Google’s “a-series” Pixel phones have long been popular for offering a balance of flagship Pixel software experience at a more affordable price point. However, recent leaks about the upcoming Google Pixel 10a suggest that the next budget-friendly Pixel might disappoint fans longing for significant upgrades.
Reusing Older Hardware to Cut Costs
According to leaks from Mystic Leaks, the Pixel 10a will reportedly reuse the Tensor G4 chip from last year’s Pixel 9 series. This marks the third consecutive year that Google has utilized the same processor in its mid-range “a” series, diverging from its previous practice of matching the main Pixel’s chipset (albeit slightly underclocked).
On the storage front, the Pixel 10a is expected to feature UFS 3.1 storage rather than the faster UFS 4.0 found in many contemporary smartphones. This compromise could affect app load times, file transfers, and overall system responsiveness—likely a tradeoff to maintain affordability in the entry-level model.
Missing Key Features: No Telephoto or Magic Cue
The leak also reveals that the Pixel 10a will lack a telephoto camera, continuing a trend where “a” series devices skip dedicated zoom sensors. This leaves the vanilla Pixel 10 as the first non-Pro Pixel to include zoom capabilities, highlighting a gap in the budget handset’s camera features.
Additionally, the upcoming Pixel 10a is expected to miss out on Magic Cue, Google’s new on-device AI feature that offers real-time contextual assistance during calls and chats. For example, Magic Cue can suggest helpful information or quick responses based on the conversation, an innovation Pixel fans may find disappointing to miss.
A Slight Brightness Boost in Display
There is one glimmer of hope in the display department: the Pixel 10a might feature a peak brightness of 2,200 nits, slightly brighter than the 2,000 nits of the Pixel 9a. This improvement could enhance outdoor visibility and overall display quality.
What This Means for Pixel Fans
These rumored specs paint the Pixel 10a as more of a modest update than a significant upgrade, suggesting Google is prioritizing cost efficiency over cutting-edge performance and feature additions. For users seeking the latest tech and AI enhancements, the Pixel 10a may fall short.
However, it’s worth noting that these details are based on leaks and rumors. Google could still make changes before the official launch, scheduled many months from now.