 mm).
Apple's iPhone Air benefits from its camera setup. As one of the few companies still offering single-camera phones (like the iPhone SE and iPhone 16e), Apple can easily use this approach for the iPhone Air.
The last Pixel with a single camera, the Pixel 3, was released in 2018, over seven years ago.
While a single camera isn't required for a thin phone (the Galaxy S25 Edge has two), it saves space.
Google has the resources to create a super-thin phone if desired.
The lack of a Pixel 10 Slim is likely due to the factors mentioned and uncertain demand.
The Galaxy S25 Edge sold approximately 650,000 units in its first month and around 1 million total. Compared to the 20+ million units sold of the entire S25 family, consumer interest in thin phones appears limited.
Reports suggest the S25 Edge sales are below expectations, leading to production cuts in some markets.
Official pre-order numbers for the iPhone Air aren't available, but sales may not be exceptional. The "thin" factor may not be enough, given the compromises involved (Apple even revived the MagSafe battery pack to address one issue).
Google might change its plans if the thin-phone trend becomes popular and the iPhone Air and Galaxy S25 Edge sell well. However, it would take time, and a super-thin Pixel 11 is unlikely.
Do you think Google should make a thin phone? Have you ever wished your Pixel was thinner? Vote in our poll and share your opinions in the comments.