About a year ago, poll results for the Pixel 9a revealed that while the hardware was impressive, consumers had concerns regarding its price. Fortunately, we have seen numerous deals on the 9a recently, effectively addressing that issue.
Now, let’s shift our focus to the new Google Pixel 10a, which will launch at the same price as its predecessor, the 9a: $500/£500/€550/₹50,000 for the 8GB/128GB model, available starting March 6. Interestingly, there are several similarities between the two models.
Let’s highlight the upgrades. The Pixel 10a features a more durable Gorilla Glass 7i (upgraded from GG3) and maintains the same IP68 rating, boasting an aluminum frame and plastic back. It retains the 5,100mAh battery but now supports faster charging: 30W wired (increased from 23W) and 10W wireless (up from 7.5W). However, the 10a does not include Pixelsnap magnets, which are present in the other Pixel 10 models.
Google Pixel 10a Color Options
The OLED display size remains at 6.3 inches, but its peak brightness has been enhanced to 3,000 nits (up from 2,700 nits). It continues to utilize an LTPS panel and an optical fingerprint reader. Additionally, the inclusion of satellite SOS messaging may be a significant upgrade over the 9a for some users (note that this feature is only available in select regions).
This wraps up the upgrades—the Pixel 10a is powered by the same Samsung-made Tensor G4 chipset as last year’s model, coupled with 8GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of storage. The camera specifications remain unchanged, featuring a 48MP main camera, a 13MP ultra-wide lens, and a 13MP front camera.
Google Pixel 10a: Same 48+13MP Cameras • Gemini is Key
The 10a will come with Android 16 out of the box, providing it with an additional OS update compared to the 9a. However, both phones will receive 7 years of updates from their respective launches, which may exceed the duration for which the hardware remains relevant (consider Android 23 on a G4 chip with 8GB of RAM).
If you currently own a Pixel 9a, there may not be significant motivation to upgrade to the 10a. But for those with an 8a or any other smartphone—will you consider purchasing the Pixel 10a?
