The rumors say there's nothing incredibly new coming to the Pixel 10a compared to its predecessor. For most users, that's enough.
I've been thrown off my rocker this year by the delayed announcement of the Samsung Galaxy flagship. By now, we would have had Samsung's latest smartphone, setting the stage for the rest of the mobile industry. Instead, we had a quieter start. And we're still waiting on Samsung to tell us when to expect the Galaxy S26.
I suggest shifting the gaze to the Pixel 10a for now, which has taken the rumor mill by storm this week. The big-bang-for-your-buck smartphone is expected to feature an even flatter camera design than last year and an improved AI-focused Tensor chipset, all priced around the same as Apple's economical iPhone (are we calling it the E-series?). We're expected to see the smartphone go on pre-order right after Valentine's Day in four colors, including two new colors called Fog and Lavender.
The Google Pixel A-series has been a major success for Google in terms of hardware sales. Granted, it was four generations ago that Google lauded the best-selling Pixel 6a, but the model's mere existence has helped Google find some growth in an increasingly crowded and volatile smartphone market. The A-series is popular among users who want a "flagship-like" experience without spending a hefty sum.
However, the Pixel 10a is unlikely to be a major leap in smartphone releases. Much of the leaked specification sheet suggests only a slight bump. The Pixel 9a's 48-MP and 13-MP rear cameras are likely to be reprised in the 10a. We're also expecting better durability and, thanks to a "boosted" Tensor G4, improved camera algorithms.
While we wait for Samsung to break the silence on what's next at Unpacked, Google's Pixel 10a is effectively holding the line for Android hardware fans right now. It's a curious position for a mid-tier phone to be in, especially one marketed as merely an "encore" rather than a major hinge product. At least Google doesn't have to share the stage with its very cooperative frenemy.
I'm appearing more regularly on Android Faithful! This week, I joined Jason and Huyen to discuss the Android desktop leaks and why the Nvidia Shield is still the best set-top box for your TV, ten years and counting.
