Google’s latest budget-friendly smartphone, the Pixel 10a, has just been unveiled, but early impressions suggest it feels too similar to its predecessor, the Pixel 9a. While Google designed the 10a to slot between the Pixel 9a and the flagship Pixel 10, a The Verge hands-on review argues it ends up being more of a “9a 2.0” than a true successor or an accessible Pixel 10 alternative.

Minimal Upgrades, Maximum Familiarity

On paper, the Pixel 10a brings only modest upgrades over the Pixel 9a — and in many ways, feels almost the same device. Both phones share the Tensor G4 processor, 8 GB of RAM and dual rear cameras with a 48 MP wide lens and a 13 MP ultrawide sensor. That internal continuity means the 10a doesn’t unlock many of the newer AI features or performance boosts found in the higher-end Pixel 10 series.

Design-wise, the two models are also strikingly alike — with flat edges, a 6.3-inch pOLED display with up to 120 Hz refresh rate, and a familiar form factor. The bezels are slightly narrower and the screen glass tougher thanks to Gorilla Glass 7ibut the overall look and feel remain close to the 9a.

Missing Premium Features from Pixel 10

While Pixel 10A is marketed as an entry point into Google’s Pixel 10 ecosystem, many flagship features fail to trickle down. The more advanced Pixel 10-series AI tools — including the Magic Cue routines and more robust on-device AI processing — aren’t supported due to the older chipset and limited RAM headroom. This means users may enjoy a solid Android experience, but not the “next-gen” Pixel magic promised elsewhere.

Some premium tech like satellite SOS emergency features has been included — a rare perk at this price — but other hardware leaps (like enhanced cameras or cutting-edge AI tools) remain exclusive to the pricier Pixels.

A Smart Budget Pick — But Not a Gamechanger

For buyers seeking a dependable mid-range phone with clean Android software and long-term updates, the Pixel 10a still ticks the essentials. However, for anyone expecting a noticeable step up from the 9a — or a more affordable Pixel 10 experience — the device may feel like too much of the same rather than a bold upgrade.

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