At first glance, the Google Pixel 10a looks almost identical to last year’s Pixel 9a.
It keeps the same familiar silhouette, the same 6.3-inch display size and the same Google Tensor generation powering everything under the hood.
So what’s actually changed?
Google hasn’t torn up the A-series blueprint. Instead, the Pixel 10a focuses on refinement — small but meaningful upgrades that improve day-to-day usability without dramatically altering the formula.
The most noticeable physical tweak is around the back. The Pixel 10a adopts a completely flat rear panel, with the camera bar sitting flush rather than protruding slightly. It’s a subtle adjustment, but it means the phone now lies flat on a table without wobbling, slides into pockets more easily and looks cleaner overall.
Up front, the 6.3-inch Actua display is now 11% brighter. Resolution and size remain unchanged, but the brightness bump should translate to better visibility outdoors and punchier HDR playback. It’s not headline-grabbing, but it’s one of the more practical upgrades.
Battery life figures are broadly similar, with Google quoting over 30 hours of standard use and up to 120 hours with Extreme Battery Saver enabled. Charging speeds, however, have been improved, now at 30W. It’s not transformative, but any reduction in time spent plugged into a wall is a positive at this price point.
Durability also gets a boost. The Pixel 10a now carries an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, paired with upgraded Corning Gorilla Glass 7i and a refined aluminium frame. That’s a notable step forward and arguably one of the most tangible improvements this year, though it’s just playing catch-up to most of the £499/$499 competition.
Google has also leaned further into sustainability. The 10a features recycled cobalt for the first time in the A-series, alongside recycled copper, gold and tungsten, a 100% recycled aluminium frame and an 81% recycled plastic back. It doesn’t alter the in-hand feel, but it pushes the environmental credentials forward.
There are new colour options too, with Lavender, Berry, Fog and Obsidian replacing last year’s palette.
On the software side, Satellite SOS arrives on the A-series for the first time, allowing users to contact emergency services without Wi-Fi or mobile coverage. It’s a meaningful addition that elevates the phone’s safety credentials.
Camera hardware remains familiar, with a 48MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide. The upgrades come via software, including Auto Best Take, Camera Coach and expanded Add Me support. As ever, Google is relying on computational photography rather than new sensors.
The Pixel 10a runs on the Tensor G4, the same chipset as the Pixel 9a, enabling Gemini Live, Circle to Search, AI photo editing, Call Screen and Hold For Me. It’s capable, but not a generational leap for existing Pixel users.
Overall, this is a refinement update rather than a reinvention. A flatter design, brighter display, faster charging, tougher build, Satellite SOS and expanded AI tools form the core changes. Everything else remains reassuringly familiar.
For new buyers, it’s arguably the most complete A-series device yet. For Pixel 9a owners, the upgrades may feel incremental rather than essential. At £499/$499, though, Google is clearly betting that steady polish still wins in the mid-range market.
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