Google Pixel 8a
Google Pixel 8a Credit: Joseph Maldonado
Google's upcoming budget phone, the Pixel 9a, has been revealed in an unboxing video by tech reviewer Sahil Karoul before it launches or is even teased by Google. The video gives a detailed look at the device before its official unveiling, scheduled for March 19, 2025.
The Pixel 9a shows a big change in design compared with previous models. It has a flat back with an almost flush camera module, moving away from the chunky camera bump seen in recent Pixels.
The phone has a flat, boxy frame similar to the Pixel 9 series. It comes with a 6.3-inch OLED screen with full HD resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The screen can reach a brightness of 2,700 nits and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3.
According to the video, the Pixel 9a is powered by Google's Tensor G4 chipset and has 8GB of RAM. It will be available in two different storage options: 128GB and 256 GB. The device houses a 5,100mAh battery with support for 23W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging.
The camera setup includes a 48MP primary camera, a 13MP ultra-wide camera, and a 13MP front-facing camera. The video highlights the optical image stabilization (OIS) feature, which improves video stability, as reported by Android Central.
The Tensor G4 chip reportedly performed well in benchmarks and maintained good thermal management during stress tests.
I like the device. It has a nice feeling to it, at least visually. It's just that the bezels are just too thick for it to be liked completely.