NEW YORK (EFE).— Google will put the Pixel 10a on sale today, the cheapest model in its line of smartphones, with a price of $499.
The launch occurs days after the announcement of Apple’s iPhone 17e, which will hit the market for $599, in direct competition within the mid-range segment.
Both companies seek to attract users who want to purchase more affordable devices without sacrificing advanced features.
At first glance, the Pixel 10a maintains a very similar design to the Pixel 9a. However, the new model eliminates the rear camera bump and now the two cameras are flush with the surface of the phone. This allows the device to sit completely flat on a table without the camera module protruding out.
Despite this change in design, Google managed to maintain a 5,100 mAh battery and improve the wired charging speed up to 30 W. The phone also includes 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of base storage. It also incorporates a 10% brighter screen, with peaks of 3,000 nits, and a Gorilla Glass 7i glass that offers greater resistance to bumps or scratches.
In this new generation Google decided to keep the Tensor G4 processor, the same as the previous model, instead of integrating the new Tensor G5 from the Pixel 10.
The company explained that the focus of the device is on offering a good experience with smart tools. “The Pixel 10a is the only phone in its category that offers the Pixel camera experience and Google AI features under $500,” the company noted during a pre-launch presentation.
Artificial intelligence also improves camera functions. The photography system uses Gemini AI for tools like Camera Coach, which offers lighting or framing recommendations, and the “Include Me” function, which allows you to intelligently add people to already taken group photos.
In addition, the device incorporates the SOS Via Satellite service in some regions, which allows you to contact emergencies when there is no mobile signal.
Apple had already announced the iPhone 17e, available starting next Wednesday the 11th, but with reservations from now on. The device includes the A19 chip and a C1X modem, which the company says offers greater power efficiency and speed.
“iPhone 17e combines powerful performance with user-friendly features, with a durable design and features that help you work and create more quickly,” said Kaiann Drance, Apple’s vice president of iPhone Marketing.