Pixel 10a launches globally, but the biggest changes aren’t in the hardware

Google has officially launched the Pixel 10a globally, and it brings flagship-like software and camera features to a more affordable price point. While it's true, the phone looks very familiar on the outside, the Pixel 10a has introduced a mix of sustainability improvements, brighter display tech, and faster charging. Although some of its decisions aren’t clear, more on the iterative side than any big transformations. Anyway, let’s dive into this article, where I will discuss more about the Google Pixel 10a, its availability, and expected price in Nepal.

Google Pixel 10a Overview

Design and Sustainability

One of the biggest talking points this year is sustainability. Google says the Pixel 10a uses more recycled materials than any previous A-series Pixel. It’s the first model in the lineup to incorporate recycled cobalt, copper, gold, and tungsten, with at least 36% recycled materials by weight. The aluminum frame is made from 100% recycled metal, the back panel uses 81% recycled plastic, and even the packaging is completely plastic-free.

Design-wise, Google sticks to a very familiar look. The Pixel 10a closely resembles the Pixel 9a, but one highlight is the nearly flush camera module. Alongside the flat design, Google says, this will reduce the wobble when placed on a table. Moreover, the rear panel uses plastic, but it’s also mostly recycled. 

Similarly, durability is also improved. It comes with IP68 water and dust resistance and Gorilla Glass 7i on the front. The internal layout has also been apparently redesigned. And the phone comes in four colors: Fog, Obsidian, Berry, and Lavender. The palette is similar to the Pixel 9a.

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Display

The Pixel 10a features a 6.3-inch Actua display, similar in size to its predecessor. The big upgrade here is brightness, with peak levels reaching 3,000 nits, up from 2,700 nits previously. You are going to get a 120Hz panel with resolutions of 2424 x 1080 pixels. 

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Pixel 10a runs on the Tensor G4 chipset, which is the same processor used in the Pixel 9 series. It’s built on Samsung’s 4nm process and paired with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage.

On the software side, the phone ships with Android 16 and promises seven years of updates, including Android upgrades, security patches, and Pixel Drop feature updates. As expected, AI features like Gemini assistant and Gemini Live are included out of the box.

Cameras 

The camera hardware remains unchanged from the previous generation. It features a 48MP main sensor and a 13MP ultra-wide camera. You still don’t get a telephoto lens here.  But there are indeed some new AI-driven features like Camera Coach, which offers shooting suggestions, Auto Best Take for group photos, and Add Me, which lets you merge yourself into group shots after taking the photo.

Battery and Charging

The battery is still relatively weak compared to Chinese smartphones. The Pixel 10a packs a 5,100mAh battery, which is understandable due to regulations. Still, Google claims the device can last up to 30 hours of regular use

However, charging speeds have improved compared to the previous model. Wired charging now goes up to 30W, while wireless charging is rated at 10W. Interestingly, Google has also skipped magnets entirely, meaning no magnetic charging accessories or snap-on ecosystems.

Pixel 10a Specifications

• Design, build: Aluminum frame (100% recycled), plastic back (81% recycled), IP68 rating, Gorilla Glass 7i, flat back with near-flush camera module
• Display: 6.3-inch Actua display, up to 3,000 nits peak brightness
• Chipset: Google Tensor G4 (Samsung 4nm)
• Memory: 8GB RAM, 128GB / 256GB storage
• Software & UI: Android 16, 7 years of updates, Gemini AI features and Pixel Drops
• Rear Camera: 48MP main + 13MP ultra-wide, AI photography features
• Front Camera: Not officially highlighted (expected similar to Pixel 9a class)
• Security: IP68 durability, long-term software security updates
• Connectivity: USB-C, wireless charging (10W), no magnetic charging support
• Sensors: Standard Pixel sensor suite with AI-assisted camera and ambient detection
• Battery: 5,100mAh, 30W wired charging, 10W wireless charging

Google Pixel 10a Price in Nepal and Availability

In India, the phone is priced at INR 50,000 for the 8GB + 128GB model. Pre-orders have already started, and availability begins March 6. 

• Check out our review of the Google Pixel 10a here