Google Pixel 10a launches with Tensor G5 and a focus on recycled materials

Google launches the Pixel 10a featuring the Tensor G5 chip, a 3,000-nit Actua display, and recycled materials. Explore the latest specs and durability updates.

The wait is finally over! A few months after the initial leaks began to circulate , the Google Pixel 10a is officially here. For those who have been tracking the rumor mill, the device doesn’t offer many shocks; instead of a complete overhaul, Google has refined the familiar specifications of its predecessor while leaning heavily into software enhancements to define the experience.

#Google Pixel 10a

Visually, the Pixel 10a retains the 6.3-inch Actua display, but with a notable improvement in luminance. Google has boosted the peak brightness to 3,000 nits, a step up from the 2,700 nits found on the Pixel 9a. As expected, the device maintains its reliable IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.

One of the most practical updates focuses on durability. The Pixel 10a has moved on from Gorilla Glass 3, now utilizing Gorilla Glass 7i for screen protection. According to Google, this upgrade offers superior scratch resistance and ensures the glass can survive drops from up to 1 meter (3.3 feet).

As is typical with Google’s hardware, the software experience is the true centerpiece. The Pixel 10a ships with Android 16 out of the box, backed by an industry-leading promise of seven years of software updates. The phone is also deeply integrated with Google’s AI ecosystem, featuring suites ranging from the Gemini Assistant to Gemini Live.

Under the hood, however, the hardware remains consistent with the previous generation. The Pixel 10a is powered by the same Tensor G4 chipset found in the Pixel 9a. The memory and storage configurations also remain unchanged, offering 8GB of RAM paired with either 128GB or 256GB of storage.

#Google Pixel 10a

The camera system also sees a hardware carry-over, featuring a 48MP main rear lens, a 13-megapixel ultra-wide sensor, and a 13MP selfie camera. The upgrades here are entirely software-driven, with new AI features such as Camera Coach, Auto Best Take, and Add Me.

Google Pixel 10a vs Pixel 9a: What’s different? The primary distinction for the Pixel 10a lies in its design and construction. The back panel is now crafted from 81% recycled plastic. To complement the device, Google has introduced a new Pixel 10a Case made from 36 percent recycled plastic, color-matched to the phone. Note that neither the device nor the case includes built-in magnets.

Google claims the Pixel 10a utilizes more recycled materials than any previous phone in the a-series. It is the first in the lineup to incorporate recycled cobalt, copper, gold, and tungsten, which collectively make up at least 36 percent of the product by weight. Additionally, the aluminum frame is sourced from 100 percent recycled material, and the packaging is entirely plastic-free.

The Google Pixel 10a is available in four distinct colors: Fog , Obsidian , Berry , and Lavender . Pricing remains competitive, starting at $499 in the US and Rs 50,000 in India for the 8/128GB variant. Pre-orders open today, with general availability starting on March 5.