×
Google’s Pixel 10a Looks Pretty Familiar

Google’s Pixel 10a Looks Pretty Familiar

Tech-news , , , , ,

Those are the kinds of refinements Google has made on the Pixel 10a. The pOLED display is nearly identical, except it can now reach 3,000 nits of peak brightness versus 2,700 nits on the 9a. The glass covering the display uses Corning’s Gorilla Glass 7i instead of the aging Gorilla Glass 3, for better scratch resistance.

The battery capacity remains 5,100 mAh, but Google has upped charging speeds to 30 watts when plugging in, and 10 watts for wireless charging. Google skipped the Pixelsnap magnetic Qi2 charging here, a feature the company debuted on its flagship Pixel 10 series. Apple is expected to launch its midrange handset in a few weeks—the iPhone 17e—and rumors suggest it will support MagSafe/Qi2, unlike the iPhone 16e, giving it a leg up over Google’s phone, even if it is pricier.

Speaking of the battery, Google says it uses the newer “pull jacket” mechanism to more easily remove the adhesive on the battery, a system it introduced on the Pixel 10 series. Like the Pixel 9a, this phone also has a mandatory Battery Health Assistance tool that lowers the max voltage the battery can reach after a certain number of charge cycles to increase the battery’s lifespan. Google developed this system after it found overheating issues in earlier Pixel A-series models.

While the Pixel 10a still only supports Wi-Fi 6E like its predecessor, instead of the newer Wi-Fi 7 standard, Google did add a new modem to support Satellite SOS, allowing the phone to connect with emergency services when there’s no Wi-Fi or cell signal.

Google says the Pixel 10a is made with “the most recycled material of any A-series Pixel yet,” including using recycled cobalt, copper, gold, and tungsten for the first time. (Apple has been using these recycled materials for several years already.) The aluminum frame is 100 percent recycled, and the back is 81 percent recycled plastic.

That’s about it for hardware changes. The phone comes in fresh colors—Obsidian, Fog, Lavender, and Berry—the latter of which is a nod to the Berry color in new Nest products Google introduced late in 2025.

Software Upgrade

Camera Coach in action.

Photograph: Julian Chokkattu

Google knows the Pixel 10a upgrades are thin, which is why it’s bringing over a few Pixel 10 software features like Camera Coach and Auto Best Take. The company isn’t porting these capabilities to the Pixel 9a despite the two smartphones sharing the same Tensor G4 chip and 8 GB of RAM—at least not yet. Google often gatekeeps a few software features for a few months on its new devices, then ports them back to older Pixels via Pixel Drop software updates. However, Google did not confirm if this will indeed be the case.

Source link
#Googles #Pixel #10a #Pretty #Familiar

Tag

Related Posts


There’s many uncertainties in this world, but apparently the future of Prime Video’s Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power may not be one of them.

According to a source speaking to The Ankler’s Lesley Goldberg, the show’s considered a “magical halo” by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. As such, it’s “proteced for its run” and likely to finish out the five-season arc Amazon pitched back when it first secured the rights. Getting those rights and making the show has been pretty pricey for the company, and the first two seasons had a two-year release gap. At time of writing, the show’s third season doesn’t have a firm date beyond “sometime in 2026,” and some have generally wondered how much more life Rings of Power had left in it.

Goldberg’s report also mentions a tradeoff to this five-season plan: for Rings of Power to live on, a spinoff that’d been planned for it has gotten axed. Major Prime Video shows like The Boys and Invincible have become small franchises unto themselves, and it makes sense the streamer would want to repeat that for its remaining big fantasy series. While Amazon may not get to build on Middle-earth after the show ends, Warner Bros. is determined to keep the Lord of the Rings train going with two new films: a Gollum prequel, and an interquel that also reunites the Hobbits after the events of Return of the King.

[via IGN]

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

#Amazon #Sticking #Rings #PowerJ.R.R. Tolkien,Lord of the Rings,Rings of Power">Amazon Is Sticking With ‘Rings of Power’ to the End There’s many uncertainties in this world, but apparently the future of Prime Video’s Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power may not be one of them. According to a source speaking to The Ankler’s Lesley Goldberg, the show’s considered a “magical halo” by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. As such, it’s “proteced for its run” and likely to finish out the five-season arc Amazon pitched back when it first secured the rights. Getting those rights and making the show has been pretty pricey for the company, and the first two seasons had a two-year release gap. At time of writing, the show’s third season doesn’t have a firm date beyond “sometime in 2026,” and some have generally wondered how much more life Rings of Power had left in it. Goldberg’s report also mentions a tradeoff to this five-season plan: for Rings of Power to live on, a spinoff that’d been planned for it has gotten axed. Major Prime Video shows like The Boys and Invincible have become small franchises unto themselves, and it makes sense the streamer would want to repeat that for its remaining big fantasy series. While Amazon may not get to build on Middle-earth after the show ends, Warner Bros. is determined to keep the Lord of the Rings train going with two new films: a Gollum prequel, and an interquel that also reunites the Hobbits after the events of Return of the King. [via IGN] Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who. #Amazon #Sticking #Rings #PowerJ.R.R. Tolkien,Lord of the Rings,Rings of Power

Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power may not be one of them.

According to a source speaking to The Ankler’s Lesley Goldberg, the show’s considered a “magical halo” by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. As such, it’s “proteced for its run” and likely to finish out the five-season arc Amazon pitched back when it first secured the rights. Getting those rights and making the show has been pretty pricey for the company, and the first two seasons had a two-year release gap. At time of writing, the show’s third season doesn’t have a firm date beyond “sometime in 2026,” and some have generally wondered how much more life Rings of Power had left in it.

Goldberg’s report also mentions a tradeoff to this five-season plan: for Rings of Power to live on, a spinoff that’d been planned for it has gotten axed. Major Prime Video shows like The Boys and Invincible have become small franchises unto themselves, and it makes sense the streamer would want to repeat that for its remaining big fantasy series. While Amazon may not get to build on Middle-earth after the show ends, Warner Bros. is determined to keep the Lord of the Rings train going with two new films: a Gollum prequel, and an interquel that also reunites the Hobbits after the events of Return of the King.

[via IGN]

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

#Amazon #Sticking #Rings #PowerJ.R.R. Tolkien,Lord of the Rings,Rings of Power">Amazon Is Sticking With ‘Rings of Power’ to the EndAmazon Is Sticking With ‘Rings of Power’ to the End There’s many uncertainties in this world, but apparently the future of Prime Video’s Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power may not be one of them. According to a source speaking to The Ankler’s Lesley Goldberg, the show’s considered a “magical halo” by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. As such, it’s “proteced for its run” and likely to finish out the five-season arc Amazon pitched back when it first secured the rights. Getting those rights and making the show has been pretty pricey for the company, and the first two seasons had a two-year release gap. At time of writing, the show’s third season doesn’t have a firm date beyond “sometime in 2026,” and some have generally wondered how much more life Rings of Power had left in it. Goldberg’s report also mentions a tradeoff to this five-season plan: for Rings of Power to live on, a spinoff that’d been planned for it has gotten axed. Major Prime Video shows like The Boys and Invincible have become small franchises unto themselves, and it makes sense the streamer would want to repeat that for its remaining big fantasy series. While Amazon may not get to build on Middle-earth after the show ends, Warner Bros. is determined to keep the Lord of the Rings train going with two new films: a Gollum prequel, and an interquel that also reunites the Hobbits after the events of Return of the King. [via IGN] Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who. #Amazon #Sticking #Rings #PowerJ.R.R. Tolkien,Lord of the Rings,Rings of Power

There’s many uncertainties in this world, but apparently the future of Prime Video’s Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power may not be one of them.

According to a source speaking to The Ankler’s Lesley Goldberg, the show’s considered a “magical halo” by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. As such, it’s “proteced for its run” and likely to finish out the five-season arc Amazon pitched back when it first secured the rights. Getting those rights and making the show has been pretty pricey for the company, and the first two seasons had a two-year release gap. At time of writing, the show’s third season doesn’t have a firm date beyond “sometime in 2026,” and some have generally wondered how much more life Rings of Power had left in it.

Goldberg’s report also mentions a tradeoff to this five-season plan: for Rings of Power to live on, a spinoff that’d been planned for it has gotten axed. Major Prime Video shows like The Boys and Invincible have become small franchises unto themselves, and it makes sense the streamer would want to repeat that for its remaining big fantasy series. While Amazon may not get to build on Middle-earth after the show ends, Warner Bros. is determined to keep the Lord of the Rings train going with two new films: a Gollum prequel, and an interquel that also reunites the Hobbits after the events of Return of the King.

[via IGN]

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

#Amazon #Sticking #Rings #PowerJ.R.R. Tolkien,Lord of the Rings,Rings of Power

Apple Watches are smart little gadgets, but they don’t always fit the vibe. There were plenty of nights and dressier events when I left mine at home because—as much as I wanted to check my notifications discreetly—it didn’t match my outfit. I’ve also had my fair share of faux pas and just let the neon orange sport band clash with my neutral ensemble.

Fortunately, Apple Watch bands are a simple and relatively affordable way to zhuzh up the look of your wearable. Beyond aesthetics, different styles also impact performance and functionality. For example, I don’t want a heavy stainless steel or high-quality leather band weighing me down during a sweaty workout, just as I wouldn’t wear a flimsy silicone band to a dinner party.

At WIRED, we’ve been testing bands since the very first Apple Watch launched in 2015. After years of wearing and swapping, I’ve rounded up the best bands for every occasion. Be sure to check out our related product guides, including the Best Apple Watch Accessories, Best Apple Watch, and Best Smartwatches for more recommendations.

Jump to

Best Band for Everyday Wear

The Nike Sport Loop has been my everyday band since 2020. I bought another in 2023 because I wanted to swap colors, and I figured after three years, I should buy a brand-new one, but it has held up remarkably well. Made from a blend of recycled polyester, spandex, and nylon, it’s breathable and lightweight. The double-layered nylon weave is designed with dense loops that help prevent moisture from getting trapped against your skin. As long as you regularly hand-wash it to rid it of sweat buildup and dirt, it stays odor-free.

The hook-and-loop fastener and pull tab make it easy to adjust with one hand. It is Velcro, so beware, it can snag on softer fabrics. Still, for a band designed with sports in mind, it’s understated enough to wear almost anywhere. I wouldn’t wear it to a formal event, but for the office or casual social events, it’s perfect.

Best Titanium Apple Watch Band

  • Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

  • Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

  • Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

Nomad originally designed the Stratos Band for the Apple Watch Ultra, but it fits just as well with the SE and Series 1 through 11. It’s easy to adjust, refined enough for the office, and backed by Grade 4 titanium hardware with a scratch-resistant DLC coating. FKM rubber links (PFA-free and antimicrobial, according to Nomad) add flexibility, durability, and water-resistance. The clasp is made with corrosion-resistant N52 magnets, which make it effortless to snap on, and it’s designed with a manual release button, so you don’t have to worry about it accidentally falling off. It’s technically suited for workouts and outdoor use, but it is a hefty band that I personally prefer for casual everyday wear.

#Favorite #Apple #Watch #Bands #Avoidwearables,apple,health,fitness,gear,buying guides,shopping,accessories">My Favorite Apple Watch Bands (and the Ones to Avoid)Apple Watches are smart little gadgets, but they don’t always fit the vibe. There were plenty of nights and dressier events when I left mine at home because—as much as I wanted to check my notifications discreetly—it didn’t match my outfit. I’ve also had my fair share of faux pas and just let the neon orange sport band clash with my neutral ensemble.Fortunately, Apple Watch bands are a simple and relatively affordable way to zhuzh up the look of your wearable. Beyond aesthetics, different styles also impact performance and functionality. For example, I don’t want a heavy stainless steel or high-quality leather band weighing me down during a sweaty workout, just as I wouldn’t wear a flimsy silicone band to a dinner party.At WIRED, we’ve been testing bands since the very first Apple Watch launched in 2015. After years of wearing and swapping, I’ve rounded up the best bands for every occasion. Be sure to check out our related product guides, including the Best Apple Watch Accessories, Best Apple Watch, and Best Smartwatches for more recommendations.Jump toAccordionItemContainerButtonBest Band for Everyday WearThe Nike Sport Loop has been my everyday band since 2020. I bought another in 2023 because I wanted to swap colors, and I figured after three years, I should buy a brand-new one, but it has held up remarkably well. Made from a blend of recycled polyester, spandex, and nylon, it’s breathable and lightweight. The double-layered nylon weave is designed with dense loops that help prevent moisture from getting trapped against your skin. As long as you regularly hand-wash it to rid it of sweat buildup and dirt, it stays odor-free.The hook-and-loop fastener and pull tab make it easy to adjust with one hand. It is Velcro, so beware, it can snag on softer fabrics. Still, for a band designed with sports in mind, it’s understated enough to wear almost anywhere. I wouldn’t wear it to a formal event, but for the office or casual social events, it’s perfect.Best Titanium Apple Watch BandPhotograph: Boutayna ChokranePhotograph: Boutayna ChokranePhotograph: Boutayna ChokraneNomad originally designed the Stratos Band for the Apple Watch Ultra, but it fits just as well with the SE and Series 1 through 11. It’s easy to adjust, refined enough for the office, and backed by Grade 4 titanium hardware with a scratch-resistant DLC coating. FKM rubber links (PFA-free and antimicrobial, according to Nomad) add flexibility, durability, and water-resistance. The clasp is made with corrosion-resistant N52 magnets, which make it effortless to snap on, and it’s designed with a manual release button, so you don’t have to worry about it accidentally falling off. It’s technically suited for workouts and outdoor use, but it is a hefty band that I personally prefer for casual everyday wear.#Favorite #Apple #Watch #Bands #Avoidwearables,apple,health,fitness,gear,buying guides,shopping,accessories

first Apple Watch launched in 2015. After years of wearing and swapping, I’ve rounded up the best bands for every occasion. Be sure to check out our related product guides, including the Best Apple Watch Accessories, Best Apple Watch, and Best Smartwatches for more recommendations.

Jump to

Best Band for Everyday Wear

The Nike Sport Loop has been my everyday band since 2020. I bought another in 2023 because I wanted to swap colors, and I figured after three years, I should buy a brand-new one, but it has held up remarkably well. Made from a blend of recycled polyester, spandex, and nylon, it’s breathable and lightweight. The double-layered nylon weave is designed with dense loops that help prevent moisture from getting trapped against your skin. As long as you regularly hand-wash it to rid it of sweat buildup and dirt, it stays odor-free.

The hook-and-loop fastener and pull tab make it easy to adjust with one hand. It is Velcro, so beware, it can snag on softer fabrics. Still, for a band designed with sports in mind, it’s understated enough to wear almost anywhere. I wouldn’t wear it to a formal event, but for the office or casual social events, it’s perfect.

Best Titanium Apple Watch Band

  • Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

  • Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

  • Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

Nomad originally designed the Stratos Band for the Apple Watch Ultra, but it fits just as well with the SE and Series 1 through 11. It’s easy to adjust, refined enough for the office, and backed by Grade 4 titanium hardware with a scratch-resistant DLC coating. FKM rubber links (PFA-free and antimicrobial, according to Nomad) add flexibility, durability, and water-resistance. The clasp is made with corrosion-resistant N52 magnets, which make it effortless to snap on, and it’s designed with a manual release button, so you don’t have to worry about it accidentally falling off. It’s technically suited for workouts and outdoor use, but it is a hefty band that I personally prefer for casual everyday wear.

#Favorite #Apple #Watch #Bands #Avoidwearables,apple,health,fitness,gear,buying guides,shopping,accessories">My Favorite Apple Watch Bands (and the Ones to Avoid)

Apple Watches are smart little gadgets, but they don’t always fit the vibe. There were plenty of nights and dressier events when I left mine at home because—as much as I wanted to check my notifications discreetly—it didn’t match my outfit. I’ve also had my fair share of faux pas and just let the neon orange sport band clash with my neutral ensemble.

Fortunately, Apple Watch bands are a simple and relatively affordable way to zhuzh up the look of your wearable. Beyond aesthetics, different styles also impact performance and functionality. For example, I don’t want a heavy stainless steel or high-quality leather band weighing me down during a sweaty workout, just as I wouldn’t wear a flimsy silicone band to a dinner party.

At WIRED, we’ve been testing bands since the very first Apple Watch launched in 2015. After years of wearing and swapping, I’ve rounded up the best bands for every occasion. Be sure to check out our related product guides, including the Best Apple Watch Accessories, Best Apple Watch, and Best Smartwatches for more recommendations.

Jump to

Best Band for Everyday Wear

The Nike Sport Loop has been my everyday band since 2020. I bought another in 2023 because I wanted to swap colors, and I figured after three years, I should buy a brand-new one, but it has held up remarkably well. Made from a blend of recycled polyester, spandex, and nylon, it’s breathable and lightweight. The double-layered nylon weave is designed with dense loops that help prevent moisture from getting trapped against your skin. As long as you regularly hand-wash it to rid it of sweat buildup and dirt, it stays odor-free.

The hook-and-loop fastener and pull tab make it easy to adjust with one hand. It is Velcro, so beware, it can snag on softer fabrics. Still, for a band designed with sports in mind, it’s understated enough to wear almost anywhere. I wouldn’t wear it to a formal event, but for the office or casual social events, it’s perfect.

Best Titanium Apple Watch Band

  • Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

  • Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

  • Photograph: Boutayna Chokrane

Nomad originally designed the Stratos Band for the Apple Watch Ultra, but it fits just as well with the SE and Series 1 through 11. It’s easy to adjust, refined enough for the office, and backed by Grade 4 titanium hardware with a scratch-resistant DLC coating. FKM rubber links (PFA-free and antimicrobial, according to Nomad) add flexibility, durability, and water-resistance. The clasp is made with corrosion-resistant N52 magnets, which make it effortless to snap on, and it’s designed with a manual release button, so you don’t have to worry about it accidentally falling off. It’s technically suited for workouts and outdoor use, but it is a hefty band that I personally prefer for casual everyday wear.

#Favorite #Apple #Watch #Bands #Avoidwearables,apple,health,fitness,gear,buying guides,shopping,accessories

The long-awaited sequel to the cult movie Spaceballs now has a release date: April 23, 2027.

Spaceballs was released on June 24, 1987, making the Spaceballs 2 premiere nearly 40 years later.

Original writer-director Mel Brooks officially announced Spaceballs 2 last year, with Bill Pullman, Rick Moranis, and Daphne Zuniga reprising their roles. Now, Amazon MGM Studios has announced the actual release date ahead of CinemaCon 2026, exclusively for Deadline.

From there, we really only know the details that were released last year, like that Josh Greenbaum (Will and Harper) is directing, and the script is written by Josh Gad, Benji Samit, and Dan Hernandez. Gad is also expected to star, along with Keke Palmer.

#Spaceballs #sequel #release #date">The ‘Spaceballs’ sequel has a release date The long-awaited sequel to the cult movie Spaceballs now has a release date: April 23, 2027.Spaceballs was released on June 24, 1987, making the Spaceballs 2 premiere nearly 40 years later. Mashable Top Stories Original writer-director Mel Brooks officially announced Spaceballs 2 last year, with Bill Pullman, Rick Moranis, and Daphne Zuniga reprising their roles. Now, Amazon MGM Studios has announced the actual release date ahead of CinemaCon 2026, exclusively for Deadline. From there, we really only know the details that were released last year, like that Josh Greenbaum (Will and Harper) is directing, and the script is written by Josh Gad, Benji Samit, and Dan Hernandez. Gad is also expected to star, along with Keke Palmer. #Spaceballs #sequel #release #date

sequel to the cult movie Spaceballs now has a release date: April 23, 2027.

Spaceballs was released on June 24, 1987, making the Spaceballs 2 premiere nearly 40 years later.

Original writer-director Mel Brooks officially announced Spaceballs 2 last year, with Bill Pullman, Rick Moranis, and Daphne Zuniga reprising their roles. Now, Amazon MGM Studios has announced the actual release date ahead of CinemaCon 2026, exclusively for Deadline.

From there, we really only know the details that were released last year, like that Josh Greenbaum (Will and Harper) is directing, and the script is written by Josh Gad, Benji Samit, and Dan Hernandez. Gad is also expected to star, along with Keke Palmer.

#Spaceballs #sequel #release #date">The ‘Spaceballs’ sequel has a release date

The long-awaited sequel to the cult movie Spaceballs now has a release date: April 23, 2027.

Spaceballs was released on June 24, 1987, making the Spaceballs 2 premiere nearly 40 years later.

Original writer-director Mel Brooks officially announced Spaceballs 2 last year, with Bill Pullman, Rick Moranis, and Daphne Zuniga reprising their roles. Now, Amazon MGM Studios has announced the actual release date ahead of CinemaCon 2026, exclusively for Deadline.

From there, we really only know the details that were released last year, like that Josh Greenbaum (Will and Harper) is directing, and the script is written by Josh Gad, Benji Samit, and Dan Hernandez. Gad is also expected to star, along with Keke Palmer.

#Spaceballs #sequel #release #date

Post Comment