Google has launched its latest budget smartphone, the Pixel 10a, aiming to compete with Apple's rumored upcoming iPhone 17e. The Pixel 10a, a lighter version of the Pixel 10, will retail for $499, according to Bloomberg.

The Pixel 10a is set to ship starting March 5, offering a range of new colors including light green, black, red, and lavender. This release coincides with Apple's preparations for a surprise conference on March 4, where they are expected to unveil their own budget-friendly iPhone 17e.

Alongside the new phone, Google also introduced an enhanced version of its Pixel Buds 2a in red and green, matching the new phone's color options.

According to The Verge, the Pixel 10a's specifications closely resemble those of its predecessor, with minimal discernible differences. Google has retained the Tensor G4 processor from last year, along with the same amount of RAM. This decision may limit the phone's ability to fully utilize all the AI features typically associated with Pixel devices.

Despite these similarities, the Pixel 10a does offer some new AI-driven capabilities, including a feature that captures multiple images and automatically selects the best one.

Google emphasizes that the Pixel 10a is its most durable phone to date, featuring a new protective layer and a brighter screen with slimmer bezels compared to the previous generation.

The company has chosen to maintain the same camera setup as the previous model, featuring a dual-sensor system with 13-megapixel and 48-megapixel lenses, housed in a camera design that differs from the standard Pixel 10.

While the Pixel 10a does not include the Pixel Snap feature, akin to MagSafe in iPhones, it does offer faster wired and wireless charging capabilities.

Ars Technica reports that Google believes the new phone offers good value for its price, providing a unique camera experience and smooth system performance.

However, the report suggests that Google deliberately limited improvements in the Pixel 10a to maintain the Pixel 10's position as a flagship device worthy of an upgrade. Additionally, a shortage of RAM chips has made it difficult to include more memory in the phone.

Bloomberg's report indicates that Google's pricing and launch timing are strategically aimed at directly competing with the iPhone 17e, which is expected to be released at a similar price point of around $600 with comparable specifications.