Unlock the full potential of your Google Pixel 10 with these 10 essential apps. From photography and design to security and file sharing, these apps enhance productivity, creativity, and convenience.
The Google Pixel 10 series has officially landed, ushering in a new era for Google’s smartphone lineup. With the Tensor G5 chip powering the show, the Pixel 10 family—which includes the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and the foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold—feels faster and more capable than ever. But great hardware always deserves equally great software.
If you’ve just unboxed your Pixel 10, here are 10 must-have apps to make the most of your new device:
1. Open Camera – For Photography Freedom
Think of this as an upgrade to the stock camera app. Open Camera is packed with features you won’t find by default—including remote shutter controls (yes, you can snap a pic just by making a sound). Photography enthusiasts will love the extra creative options, while casual users will appreciate how open-source and ad-free it is.
2. Canva – Quick, Hassle-Free Design
Whether you’re editing photos or designing an Instagram Reel, Canva makes the process simple. Beyond basic photo edits, it lets you create posters, flyers, logos, resumes, and more. The app is lightweight and runs beautifully on the Pixel 10’s hardware, making DIY design surprisingly fun.
3. Adobe Lightroom – Master the Details
If Canva is for quick edits, Lightroom is for precision. Built for those who want deeper aesthetic control, the app gives you access to advanced editing tools—contrast, exposure, highlights, shadows—plus presets for one-tap style changes. PC users familiar with Photoshop will feel at home with its interface.
4. Backdrops – Endless Wallpaper Inspiration
Bored of the same wallpaper? Backdrops gives you thousands to choose from, with both professional backdrops and community submissions. There’s even a Wall of the Day to freshen up your screen daily. And if you’re a budding photographer, you can upload your own creations for others to enjoy.
5. Quick Cursor – One-Handed Control
With large phones like the Pixel 10 Pro XL, one-handed use can be tricky. Quick Cursor solves this by placing a floating cursor on your screen, controlled with minimal thumb movement. It feels intuitive, customizable, and quickly becomes second nature on bigger displays.
6. Google Authenticator – Safer Sign-Ins
Security comes first. Google Authenticator lets you enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your accounts without relying on SMS-based OTPs. Instead, it generates secure temporary codes right on your phone, giving you stronger control over your online identity.
7. 1Password – Smarter Password Management
Struggling to remember dozens of passwords? 1Password stores them securely and auto-fills them when needed. It also generates complex new passwords and even manages multi-factor authentication codes—all stored across your devices. For Pixel 10 owners, this is a game-changer in both convenience and security.
8. FlashDim – Torchlight, but Better
Pixel phones come with a stock flashlight, but it’s basic. FlashDim lets you adjust brightness with 45 different levels, and even includes Morse Code and SOS flash patterns. You can map the torch toggle to volume buttons too, making it a handy, lifesaving little tool.
9. LocalSend – Easy File Transfers Across Devices
Tired of struggling with file transfers between Android and Apple devices? LocalSend is the AirDrop alternative you’ve been waiting for. It works over local WiFi, requires no third-party servers, and is cross-platform. Whether it’s a MacBook, iPhone, or iPad, LocalSend makes moving files seamless.
10. ChatGPT – Your AI Sidekick
From brainstorming recipes to summarizing PDF documents, ChatGPT works as a virtual assistant right in your pocket. Its conversational interface makes it easy to dive deep into topics, ask follow-up questions, or get quick answers—perfect for when you want an intelligent helping hand.
Final Word
The Pixel 10 series is loaded with performance muscle and AI smarts, but pairing it with the right apps unlocks a whole new level of productivity, creativity, and convenience. With these 10 essential apps, you’re fully equipped to get the best out of your brand-new Google flagship.