Prime Highlights:
- Google introduced the Pixel 10a, a sub-$500 smartphone that brings advanced AI camera features and Satellite SOS safety tools to its budget lineup.
- The launch positions the device ahead of the anticipated debut of Apple’s next entry-level iPhone, expanding competition in the mid-range smartphone market.
Key Facts:
- The Pixel 10a features a 3-inch Actua display, runs on the Tensor G4 processor, and includes a 48MP main camera and 13MP ultrawide lens, with up to 30 hours of battery life (120 hours on Extreme Battery Saver).
- Google will provide seven years of software and security updates, and the device begins shipping March 5 in Lavender, Berry, Fog, and Obsidian colors.
Background:
Google on Wednesday introduced the Pixel 10a, its latest budget smartphone, adding artificial intelligence features and safety tools while keeping the price under $500.
The device is available for preorder now and will begin shipping on March 5. It comes in Lavender, Berry, Fog and Obsidian colour options and features a redesigned flat back where the camera module sits flush with the body.
The Pixel 10a includes a 6.3-inch Actua display that is 11% brighter than the previous generation and supports faster charging. Google said the phone can deliver more than 30 hours of battery life on a single charge and up to 120 hours when Extreme Battery Saver is enabled.
Powered by the Tensor G4 processor, the smartphone carries a 48-megapixel main camera and a 13-megapixel ultrawide lens. Google is bringing several AI camera tools from its flagship Pixel lineup to the A-series for the first time. These include Auto Best Take, which selects the best group photo automatically and Camera Coach, which offers real-time tips on framing and lighting.
The Pixel 10a adds Satellite SOS to the A-series. This feature lets users contact emergency services even when they do not have cellular or Wi-Fi service. As with recent Pixel devices, Google will provide seven years of software and security updates.
However, the phone does not include the PixelSnap magnetic wireless charging feature available on higher-end Pixel 10 models.
The launch comes ahead of the expected release of Apple’s next entry-level smartphone, the iPhone 17e, which is likely to carry a higher starting price.
Alongside the phone, Google announced new Berry and Fog colour options for the Pixel Buds 2a to match the Pixel 10a, strengthening its mid-range hardware portfolio.
