Google Pixel 8a: Design to update policy, everything we know so far

Pixel 8a | Pixel 8a everything we know | Pixel 8a specs

The Pixel 8a is said to feature the Tensor G3 chipset, which also powers the Pixel 8 series. (Image Source: Smartprix)

Google phones are often known for leaking ahead of launch, and the Pixel 8a is no exception. The tech giant is all set to unveil the upcoming budget phone at the Google I/O 2024, which will start on May 14. From a curvier design to AI capabilities, here’s everything we know so far about the Google Pixel 8a.

Curvier design

Google’s Pixel A series devices often draw inspiration from the latest installment in the series, meaning that the Pixel 8a will have more noticeable curves compared to its predecessor. We already have seen several renders of the upcoming device suggesting the same which also hints that the Pixel 8a will sport a much curvier design compared to the rectangle-ish Pixel 7a. It is also expected to offer the same IP67 water and dust resistance just like the Pixel 8 series.

However, unlike the Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Pro, both of which have uniform bezels, leaked renders suggest that the Pixel 8a will get the short end of the stick with Google planning to distinguish its lineup by introducing a large bottom chin.

Also Read | Why does summer make your smartphone charge slowly?

Pixel 8a

The Pixel 8a will have the same camera island as the Pixel 8 series. (Image Source: Android Headlines)

Faster processor and better display

The Google Pixel 8a is said to pack a slightly underclocked version of the Tensor G3 chipset backed by the Mali-G715 GPU. While Google’s in-house developed chipset may not beat the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in terms of raw performance, we noted in our Pixel 8 review that it blazes through everyday tasks without lags or stutters.

While the Pixel 8a will sport the same 6.1-inch AMOLED screen as its predecessor, rumour has it that the tech giant will finally bump up the refresh rate from 90Hz to 120Hz, putting the upcoming phone on par with other devices in its price bracket.

Also Read | X may be working on a Google Meet like meetings feature

The device is also said to offer 8GB of RAM and 128GB storage, but some rumours hint that the Pixel 8a might be Google’s first budget phone to offer up to 256GB of storage.

Pixel 8a

Rumour has it that the Pixel 8a will offer the same AI features as the regular Pixel 8. (Image Source; Android Headlines)

AI features

According to a recent report by Android Headlines, the phone will offer the same AI features as the Pixel 8 series with a leaked ad hinting that features like Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser and Night Sight will be available on the Pixel 8a. And for those wondering, the ad also suggests that Circle to Search will be available on the upcoming device.

Dual camera setup

In the last few months, several leaked renders and speculations have suggested that the Pixel 8a will have the same camera setup as its predecessor. This means the upcoming device may pack a 64MP primary camera accompanied by a 13MP ultrawide shooter.

7 years of security updates

When Google unveiled the Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Pro last year, the tech giant promised that these devices will get 7 years of OS updates and security patches. However, it looks like the tech giant won’t be offering the same support for its upcoming budget device.

The leaked ad suggests that while the Pixel 8a will get seven years of security updates, there is no word about the OS updates. This might mean that similar to its predecessor, the tech giant might offer only 4 years of OS updates, but all of this is mere speculation at this point and things may change down the line when Google officially launches the phone.

Price and launch date

Since Google often launches its budget phones a day or two after its annual developer conference, we may see the Pixel 8a hitting the market somewhere around May 16, which corroborates with the recently leaked promotion material for the phone.

As for the price, a recent leak from a Canadian retailer hints that the Pixel 8a will cost more or less the same as the Pixel 7a, meaning the phone will likely be priced somewhere around Rs 50,000 at launch.

For the latest news from across India, Political updates, Explainers, Sports News, Opinion, Entertainment Updates and more Top News, visit Indian Express. Subscribe to our award-winning Newsletter Download our App here Android & iOS