Google has launched the Pixel 10a, a new midrange smartphone priced at $499 that brings several flagship-style features to the A-series line. The device focuses on durability, camera performance, and AI-powered tools, while keeping the price below $500 for users who want premium features without a high cost.
The Pixel 10a is the latest entry in Google’s affordable smartphone lineup, offering upgrades across design, battery life, display brightness, and AI features. It is powered by the Google Tensor G4 chip, which enables on-device AI tools and supports advanced camera processing along with Gemini-powered features.
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The design has been updated with a completely flat back and a camera bar that blends into the rear panel. Google says the phone is easier to pocket and sits flat when placed on a surface.
The frame uses 100 percent recycled aluminum with a satin finish, while the back panel uses recycled plastic materials. Color options include Lavender, Berry, Fog, and Obsidian.
The Pixel 10a includes IP68 water and dust resistance and upgraded Gorilla Glass 7i on the display for improved scratch and drop protection. It also introduces Satellite SOS support to the A-series for the first time, allowing users to contact emergency services when cellular or Wi-Fi connections aren’t available.
Pixel 10a display
The device features a 6.3-inch Actua display that is brighter than the previous model, making outdoor visibility better in direct sunlight. Battery performance has also been boosted, with more than 30 hours of usage on a full charge and up to 120 hours when Extreme Battery Saver is enabled.
Google is promising long-term software support, with seven years of operating system updates, security updates, and feature drops.
The Pixel 10a includes a 48MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide camera, with features like Macro Focus for close-up shots and Night Sight for low-light photography.
Several AI-powered camera tools are coming to the A-series for the first time. Auto Best Take analyzes multiple frames from a group photo to combine the best expressions into a single image, and Camera Coach uses Gemini models to provide suggestions for framing, lighting, and composition while shooting photos.
Editing tools inside Google Photos also allow users to make changes through voice or text prompts. Add Me returns as a way to include the photographer in group shots by combining multiple images into one final photo.
AI features extend beyond photography. Gemini integration enables conversational assistance via Gemini Live, while tools like Circle to Search let users highlight items on screen to quickly look up information. Dialer features such as Call Screen and Hold For Me continue to focus on filtering spam calls and reducing wait times during customer service calls.
The Pixel 10a starts at $499 and is available for pre-order now.
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