Launch date, leaked options, rumored value, and extra

Replace: October 30, 2024 (2:55 AM ET): We’ve got up to date our Google Pixel 9a hub to incorporate leaked info on the telephone’s dimensions, show, battery, and pricing.

The Google Pixel 8a has been a strong addition to the Pixel lineup. It’s a nice suggestion as a finances Android system, particularly if you need many of the perks of a Pixel with out spending an excessive amount of on a flagship. However the telephone has been round for just a few months, and with the Pixel 9 sequence now round and within the fingers of customers, we are able to sit up for what Google has been cooking for its upcoming A-series successor. Right here’s the whole lot we all know in regards to the Pixel 9a, in addition to options and modifications we want the system comes with.

The Pixel A-series has been fairly widespread with customers who see it as a sensible and reasonably priced technique to expertise Google’s imaginative and prescient of Android. Whereas Google hasn’t confirmed if and when it can launch a Pixel 9a, the corporate has launched the Pixel 9 sequence to nice reception from reviewers and customers alike. That makes the A-series overdue for a refresh to align it with the “9” technology branding, and it’s simple to imagine that Google needs to maintain choices open for a finances Pixel in 2025.

Our Pixel sequence roadmap leak from December 2022 prompt that Google is seeking to transfer away from annual launches of A-series smartphones. The leak initially prompt that the Pixel 8a is probably not launched, however as historical past bears witness, the Pixel 8a did get launched (though many query its presence within the lineup when the Pixel 8 exists).

Nonetheless, the Pixel 8a’s launch doesn’t imply that Google has deserted its ideas on a two-year launch schedule. Google may nonetheless launch Pixel A telephones biennially (each two years) going ahead, bringing them extra consistent with the iPhone SE sequence.

To conclude, there’s a superb probability that there might be a Pixel 9a, however we are able to’t say for positive till Google pronounces one thing formally or confirms or denies any associated info.

• Pixel 8a — Could 7, 2024
• Pixel 7a — Could 10, 2023
• Pixel 6a — Could 11, 2022

Google normally pronounces the Pixel A-series at its annual Google I/O keynote, which occurs within the first half of Could yearly. Nonetheless, for the Pixel 8a, Google had a break in custom the place the Pixel 8a was launched a full week forward of the I/O (held on Could 14, 2024). Google’s I/O keynote was filled with software program bulletins, so it considerably is sensible that the corporate didn’t wish to add the Pixel 8a {hardware}. One can even take into account the Pixel 8a as a consumer-ready product, whereas many of the bulletins at Google I/O are developer-centric, so giving the Pixel 8a its personal limelight feels warranted.

However as a substitute of sticking to the Could launch window, a brand new report from Android Headlines claims that Google is making ready to launch the Pixel 9a as early as mid-March 2025. In response to the report, pre-orders for the Pixel 9a may start in mid-March, with delivery and in-store availability beginning earlier than the tip of the identical month.

Google hasn’t introduced the launch date of the Pixel 9a (and even pointed in direction of its existence), so we should anticipate the corporate to formally affirm when it can announce the brand new telephone.

What rumored specs and options may the Pixel 9a have?

We’re nonetheless months away from the Pixel 9a’s launch, however leaks and rumors have begun to reach for the telephone. Let’s check out them to get an concept of what we are able to count on from Google’s upcoming finances flagship.

Design and colours: There’s a redesign on the playing cards

The Pixel 9a was largely anticipated to hold ahead Google’s design language from earlier technology Pixels, but it surely appears Google may shock us with a design change for the upcoming telephone.

Our first brush with the design change got here from a leaked picture of the Pixel 9a (which surprisingly got here earlier than any leaked renders) discovered on a now-deleted publish on Vietnamese tech discussion board Tinhte. The poster prompt that these footage confirmed a telephone that Google was launching on August 13, however Google launched the Pixel 9 sequence flagships that day quite than the Pixel 9a.

The leaked photos showcase an alleged “Pixel 9a” that could be very completely different from the Pixel 8a. The tweaked brand suggests it is a prototype system, with smartphone makers usually incorporating distinctive markers like this to fight leaks.

The redesign was purportedly corroborated by leaked renders from OnLeaks by way of Android Headlines. The leaked renders for the Pixel 9a prompt the telephone may skip the now-iconic digital camera bar and go for a extra flushed look on the again.

As you may see within the leaked render above, the digital camera bar is squished down and erased. What we get is a digital camera island that’s flush with the remainder of the telephone. There’s a tiny raised ring across the cameras, more likely to defend it from getting scratched when positioned down on a floor.

Past the drastically modified flush rear digital camera, the remainder of the system within the leaked renders resembles the Pixel 9 in a great way. The leaked renders showcase the Pixel 9a has flat sides and rounded corners. The bezels are additionally pretty thick, which is anticipated from a tool within the finances tier.

One other report from Android Headlines suggests the Pixel 9a might be accessible in 4 colours. The report states that we are going to get the traditional Porcelain and Obsidian colour choices alongside new colours, Peony and Iris. Peony might be much like the pink shade presently supplied on the Pixel 9, whereas Iris is anticipated to be a bluish-purple hue.

The report additionally sheds gentle on the scale of the system. The Pixel 9a is claimed to measure 154 x 73 x 8.5mm, making it simply so barely wider and taller, however thinner, than the Pixel 8a’s 152.1 x 72.9 x 8.9mm. Curiously, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Professional measure 152.8 x 72 x 8.5mm, so the Pixel 9a isn’t anticipated to be too far off.

Android Headlines posted one other report on October 29, claiming that the Pixel 9a may have a 6.3-inch Actua show with a 60-120Hz refresh price. This places it on par with the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Professional display screen, whereas additionally being just a little larger than the Pixel 8a’s 6.1-inch panel. The outlet additionally issued up to date dimensions of 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9mm, making it just a little thicker, wider, and taller than first thought. The telephone is claimed to weigh 186 grams, which might make it barely lighter than the Pixel 8a (188 grams).

In response to an unique Pixel 9a processor leak from us at Android Authority, the Pixel 9a with the codename “tegu” will possible include the Google Tensor G4. Nonetheless, very similar to the Pixel 8a, the Pixel 9a is anticipated to make use of a barely completely different model of the Tensor G4 than the remainder of the Pixel 9 sequence.

Whereas the silicon die contained in the chip is equivalent, the plastic bundle differs. Whereas the common G4 makes use of FOPLP (Fan-Out Panel Stage Packaging), the 9a’s G4 makes use of IPoP (Built-in Package deal on Package deal). In response to Samsung, IPoP is thicker and warmer than FOPLP, however it is usually cheaper, which explains the choice. In follow, the efficiency variations shouldn’t be big, and the chip ought to nonetheless be an affordable improve on final 12 months’s mannequin.

One of many highlights of the Pixel 9’s Tensor G4 was the brand new Exynos Modem 5400, which options assist for 5G 3GPP Rel. 17, Satellite tv for pc SOS, and extra importantly, ran extra effectively and cooler than its predecessor. Nonetheless, it’s possible that the Tensor G4 on the Pixel 9a skips the processor improve. As a substitute, it may stick to the older Exynos Modem 5300 from the Pixel 8 sequence. We’re hoping that Google modifications its thoughts, however we wouldn’t maintain our breath on it, so be ready for a middling modem expertise on the upcoming finances telephone in comparison with the Pixel 9’s good connectivity expertise.

The Android Headlines report from October 29 asserts that the telephone will certainly provide the Tensor G4 chip, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of 256GB of storage. The outlet additionally claimed in a separate article that the Pixel 9a would have a 5,000mAh battery. That’s a serious improve over the Pixel 8a’s 4,492mAh capability. Sadly, it’s believed that Google is sticking with glacial 18W wired and seven.5W wi-fi speeds.

Cameras

We all know that Google plans to ditch the digital camera bar, however what are the corporate’s plans for the precise cameras? There are nonetheless solely two shooters within the again and a selfie digital camera within the entrance. A leak from Android Headlines reveals that the system will proceed the development of getting no telephoto lens, leaving us with the principle sensor and ultrawide. Reportedly, there received’t be any modifications to the ultrawide or selfie shooter, which means we are able to count on a 13MP from the ultrawide and entrance digital camera.

There’s one change to sit up for, nonetheless, and that’s the improved important digital camera. The leak claims that the Pixel 9a may have a 48MP major lens — presumably the identical major digital camera within the Pixel 9 Professional Fold — as a substitute of the 64MP digital camera discovered within the Pixel 8a. Though the first digital camera could have fewer megapixels than earlier than, pictures ought to nonetheless look higher because of the bigger measurement of the pixels.

This shouldn’t come as a shock, however Android Headlines stories that the Pixel 9a will include Android 15 out-of-the-box. All latest A-series Pixels have include the presently steady Android model, so we weren’t anticipating something apart from steady Android 15 on the Pixel 9a. Google may launch Android 16 in Q2 2025, and that would change what comes on the Pixel 9a, however we don’t have any direct or focused leaks suggesting an Android 16 steady launch out-of-the-box on the Pixel 9a.

We’re additionally anticipating the Pixel 9a to supply loads of AI options. Nonetheless, leaks level to the telephone having 8GB of RAM. If you happen to solid your thoughts again to the Pixel 8, it had 8GB of RAM, too, and initially lacked some AI options. The Pixel 9 sequence additionally provides 12GB of RAM on the naked minimal, with a portion of reminiscence completely reserved for AI duties. We’re subsequently guessing that the Pixel 9a received’t have as many AI options because the Pixel 9.

What may the Pixel 9a value be?

• Pixel 8a — $499 for 8GB/128GB
• Pixel 7a — $499 for 8GB/128GB
• Pixel 6a — $449 for 6GB/128GB

Google has tried to take care of an reasonably priced price ticket for its A-series, as that’s its important USP. The worth did rise with the Pixel 7a by $50, however Google appears to have settled at $499 for now with the Pixel 8a.

Android Headlines stories that the Pixel 9a will certainly preserve a $499 price ticket when it’s ultimately launched. That’s encouraging information, as it might imply the telephone is a full $300 cheaper than the Pixel 9. However, we’ll have to attend for extra leaks to corroborate this rumored value.

Whereas the Pixel 9a’s purported redesign is thrilling, we really feel fairly relaxed recommending the present crop of smartphones that you would be able to buy instantly. Even with its presently rumored earlier-than-expected launch date, the telephone remains to be many months away, and there’s no motive so that you can wait that lengthy if you need a value-for-money telephone proper now.

As a substitute of the Pixel 9a, you need to take into account smartphones from Google’s present lineup. The Pixel 8a ($499 at Amazon) and even the often-on-sale Pixel 8 ($699 at Amazon) are strong decisions that received’t burn a gap in your pocket (although attempt to search for a sale as they regularly see huge reductions). If you happen to can, you need to take into account leaping as much as the Pixel 9, too ($799 at Amazon).

In case you are open to units from different producers, then your choices improve. Relying on what your finances and necessities are, the OnePlus 12R ($599.99 at Amazon),  Samsung Galaxy A35 5G ($359.99 at Amazon), the older Galaxy S23 FE ($599.99 at Amazon) and the Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) ($399.99 at Motorola) are additionally good smartphones in related value brackets.

Google Pixel 9a: What we wish to see

The Pixel 8a is a good telephone, however there’s all the time some room for enchancment. Whereas Google already possible has its imaginative and prescient set on what the Pixel 9a needs to be, these are the upgrades we wish to see from the upcoming finances flagship!

Google embraced measurement variety in its Pixel lineup with the Pixel 9 sequence, following within the traditions of some older Pixels. The Pixel 9 Professional and the Pixel 9 Professional XL are largely equivalent in specs, giving customers two actual choices throughout sizes with out unnecessarily gimping them with the smaller telephone. Sure, there are apparent variations within the show measurement, battery measurement, and total dimensions. However different specs, together with the show tech, processor and cameras, are equivalent.

We’re hoping a few of this strategy spills over onto the Pixel 9a too. A break up for Pixel 9a and Pixel 9a XL would permit finances telephone customers the choice to get a bodily bigger telephone with out spending an excessive amount of money on specs that won’t matter to them.

Whereas its predecessor was an absolute mess relating to battery life, the Google Pixel 8a supplied an enchancment thanks to raised energy effectivity with the Tensor G3 SoC and a small 100mAh improve, bumping the battery as much as 4,492mAh. Whereas this was a welcome change, the Pixel 8a nonetheless simply barely manages a full day with fundamental use.

Funds telephones and massive batteries usually go hand in hand, so we’d like to see Google improve the Pixel 9a to a 5,000mAh battery or one thing related. The excellent news is that Android Headlines reported in October that the telephone would have a 5,000mAh battery.

Sooner charging speeds could be nice too

The Pixel lineup is lengthy overdue for some critical charging velocity upgrades, and the Pixel A-series is the worst of the lot. Caught at 18W for wired charging and an much more sluggish 7.5W for wi-fi charging, the Pixel 8a takes a full 100 minutes to cost from zero to full when plugged in immediately. Wi-fi charging efficiency is even worse.

You may excuse the Pixel 8a on account of its finances pricing, at the very least till you discover equally priced units just like the OnePlus 12R have managed to do manner higher. The latter is able to charging from empty to full in simply 25 minutes.

Sadly, latest leaks recommend that Google will stick to 18W wired and seven.5W wi-fi charging. That’s an actual disgrace, as even the Galaxy A35 5G provides 25W speeds.

The Pixel 8a makes use of the identical digital camera launched with the Pixel 7a, which isn’t a nasty shooter by any means. It additionally acquired even higher with the Pixel 8a, due to software program and SoC optimizations, together with Audio Magic Eraser, Finest Take, and extra. The principle digital camera nonetheless takes pretty first rate photographs, even in less-than-perfect lighting, however after a number of years of innovation, higher sensors can be found that might provide a fair higher expertise.

We hope Google doesn’t recycle its digital camera know-how for a 3rd 12 months, at the very least not except the Pixel 9a debuts for lower than the present Pixel A. We’d additionally like to see Google introduce some form of telephoto possibility for zooming, particularly if it does (miraculously) introduce a Pixel 9a XL to the combination. That is actually one of many solely sore spots relating to utilizing a Pixel 8a as your important digital camera, in spite of everything.

Luckily, earlier leaks from Android Headlines recommend that the telephone will provide a 48MP important digital camera that may very well be equivalent to the Pixel 9 Professional Fold shooter.