Google Pixel 10a may launch early in February with a $499 price, Tensor G4 processor, 5100 mAh battery, and new colors like Berry and Lavender.
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Google appears to be preparing an early announcement for its new Pixel 10a smartphone, potentially launching significantly earlier than usual. According to insider Roland Quandt, the company plans to move up the budget line's debut by nearly two months. Instead of the traditional spring launch at Google I/O, the device could hit stores around February 17. This move looks like a deliberate strategy shift, with Google aiming to capture the market early in the year before competitors release their flagship models in March.
The leak also revealed the Pixel 10a's color palette. Beyond the familiar Obsidian and Fog for more conservative buyers, Google is introducing two vibrant options. The standout will be a rich red called Berry, previously seen in Nest devices, complemented by a soft Lavender. This selection appears more lifestyle-oriented than previous generations. Memory capacity remains unchanged—the smartphone will come in 128GB and 256GB versions, just like the Pixel 9a.
The most debated detail concerns the processor. Rumors suggest the 10a will feature a refined Tensor G4 instead of the new Tensor G5 used in the flagship Pixel 10 series. This allows Google to maintain a starting price of $499 while preserving signature AI features and optimization. The screen is reportedly a 6.3-inch AMOLED with a 120Hz refresh rate, though thick bezels, based on renders, will likely remain.
However, the battery promises to be one of the device's key strengths. The Pixel 10a may pack a 5,100 mAh cell, potentially offering better battery life than the standard Pixel 10. In contrast, the cameras won't see a revolution—the main module stays at 48MP and the ultrawide at 13MP. Google is clearly betting on software, relying on imaging algorithms, HDR+, and an updated Magic Editor 2.0 rather than hardware upgrades.
This early launch underscores Google's effort to clearly segment its audience. The "a" series is increasingly becoming an affordable entry point into the Google ecosystem, emphasizing Gemini AI features without the flagship price tag. While the update may seem modest, the combination of a large battery, fresh colors, and a $499 price makes the Pixel 10a a compelling option in the mid-range segment.