Google has officially taken the wraps off its latest entry-level ‘affordable’ smartphone, the Pixel 10a, which is the successor to last year’s Pixel 9a. Starting at $679 CAD again, the new model sticks to the A-series formula of offering flagship features at a more accessible price point.
The Pixel 10a features a refined design with a completely flat back and a camera bar that sits completely flush with the body (not a tiny bump this time). The camera lens cover is made of glass. Google is also highlighting durability this year, using Gorilla Glass 7i for the display and maintaining an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The phone is powered by the same Tensor G4 chip found in the flagship Pixel 10 and includes 7 years of guaranteed software and security updates (just like the Pixel 9a got).
One of the most notable upgrades is the battery performance. The Pixel 10a now supports faster wired charging (30W), plus supports 10W wireless charging and is rated for more than 30 hours of battery life on a single charge. The 6.3-inch Actua display is also about 11% brighter than the previous generation, making it easier to see in direct sunlight.
Google explained to iPhone in Canada that the Pixel 10a is designed to offer the best possible experience for under $500 US by prioritizing essential features over cutting-edge hardware. To hit this aggressive price point, Google chose to use the Tensor G4 chip rather than the upcoming G5 and omitted premium additions like built-in magnets, which we know as its Pixel Snap feature.
However, Google emphasized multiple times the Pixel 10a does still have flagship AI tools like Circle to Search, Magic Editor, and Auto Best Take directly from the Pixel 10 Pro. New A-Series AI features include Camera Coach and Auto Best Take. The hardware also sees notable upgrades over the previous generation, including slimmer bezels on its brighter display, a more durable flush camera bar design, and improved charging speeds. Also, Satellite SOS is available on an A-series Google phone for the first time.
Alongside the phone, Google is releasing Pixel Buds 2a in two new colours, Berry and Fog, priced at $179 CAD. The Pixel 10a itself comes in four shades: Lavender, Berry, Fog, and Obsidian.
Pre-orders are open now for the Pixel 10a, with official retail availability starting on March 5.
There are also matching colour cases this year too (Lavender is below):
At $679 CAD in Canada again, the Pixel 10a again puts huge pressure on Apple’s entry iPhone 16e, which starts at $899.
We’ll have more on the Google Pixel 10a soon. Stay tuned.
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