The rumored Google Pixel 11a may pair a 4,870 mAh battery with a new MediaTek M90 modem, a combination that could place power efficiency at the center of its upgrade. The device is said to move away from Samsung’s Exynos modem, which makes the connectivity change one of the most notable details in the leak.
Network performance figures have not been disclosed, so the impact of the switch cannot yet be measured. Still, the new modem is expected to improve connectivity and power efficiency for Google’s next Pixel generation.
A display aimed at smoother everyday use
The Pixel 11a is rumored to feature a 6.3-inch display with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,424 pixels. Its panel is said to support a variable refresh rate from 60Hz to 120Hz, allowing the screen to adjust its smoothness according to use.
Brightness figures in the leak are also high for an affordable phone. The display is reportedly capable of reaching 2,250 nits for HDR content and up to 3,350 nits at peak brightness.
| Feature | Rumored Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.3 inches | 1,080 x 2,424 pixels |
| Refresh rate | 60–120Hz | Variable |
| HDR brightness | 2,250 nits | For HDR content |
| Battery | 4,870 mAh | Leaked capacity |
According to Gizmochina, the handset carries the codename Formosan. It is expected to use the Tensor G6 chipset, internally known as Malibu, alongside 8GB of RAM.
Google is also said to retain a separate security approach through the Titan M3 chip. Storage configurations have not appeared in the available leak.
MediaTek M90 replaces the Exynos modem
The reported adoption of the MediaTek M90 stands out because Google previously used Samsung-made Exynos modems. Concerns about heat and connection quality have drawn attention around some earlier Pixel A-series devices, giving the alleged transition added relevance.
The M90 is reportedly not exclusive to the Pixel 11a. Google is said to be preparing the same modem change across the wider Pixel 11 lineup.
| Component | Rumored Detail | Primary Role |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Tensor G6 | Main device processing |
| Modem | MediaTek M90 | Connectivity and efficiency |
| Security chip | Titan M3 | Device security |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | System memory |
New front camera sensor and colour options
A new front-facing camera sensor is also expected, with the internal name dokkaebi. Its technical identity and camera capabilities have not been detailed.
The Pixel 11a is rumored in Obsidian, Olive, Frost, and Fog finishes, described respectively as black, green, purple, and silver. These details remain unconfirmed by Google and may change before release.
The Pixel 11 series is expected around August 2026. The Pixel 11a may also rely on long software support and a clean Android experience as key parts of its appeal.