As Google's smartphone lineup marches forward, anticipation for its next budget-friendly "a-series" model is building. However, newly surfaced certification details for the Pixel 10a are painting a picture of surprising continuity rather than innovation. Based on a recent regulatory filing, the upcoming device appears to share its most critical specifications with its predecessor, the Pixel 9a, raising questions about its value proposition for the expected USD 499 price point.
Certified Specs Reveal a Familiar Hardware Package
A Verizon certification listing, shared by reliable tipster Evan Blass, has provided the first concrete look at the Pixel 10a's core specifications. The document confirms the device's name and outlines a hardware suite that is remarkably similar to the current Pixel 9a. Key confirmed components include a 6.3-inch FHD+ pOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 8GB of RAM, 128GB of non-expandable storage, and a 5,100mAh battery. The listing also notes the device's codename, "STA5" (Stallion), and confirms support for 5G and Google AI features.
Pixel 10a Certified Specifications (via Verizon Listing):
- Display: 6.285-inch (marketed as 6.3") FHD+ pOLED, 120Hz refresh rate (60Hz minimum)
- Memory: 8GB RAM
- Storage: 128GB (non-expandable)
- Battery: 5,100mAh
- Connectivity: 5G, Cat. 19 LTE
- Codename: STA5 (Stallion)
- Features: Google AI support
A Case of Deja Vu in Design and Performance
Beyond the certified specs, prior leaks suggest the Pixel 10a will continue the design language of the Pixel 9a. This includes a chassis with a plastic back, thick bezels, and the signature camera bar housing a dual-camera system. The layout of physical buttons and ports is also expected to remain unchanged. Perhaps most notably, the phone is rumored to be powered by a version of the Tensor G4 system-on-chip, the same silicon found in the Pixel 9a, albeit potentially with a higher clock speed. This combination of identical core specs and a familiar design strongly positions the Pixel 10a as an iterative update at best.
Comparison of Key Rumored/Leaked Specs: Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 9a
| Feature | Google Pixel 10a (Rumored/Leaked) | Google Pixel 9a (for reference) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.3" FHD+ pOLED, 120Hz | 6.3" FHD+ pOLED, 120Hz |
| RAM/Storage | 8GB / 128GB | 8GB / 128GB |
| Battery | 5,100mAh | 5,100mAh |
| SoC | Tensor G4 (higher clock rumored) | Tensor G4 |
| Design | Plastic back, camera bar, thick bezels | Plastic back, camera bar, thick bezels |
| Expected Price | ~ USD 499 | Launched at USD 499 |
| Software Support | 7 years (expected) | 7 years |
The Strategic Implications of a Minimal Upgrade
The apparent lack of major hardware upgrades presents a curious strategic move for Google. On one hand, it could streamline production and reduce costs, potentially protecting margins in the competitive budget segment. The company's traditional strengths, like promised seven years of software support, would remain key selling points. On the other hand, this strategy risks making the outgoing Pixel 9a an incredibly attractive bargain upon the Pixel 10a's launch, potentially cannibalizing sales of the new model. For consumers, the decision may come down to whether a newer model with identical core performance is worth the premium over a discounted predecessor.
Awaiting the Full Picture Before Judgment
While the leaked certification paints a clear picture of the foundational hardware, it is important to note that many details remain unknown. Google could differentiate the Pixel 10a through improvements in areas not covered by the filing, such as camera sensor technology, display brightness, software enhancements, or thermal management. The final pricing and launch timing, expected in spring 2026, will also be critical factors. Therefore, while the current evidence suggests a conservative upgrade path, a full assessment of the Pixel 10a's value must wait for its official unveiling and comprehensive reviews.