Google may equip the Pixel 11a with a modern processor instead of an outdated one.

Mystic Leaks indicates that the Pixel 11a is set to feature a top-tier processor, the Tensor G6. Unlike the Tensor G5 found in the Pixel 10 and 10 Pro, the Pixel 10a was equipped with the older Tensor G4, which disappointed many fans since the Pixel a series usually retains the latest processor while making other compromises to keep prices down.

The Tensor G6 is expected to utilize the same PowerVR DXT-48-1536 GPU as the G5, but it should offer a noticeable upgrade over the Mali-G715 in the Tensor G4. A significant enhancement is the shift from Samsung’s Exynos modems to a MediaTek M90 modem, which aims to address two long-standing issues with Tensor chips: battery drain and signal drops.

While the Pixel 11a is anticipated to have a slightly smaller battery at 4,870mAh compared to the 5,000mAh of its predecessor, the efficiency gains from the new processor should help maintain or even slightly improve battery life. The display will continue to be a 6.3-inch 1080 x 2424 panel with a variable refresh rate ranging from 60 to 120Hz, but it will see an increase in peak brightness to 3,350 nits, up from 3,000 on the 10a.