While the Google Pixel 10 series continues to dominate headlines, attention is already shifting to the next generation of the company's popular 'a' series. A new leak has surfaced, providing an early and detailed look at the specifications for the upcoming Pixel 10a, suggesting Google may be taking an iterative approach to its next budget-friendly offering.
Early Certification Reveals Key Hardware Details
The Pixel 10a has reportedly appeared in Verizon's certification database, a process that often reveals key specifications before a device's official announcement. The listing, shared by noted leaker Evan Blass, details a device with the codename "STA5" (short for "Stallion"). According to the documentation, the phone is described as being "engineered by Google" to bring its AI features at a great value, aligning with the 'a' series' traditional positioning.
Reported Google Pixel 10a Specifications (Per Verizon Leak):
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.3-inch FHD+ Plastic AMOLED, 60Hz/120Hz refresh rate |
| Rear Camera | 48MP (Primary, f/1.7) + 13MP (Ultrawide, f/2.2) |
| Front Camera | 13MP (f/2.2) |
| RAM & Storage | 8GB RAM, 128GB storage (non-expandable) |
| Battery | 5,100mAh |
| Codename | STA5 ("Stallion") |
| Network | LTE Cat 19 support |
Specifications Suggest a Familiar Formula
The leaked specifications paint a picture of a device that is remarkably similar to its predecessor, the Pixel 9a. The listing points to a 6.3-inch FHD+ plastic AMOLED display capable of switching between 60Hz and 120Hz refresh rates. The camera system is said to consist of a 48MP primary sensor, a 13MP ultrawide lens, and a 13MP front-facing camera. Internally, the phone is listed with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of non-expandable storage, powered by a sizable 5,100mAh battery. These specs are identical to the Pixel 9a, leading to speculation that the listing may contain placeholder information, though Google's history suggests minimal year-over-year spec bumps for the 'a' line are possible.
Potential Upgrades and Lingering Questions
Beyond the core specs from the certification, other rumors hint at where Google might focus its limited upgrades. The most significant potential change is the adoption of a brighter display, with reports suggesting it could reach up to 2,000 nits for improved outdoor visibility. There is also ongoing speculation about a modem upgrade to the newer Exynos 5400, which could address long-standing user complaints about connectivity and thermal efficiency in previous Tensor-powered Pixels. The chipset itself is expected to remain the Tensor G4 from the Pixel 9 series, which may limit access to some of the newer, more computationally intensive AI features introduced with the flagship Pixel 10 models.
Rumored Upgrades & Context:
- Chipset: Expected to use the Tensor G4 (same as Pixel 9a).
- Modem: Potential upgrade to Exynos 5400 modem.
- Display Brightness: Rumored to reach up to 2,000 nits (upgrade from Pixel 9a).
- Positioning: Marketed as bringing "Google AI at a great value."
The Strategic Implications of an Iterative Update
If the leaked specifications hold true, the Pixel 10a appears to be shaping up as a conservative, specification-led update. This strategy allows Google to maintain a competitive price point while leveraging software and AI optimizations as key differentiators. The focus seems to be on refining the existing formula—improving display quality and modem performance—rather than a wholesale redesign or major hardware leap. For consumers, this means the Pixel 10a will likely offer a very familiar experience, with its appeal resting heavily on the promised "great value" of Google's AI ecosystem and clean software, rather than groundbreaking new hardware.