Right on cue, Google's entry-level Pixel 10a has arrived.

The reasonably priced smartphone is very similar to the Pixel 9a in several respects, including its colorful, understated design, and, notably, it features Google's Tensor G4 chip, just like last year's device. It's always seemed a bit odd that the Pixel a-series featured the same chip as its high-end counterparts, and it looks like Google felt the same way. The Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL all include Google's Tensor G5 chip.

In addition, Google says the Pixel 10a's rear-facing camera bump is flush with the smartphone, allowing it to sit flat when placed on its back. The smartphone supports Bluetooth 6, satellite connectivity, and 45W wired charging, which oddly is faster than the Pixel 10's 30W charging.

The Pixel 10a gets a few new AI tricks

The camera array is identical to the Pixel 9a's

There are also a few new AI features borrowed from the rest of the Pixel 10 series, including Camera Coach, which uses Gemini to analyze a scene and offer photography tips, and Auto Best Take, a feature that combines people's expressions with AI to ensure everyone looks good in the photo. Of course, Gemini is also back again in full force on the Pixel 10a, just like it is with the rest of the Pixel 10 series.

The back of the phone still features a textured matte-black finish, and the smooth satin-metal frame returns as well. On the camera side, the device features an f/1.7 48-megapixel main camera and an f/2.2 13-megapixel ultra-wide shooter, coupled with an f/2.2 13-megapixel selfie camera. Other notable specs include an IP68 water and dust-resistance rating, 8GB of RAM, 128GB/256GB storage options, Google's Titan M2 security coprocessor, and, like all Pixel devices, seven years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates. Finally, the Pixel 10's 120Hz OLED screen is 6.3-inches at a 1,080 x 2,424 pixel resolution, just like the Pixel 9a's.

It's worth noting that, unlike the rest of the Pixel 10 line, the Pixel 9a doesn't support Pixel Snap, so it won't work with Google's excellent Qi2-powered ecosystem of magnetic accessories.

While the Pixel 10a is a solid entry-level smartphone, especially given its price, it's difficult not to be disappointed that it's largely the same as last year's Pixel 9a, including even its processor. Though, to be fair, like the Tensor G5, the Tensor G4 is sufficiently powerful for almost anything you'd want to do with an Android device. Additionally, the lack of Pixel Snap support is a clear drawback, given that it's one of the Pixel 10 series' key standout features. Still, for $500, it's a pretty good smartphone deal, especially given that it's $300 cheaper than the $800 Pixel 10.

The Pixel 10a costs $500 and is available now in Lavender, Berry, Fog, and Obsidian.