For years, Google‘s “a-series” phones have been a go-to for many users. They usually offer a balanced mix of top-tier Pixel software and an affordable price. The line has consistently been an ideal gateway for new users to Pixel phones. That said, the latest leak about the upcoming Google Pixel 10a suggests that it will be quite boring regarding improvements.
The Pixel 10a is still many months away from its official debut. However, a new report from Mystic Leaks reveals very few changes compared to its predecessor. More specifically, the leak offers key details about the tech specs of the Google Pixel 10a.
Google Pixel 10a tipped to use the old Tensor G4 chipset
According to the leak, Google will be using older hardware in the Google Pixel 10a to keep costs down. The device would use the Tensor G4 chip from last year’s Pixel 9 series. This would mark the third straight year this processor has appeared in a mid-range Pixel device. This approach is different from previous “Pixel a” phones, where Google used the same chip from the main lineup—just slightly underclocked.
Regarding storage, the new phone could also stick with UFS 3.1 storage. This standard is a full generation behind the faster UFS 4.0 found in most new phones. This decision could impact everything from app load times and file transfers to the overall responsiveness of the system. That said, this could be an “understandable” compromise in the most affordable family model.
No telephoto and Magic Cue
Furthermore, the device could miss out on a telephoto camera. So, 2026 will be another year where “Pixel a” devices will not offer a dedicated zoom sensor. This might be expected considering that the vanilla Pixel 10 is the first “non-Pro” variant to receive a zoom sensor.
Magic Cue will be another missing feature from the upcoming Pixel 10a. If you’re not aware, Magic Cue is Google’s new on-device AI feature that provides live, contextual information during calls and chats. For example, Magic Cue could offer a quick suggestion or relevant info during a live conversation.
Brighter screen
The only potential bright spot in the report is the display. According to the specs leak, the Google Pixel 10a might see a slight bump to 2,200 nits, making it a touch brighter than the Pixel 9a’s 2,000 nits.
For now, these are just rumors, and Google could still change its plans before the Pixel 10a officially launches. However, all signs suggest that the next budget-friendly Pixel may prioritize cost-cutting over meaningful performance upgrades.
The post The Google Pixel 10a Specs May Be a Bummer for Pixel Fans appeared first on Android Headlines.
