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  • Who Should Buy the Pixel 10a?

    Who Should Buy the Pixel 10a?

    Now that the Pixel 10a is official, the conversation around whether or not you should buy one is heating up. The initial responses to Google’s announcement have not been as positive as I’m sure Google hoped, at least from our readers. Most are confused about this launch, since the phone is essentially an identical copy of the Pixel 9a.

    And our readers aren’t wrong. This new Pixel 10a is indeed a phone that is so similar to the Pixel 9a, that our list of new items was only reached a half-dozen or so. Almost none of the changes were major, in my opinion, and really show that Google kept things mostly the same to keep the price the same. Was that the right play? Eh, we’ll try to find that piece out when we get in a review unit.

    So with that all in mind, we thought we’d talk a little about who the Pixel 10a is for and whether or not it might be a good choice for you. We’ll keep this simple too, by asking if you own a phone and then follow-up by giving you a straight answer about upgrading.

    Do you own a Pixel 9a?

    No. You should not buy a Pixel 10a. This phone is too similar, has identical specs, and only lacks 3 software features from the Pixel 10a, all of which Google could greenlight for the Pixel 9a at any moment. If you have a Pixel 9a, keep going with it.

    Do you own a Pixel 8a?

    Upgrading might be worth considering. Google will currently give you $215 for it as a trade-in, which would then drop the price of the Pixel 10a to $284, plus you’ll get $100 in credits to spend on accessories or other Google goods. That’s a great price.

    The upgrades here are in the processor, as you jump to Tensor G4 from Tensor G3. You also get a notably larger battery (5100mAh vs. 4500mAh), IP68 dust and water resistance, faster wireless charging, a brighter display with stronger cover glass, and updates for another 2 years. I’m not sure the jump will be significant from a Pixel 8a to a Pixel 10a unless those extra 2 years of updates really sound appealing.

    Do you own a Pixel 7a or Pixel 6a?

    I would probably upgrade. Google will give you $175 for a Pixel 7a or $125 for a Pixel 6a. That would get you into a Pixel 10a for $324 or $374, both of which are great prices for a budget phone from Google.

    The upgrades are pretty substantial here, with jumps from original Tensor and Tensor G2 to a much newer Tensor G4. The Pixel 6a also only had 6GB RAM and no wireless charging, so you get upgrades to both on the 10a to 8GB RAM and the fastest wireless charging in an A-Series phone so far. The display on the Pixel 10a refreshes at 120Hz, while the 7a tops out at 90Hz and the 6a at 60Hz. You are also getting a ton of the newest AI and software features that both of those older phones lack and likely will never get access to.

    Again, the upgrade from these phones to a Pixel 10a will be big. However, if you find a Pixel 9a at some sort of screaming discount, then maybe just go for that instead.

    Do you own a Pixel 9 or Pixel 10 series phone?

    No, you would not buy a Pixel 10a, as your phone is steps above an A-Series phone.

    Do you own a Pixel 7 Pro or Pixel 8 Pro?

    This would not be an upgrade, as you are used to the “Pro” experience with flagship cameras, tons of RAM, and high-end displays. Unless you are on a limited budget, I wouldn’t change from one of those to a Pixel 10a and would instead try to find a great deal on a Pixel 9 Pro or Pixel 10 Pro.

    Do you own a Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7, or Pixel 8?

    These phones might be worth switching away from to a Pixel 10a. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 devices are only receiving quarterly updates as this point, and the Pixel 8 was kind of a disappointment. The Pixel 10a still might feel like a bit of a downgrade in terms of display, but it has a newer Tensor, is currently getting access to the top AI and Pixel software features, and will updated far more frequently.

  • Google Pixel Update Schedule: How Long Will My Phone Get Updates?

    Google Pixel Update Schedule: How Long Will My Phone Get Updates?

    One of the reasons anyone owns a Google Pixel phone is because it receives what is arguably the best level of software support in Android. Samsung has certainly made its case as being the king of updates, but Google is still the quickest most months when it comes to new Android security patches and big Android version updates. If you own a Pixel phone, you tend to be first in line to test out whatever is new in Android.

    Unpacking everything I just said there, owning a Pixel phone straight-up means you get updates quickly and the new version of Android first. There can be a touch of variation to the timing each month, but for the most part you are first. On top of that, you also get Pixel Feature Drop updates that often include new features that are exclusive to Pixel phones before eventually rolling out to other devices.

    There is a certain cadence to all of this, so let’s break it down further.

    How long will my Google Pixel get updates?

    Alright, since updates are a big part of Google Pixel phone ownership, how long will you get them? That depends on the phone, but as of the launch of the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold in 2024, things have changed some. Depending on your device, you could see up to 7 years of Android OS and security patches.

    For devices as old as the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro – and anything newer – Google has committed to a full 7 years of updates. Those updates include Android OS upgrades, security patches, and Pixel Feature Drops. Obviously, the entire Pixel 9 series and Pixel 10 series will match the Pixel 8 level of support.

    For the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro up through the Pixel Fold, Google changed its level of support by offering 3 years of Android version updates along with 5 years of security updates. Before that, from the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL up through the Pixel 5a (5G), Google was offering 3 years of Android version updates as well as 3 years of security updates.

    The Pixel 4 line, Pixel 4a, Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a are actually done receiving updates, as are the Pixel 3a, Pixel 3, Pixel 2, and original Pixel lines. Google is still (at the moment) providing updates to the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet, Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, and the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a, Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL, Pixel 10 Pro Fold, and Pixel 10a.

    Below, you’ll find the month and year that Google plans to stop providing updates to each Pixel phone, foldable, and tablet.

    [table id=225 /]

    When will my Pixel phone get its next update?

    Now that you know how long your Pixel phone will see updates, you might wonder when exactly those updates will show up each month. What I can tell you is that Google used to stick to a strict schedule on this, but has since given itself some wiggle room. However, for most months, we expect the following:

    • Monthly security updates: For years, Google released updates on the first Monday of the month for its Pixel devices, but that has since changed. As of late 2023, Google gave themselves more flexibility on release timing for monthly updates and is no longer committing to that first Monday. We often see updates within the first week still, although it isn’t surprising to see Google push updates later in a month too.
    • Quarterly updates – Pixel 6, Pixel 6a, and Pixel 7 devices: Over the past several months, we noticed a change in the cadence of updates for the Pixel 6, Pixel 7a, and Pixel 7 series of phones. Google has skipped several months of updates for these devices and has essentially switched them to a quarterly update schedule. While they haven’t confirmed publicly this to be the case, you can see all of the evidence right here.
    • Android version updates: For bigger Android version updates, Google used to release these once per year. However, starting with Android 16 in 2025, Google committed to releasing a new Android version earlier in the year (Q2), followed by another sizable release in Q4. For 2026 and Android 17, they are keeping that same schedule, so we’ll get stable Android 17 in Q2 along with another big Android 17 build before 2026 ends.

    When monthly or bigger version updates arrive, they’ll show up over-the-air as an update you can initiate yourself by heading into Settings>System>System update. We’re pretty good about telling you once those updates are live and ready to be installed.

    When are Pixel Feature Drops released?

    Pixel Feature Drops are a combination of big quarterly updates from Google that are accompanied by new software features for Pixel phones to enjoy. The big Quarterly Platform Release (QPR) update typically fixes dozens and dozens of bugs, while Google also introduces new features through apps like Google Messages, Photos, Maps, Search, and the camera that Pixel phones get before anyone else.

    The schedule for Pixel Feature Drops is quarterly and happens 3 times per year. We tend to get a stable version of Android in August or September followed by the first QPR update in December, another in March of the next year, and then June. The cycle then starts over again with the next version of Android.

    There you have it – you should now know exactly when you’ll get updates on your Google Pixel phone.

    UPDATED FEBRUARY 18, 2026 – Google launched the Pixel 10a today and we’ve updated info to included update support years for it. We’ve also fully updated a good chunk of this post with updated info.

  • Google Home Gets New Premade Voice Assistant Actions

    Google Home Gets New Premade Voice Assistant Actions

    Google Home is getting a set of new premade voice assistant actions. Google calls them pre-defined actions, but the point is, you can skip a lot of the busywork that makes actions in automations a time consuming endeavor.

    For example, new “pre-defined voice assistant actions” include announcing the weather, playing music, playing a podcast, telling a joke, and announcing the current time. The full list of actions are listed below. Google states that these are only available in the Google Home app using the automation editor and are not yet supported by Ask Home or Help Me Create.

    Actions:

    • Pre-defined voice assistant actions:
      • Announce current time
      • Announce today’s weather
      • Ask what time to set an alarm
      • Play chime
      • Play music
      • Play news
      • Play podcast
      • Play radio
      • Play sleep sounds
      • Tell a joke

    Delete pre-made routines: Google Home is also getting the ability to delete premade routines, such as Good Morning or Bedtime routines. If you felt like they were getting in the way, you can now get rid of them.

    Go have some fun with it.

    Google Play Link

    // Google Support

  • Pixel 10a Official at $499 and the Upgrades are Tough to Find

    Pixel 10a Official at $499 and the Upgrades are Tough to Find

    Google fully unveiled the Pixel 10a today and there aren’t many surprises following weeks of information trickling into our news feeds. What we have is a successor to the Pixel 9a, although it could easily have been called the Pixel 9.5a. Let’s talk about what’s new in the Pixel 10a.

    To start, you have a new Pixel A-Series device from Google that starts at $499. This is still a very reasonably priced Pixel phone for those not needing “Pro” features, yet still want the Pixel software experience with 7 years of software support. Those things combined make for an appealing package for folks on a budget who are looking for tons of value.

    When it comes to what’s new, this is where the Pixel 10a could be a tough pitch, assuming Google keeps the Pixel 9a around or discounts it to clear out remaining stock. Google is indeed giving us a new phone, but it’s mostly a Pixel 9a that has expanded access to some software features. When it comes to hardware and specs, the devices are almost identical.

    Pixel 10a All Colors

    Pixel 10a specs: Below, you’ll find the full set of specs and you’ll see the Tensor G4, 8GB RAM, 128GB or 256GB storage options, 5100mAh battery, IP68 durability, 7 years of OS support, 6.3″ pOLED display at up to 120Hz, and the dual cameras. All of these items have been pulled from the Pixel 9a and slapped into this device. The differences are all very subtle.

    The list of changes includes an increase to 3,000 nits peak brightness (up from 2,700) in the display, Gorilla Glass 7i cover glass (was Gorilla Glass 3), 10W wireless charging (up from 7.5W), and Bluetooth v6 (up from v5.3). That’s it.

    • OS: Android 16; 7 years OS, security, Pixel Drop updates
    • Display: 6.3-inch Actua pOLED FHD+ Display, 2424×1080
      • 60-120Hz, 3,000 nits peak brightness, Gorilla Glass 7i
    • Processor: Tensor G4, Titan M2 security processor
    • Memory RAM: 8GB
    • Storage: 128GB / 256GB
    • Battery: 5100mAh
      • “Fast” Wired Charging, 10W Wireless Charging
    • Rear Cameras: 48MP Wide Quad Dual Pixel, f/1.7, 82° FOV; 13MP Ultra Wide, f/2.2, 120° FOV
    • Front Camera: 13MP Ultra Wide, f/2.2, 96.1° FOV
    • Connectivity: 5G (sub-6), WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 6, Dual SIM, NFC
    • Other: USB-C 3.2, In-display Fingerprint, stereo speakers, Satellite SOS
    • Durability: IP68
    • Size: 153.9 x 73.0 x 9.0mm, 183g
    • Colors: Obsidian, Lavender, Berry, Fog
    • Price: $499 / $599

    Pixel 10a Lavender in Hand

    What about software? If Google is going to sell people on the Pixel 10a, there must be software upgrades, right? Yeah, that will be the pitch. However, with identical specs to the Pixel 9a, we sure hope Google plans to bring all of this to that device too. Let’s not be gatekeeping!

    Google tells us the following is new for the A-Series, specifically on the Pixel 10a: Satellite SOS, Auto Best Take, and Camera Coach.

    You’ll also find Pixel features like Call Assist, Gemini Live and Circle to Search, Pixel Weather, Magic Eraser, Night Sight, and Family Link. However, for new stuff, it really is just those 3 items I mentioned above.

    To recap, the Pixel 10a is here at $499 and has specs that match the Pixel 9a with a couple of improvements and a handful of features the 9a doesn’t have (yet).

    You can pre-order the Pixel 10a today from the Google Store and various retailers and carriers. It ships by March 5.

    Pre-order Pixel 10a from Google

  • Google’s Best Pixel 10a Pre-Order Deal

    Google’s Best Pixel 10a Pre-Order Deal

    The Pixel 10a launch day is finally here and we now know (from Google) all of the official specs, features, and whether or not they actually upgraded anything over the Pixel 9a (they barely did). With this all official, we know about launch promos and pre-order deals that might get you a Pixel 10a for a discount.

    For most Google A-series launches, they don’t typically offer a discount on the device unless you have something to trade-in. Instead, Google and its retail partners almost always do a bonus credit or gift card with purchase rather than a price drop. However, for this launch, Google was sending out discount codes for those who signed-up to be notified of the launch.

    Best Pixel 10a pre-order deals

    For the Pixel 10a launch, which is happening on February 18, you’ll find it up for pre-order at the Google Store, Best Buy, and Amazon. As expected all of the retailers (and Google) are offering up to $100 credit if you pre-order. That means $100 in Google Store credit or $100 in Amazon or Best Buy gift cards.

    • Pre-order deal 1: The Pixel 10a carries the same price as the Pixel 9a, so that means $499 for a device with 128GB storage. For this first pre-order deal, you would pay $499 and then receive a $100 credit to the Google Store or a gift card to Amazon or Best Buy.
    • Pre-order deal 2: If for some reason you do not want $100 in credit, Google and Amazon will let you get a free pair of Pixel Buds 2a instead. You’ll see the options when you head to either retailer.
    • Pre-order deal 3: If you signed up for information on the Pixel 10a launch, Google sent coupon codes to select customers up to $150 off. The time has passed for you to have received those coupons, so be sure to check your inboxes and spam folders for those. We’ve seen anywhere from $50 to $100 and $150 off. Getting a Pixel 10a at $150 off would drop it to $349, which is a really great deal.

    When do Pixel 10a pre-orders launch?

    Google has already confirmed through the Google Store that Pixel 10a pre-orders will go live on February 18 and ship March 5. If you are reading this post, then you can pre-order a Pixel 10a in Obsidian, Lavender, Berry, and Fog. We’ll also have a review up in the near future, should you be looking for more info.

    Shop Google Store Pixel 10a deals | Amazon

    UPDATED FEBRUARY 18 – THE PHONE HAS NOW LAUNCHED, SO ALL PRE-ORDER INFO IS OFFICIAL.

  • Samsung Teases AI Capabilities on Next Galaxy Camera System

    Samsung Teases AI Capabilities on Next Galaxy Camera System

    We are coming up on Samsung’s next Unpacked event, which is where the company will unveil the Galaxy S26 series. Leading up to that, the company is now teasing the camera system buyers can look forward to.

    The updated system is designed to combine photo and video capture along with editing and sharing. Users should be able to snap their shots, edit them using powerful AI tools, and then ship them off to social media or to friends all within the same experience.

    AI Goodies: For AI tools, Samsung highlights the ability to turn daytime photos into nighttime photos in seconds, restoring missing parts of objects in images, shooting in very low light, merging multiple images into a single shot, and more. “Tasks that once required professional skills and hours of editing will now be completed in minutes directly from the latest Galaxy smartphone,” the company explained.

    Samsung is labeling this the “brightest Galaxy camera system to date,” for the Galaxy S26 series.

    Unpacked is scheduled for February 25. Looking for the best Galaxy S26 Ultra deal? Check here.

  • Google I/O 2026 Will Take Place May 19-20

    Google I/O 2026 Will Take Place May 19-20

    Google is shooting out a save the date for Google I/O 2026, scheduled for May 19 through May 20. Two epic days at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, CA.

    The image that Google posted hints at Gemini, Android, Chrome, and Search announcements, but none of that comes as a surprise.

    Naturally, there’s a puzzle to play with if you feel so inclined.

    // Google

  • Google Surprises With Day Early $100 Off Pixel 10a Codes

    Google Surprises With Day Early $100 Off Pixel 10a Codes

    The Pixel A-Series hasn’t typically found big discounts when it launches, mostly because Google prices it so reasonably out of the gate that they likely don’t want to shrink the already-small margins on it. If anything, we see Google and its retail partners sell the phone and then include something like a $100 gift card or store credit to enhance the purchase. For some Pixel fans, there may be a true deal in-store when the new Pixel 10a launches tomorrow.

    According to a number of reddit users, Google has begun sending launch day coupons or codes for the Pixel 10a that are anywhere from $50 to $100 off. With a rumored starting price of $499, a $100 off code could help you pay as little as $399.

    Several people have posted that they received $100 off codes with an included message saying something along the lines of, “Ready for tomorrow? Your Google Pixel 10a coupon is inside.” This could be from signing-up on the Google Store teaser for the 10a or because they own an older Pixel that Google thinks should be left behind.

    Remember, Google did open up a sign-up page for news about the Pixel 10a earlier in the month, telling us that February 18 was pre-order day.

    We’re keeping track of the best Pixel 10a pre-order deals. We’ll make sure we update it if there’s a chance you can score a discount tomorrow.

    You planning to pre-order tomorrow?