Google on Wednesday unveiled its newest entry-level smartphone, the Google Pixel 10a, priced at $499.
The device introduces new AI-powered features and modest hardware upgrades, while largely mirroring its predecessor.
The Pixel 10a is available for preorder now, with shipments beginning March 5. It comes in Lavender, Berry, Fog, and Obsidian color options.
The Pixel 10a features a completely flat back, allowing the camera bar to blend seamlessly into the rear panel. The camera bump, already minimal on its predecessor, is now fully flush when placed on a surface.
It sports a 6.3-inch Actua display that Google says is 11% brighter than the previous generation. The protective glass has been upgraded from Gorilla Glass 3 to Gorilla Glass 7i.
Despite the brightness boost, the phone maintains the same size and weight as the Pixel 9a.
Performance and battery
The Pixel 10a runs on the Tensor G4 chip — the same processor used in last year’s A-series and previously in the Pixel 9 Pro lineup.
In contrast, the flagship Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro are powered by the newer Tensor G5 chip.
Battery performance remains a strong point. Google claims more than 30 hours of battery life on a single charge, extending up to 120 hours with Extreme Battery Saver enabled.
Charging speeds have improved, with wired charging increasing from 23W to 30W, and wireless charging rising from 7.5W to 10W.
Camera capabilities
The Pixel 10a features a 48MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide lens. Google describes it as the best camera system available on a smartphone under $500.
Several AI-powered camera features introduced on the Pixel 10 series are now arriving on the A-series.
AI camera features
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Auto Best Take: Captures multiple frames in a single press and automatically selects the best version of a group photo.
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Camera Coach: Offers step-by-step guidance on lighting and composition to improve shots.
Other software features include Call Screening, Clear Calling, Now Playing, and Gemini built-in as an assistant.
Satellite SOS
For the first time in the A-series, Satellite SOS is included in select regions. The feature allows users to contact emergency services even without Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity.
As with recent Pixel devices, the Pixel 10a will receive seven years of software and security updates — a level of support that remains rare in the mid-range Android segment.
What actually changed?
While the Pixel 10a carries a new name and color options, much of the hardware remains unchanged from the Pixel 9a.
The differences are limited to:
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A brighter display (around 10–11%)
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Upgraded Gorilla Glass protection
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Faster wired and wireless charging
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A fully flush camera design
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Satellite SOS in select markets
Core specifications — including cameras, battery capacity, chip, and display size — remain largely the same.
Market positioning
For years, the A-series offered buyers the same flagship chip found in the latest premium Pixel phones at a lower price. With the Pixel 10a retaining the Tensor G4 instead of upgrading to Tensor G5, that strategy appears to have shifted.
However, Google appears confident that its AI features, camera quality, extended software support, and ecosystem appeal will continue to attract buyers.
Industry observers suggest the Pixel 10a is likely to perform well among users upgrading from devices two or three generations older, where improvements will feel more significant regardless of chipset changes.
