Google Pixel 11a leak: Tensor G6 chip, 120Hz display, 8GB RAM

Key Takeaways

• Pixel 11a will run on Tensor G6 chip (codenamed Malibu) with Titan M3 security
• Display specs include 120Hz refresh rate and 3,350 nits peak brightness
• Four colors confirmed: Obsidian, Olive, Frost, and Fog

The Google Pixel 11a has surfaced in leaks months before its expected 2026 launch. Tipster Mystic Leaks claims the phone, codenamed "Formosan," will ship with Google's Tensor G6 processor, a 120Hz display, and 8GB of RAM. The leak comes just weeks before Google's Made by Google event, where the Pixel 11 flagship series is set to debut.

What specs does the Pixel 11a leak reveal?

The leaked specifications paint a picture of a capable mid-range phone. At its core sits the Tensor G6 chip, internally called "Malibu," paired with the Titan M3 security chip that handles sensitive operations like biometric data and payment encryption. The processor reportedly uses a PowerVR C-Series GPU and MediaTek M90 modem for connectivity.

The display measures 6.3 inches with a 1080 x 2424 pixel resolution. Adaptive refresh rates between 60Hz and 120Hz should help balance smoothness with battery life. Brightness peaks at 3,350 nits, with HDR content hitting 2,250 nits. These numbers would put the Pixel 11a's display on par with many flagship phones.

Battery capacity sits at a minimum rated 4,870mAh. Google's "minimum rated" figures typically mean real-world capacity lands slightly higher. The phone will ship in four colors: Obsidian (black), Olive (green), Frost (purple), and Fog (silver).

Regional variants and new camera features

Google plans three regional SKUs: GQ05X for global markets, GP1BL for Japan, and G4XQ2 for North America. This matches Google's typical distribution strategy for the A-series.

The rear camera setup remains undisclosed, but the front camera has its own codename: "Dokkaebi." That internal designation suggests Google considers the selfie camera significant enough to warrant dedicated development attention. The leak also claims Face Unlock across the Pixel 11 series will be faster, more secure, and more reliable in low light than previous generations.

When will the Pixel 11a launch?

Google's A-series phones historically launch six to eight months after their flagship siblings. The Pixel 11 lineup is expected at the Made by Google event next month, which places the Pixel 11a somewhere in early-to-mid 2026.

The leak also drops an interesting detail: the Pixel 12a already has an internal codename, "Marmoset." That phone is more than a year from launch, but the existence of a codename suggests Google's A-series roadmap extends well into 2027.

How does the Pixel 11a fit Google's strategy?

Google's A-series serves a specific purpose: bring flagship AI features to a lower price point. The Tensor chips are designed around machine learning workloads, not raw benchmark performance. This approach lets Google offer features like real-time translation, Magic Eraser, and on-device AI processing at roughly half the flagship price.

The 8GB RAM figure is notable. It matches the Pixel 10a rather than increasing, which suggests Google believes its software optimization can deliver AI performance without additional memory. Whether that holds true for the increasingly demanding AI features Google keeps adding remains to be seen.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Google Pixel 11a be released?

Based on Google's typical release schedule, the Pixel 11a should launch in early-to-mid 2026, about six to eight months after the Pixel 11 flagship debuts.

What processor will the Pixel 11a use?

The leak indicates the Pixel 11a will use Google's Tensor G6 chip, codenamed Malibu, paired with the Titan M3 security chip.

How much RAM will the Pixel 11a have?

The Pixel 11a is tipped to include 8GB of RAM, the same as its predecessor the Pixel 10a.

What colors will the Pixel 11a come in?

Four colors are expected: Obsidian (black), Olive (green), Frost (purple), and Fog (silver).

What display does the Pixel 11a have?

The leak points to a 6.3-inch display with 1080 x 2424 resolution, 60-120Hz adaptive refresh rate, and 3,350 nits peak brightness.

Source: mint / Aman Gupta