Google hasn't done this yet. Pixel 10a reportedly to get older processor and lose some AI features

The Pixel A series has built a reputation over the years for offering the best of the Google ecosystem at a reasonable price. However, the first leaks about the upcoming Pixel 10a suggest that Google might be taking cost-cutting too far. Instead of the traditional deployment of the latest hardware, the next cheaper Pixel is expected to settle for last year’s Tensor G4 chipset.

End of a tradition? Pixel 10a to remain a generation behind

Until now, a simple rule applied – cheaper Pixel A series phones received the same processor as their more expensive siblings. This year, the Pixel 9a runs on Tensor G4, just like the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. But next year will be different. While the flagship Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro received the new Tensor G5 manufactured by TSMC, the cheaper Pixel 10a will, according to leaks, make do with a recycled Tensor G4.

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Why this change? The answer is prosaic – money. Moving the production of Tensor chipsets from Samsung to Taiwan’s TSMC means significantly higher costs. And Google apparently doesn’t want that to be reflected in the final price.

Cutting costs wherever possible

However, the Tensor G4 isn’t the only area where Google will cut corners. According to leaks, the Pixel 10a is expected to stick with older UFS 3.1 memory, while competitors commonly use faster and more efficient UFS 4.0. For the average user, this practically means slower app loading and worse energy efficiency when working with data.

Another victim of cost-cutting measures is the telephoto lens. Google had reserved it only for more expensive models, but this year the basic Pixel 10 received it.

AI features? Forget some of them

At a time when all manufacturers are cramming artificial intelligence into phones wherever they can, Google is cutting costs here too with the Pixel 10a. The new Magic Cue feature, which provides real-time contextual information during calls and chats (not yet available in Czech), simply won’t be in the cheaper model. This is actually logical – the older Tensor G4 likely doesn’t have enough power for it.

The only positive so far remains a slightly brighter display – from 2000 nits on the Pixel 9a to 2200 nits. However, this is a weak patch for all the other compromises.

Does this still make sense?

Google is trying to keep the price of the Pixel 10a at the same level as previous generations. However, in 2026, when the phone is expected to hit the market, this strategy could be counterproductive. Why buy a new Pixel 10a with old hardware when, at the same time, it will be possible to get a year-old Pixel 9/10 for a similar price?

The Pixel A series gained fans by offering premium features at an affordable price. Now it seems Google wants to offer last year’s features at this year’s price. And that no longer sounds so appealing. Perhaps it would be better to increase the price and maintain quality, rather than cutting corners everywhere and risking losing customer trust.

What do you think of this decision by Google?

Source: Mystic Leaks, notebookcheck