Google's finally taken the wraps off the Pixel 9a, its next midrange smartphone. On paper, it looks like a hell of a bargain: for $500, you get a Tensor G4 chipset, a comparatively huge 5,100 mAh battery, and a quality plastic and aluminum build.

The Google Pixel 9a looks like a really solid budget Android phone. However, waiting for the Pixel 10a might be worth it. Here's why.

Google Pixel 9a phones come with a new Battery health assistance tool It will intentionally drop your phone’s maximum battery life every 200 charge cycles It turns off after 1,000 charges, and you can’t switch it off before then The Google Pixel 9a has a new feature that will intentionally reduce your phone’s battery life over time – and there’s nothing you can do about it.