The Pixel 9s are still hot that we already have to talk about their less expensive version. We are obviously talking about the Pixel 9a. Features, release date, price, we take stock.
The Pixel 9a will replace the Pixel 8a in Google’s lineup. A complicated task since you have to manage to stand out sufficiently from the basic model to find a place.
By this we mean that the Pixel 8a was too close to the Pixel 8, the price of which had fallen when it was launched. In fact, we were witnessing a kind of cannibalization when 8a was released.
Hopefully the Pixel 9a doesn’t take the same direction. We take stock of the information that we know or believe we know about this mid-range coming in 2025.
A design inspired by Pixel 9
Renders published by OnLeaks provide a first glimpse of the Pixel 9a’s physical appearance. And there will be change.
For the sake of harmonization, Google would propel its little “a” into the big leagues with a “brick” design. No more rounded edges, here we adopt flat contours, a flat screen and a flat back. An iPhone running Android, say the evil tongues.
Google brings differentiation to the rear with its atypical photo module. No more headband, but a flush dual photo sensor, unlike the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. If this is the case, this bodes well for a nice grip without relief on the back.
Note also that the Pixel 9a would be larger than the Pixel 8a.
- 154,7 x 73,3 x 8,9 mm contre 152,1 x 72,7 x 8,9 mm
The fault lies with a screen that is also larger since it would be 6.3 inches instead of 6.1 inches on the Pixel 8a. Less compact, but offering better visual comfort in use. The trend is anyway towards large slabs.
On the other hand, despite this change in size, Google would manage to reduce the weight of its smartphone. We would gain 2 grams for every 186 grams on the scale.
The Pixel 9 screen?
The Pixel 9a screen would therefore be larger. With a diagonal identical to that of the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro.
Logically, it could simply take the Pixel 9 panel. This has a variable refresh rate of 60 to 120 Hz, like the Pixel 8a.
Its resolution is, however, a bit less good (422 ppi compared to 430 ppi).
But what we expect most from this screen is that it is well calibrated. This has never really been a problem for Google which, on both the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 9, has fairly good color accuracy, a good white point and high brightness.
All it takes is for Google to reproduce the same thing.
A Tensor G4, but not the one you think
The Pixel 9a should be powered by a Tensor G4, but it would not be exactly the same SoC as on the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Xl and Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Indeed, in order to save money, Google would have developed another version of its chip, if we are to believe information from Android Authorities.
The difference would be in the packaging of the silicon chip with the use of another less expensive packaging. Direct impact on performance which should be a little worse, but still better than that of the Tensor G3 of the Pixel 8a.
Another modification, this Tensor G4 would not benefit from the brand new Exynos 5400 modem from Samsung and would be satisfied with its predecessor, the Exynos 5300 which equipped the Tensor G3.
This means that we will not be entitled to the SOS Satellite and support for 5G 3GPP Rel. 17, but also to the optimization of its heating which directly impacts autonomy.
This revamped Tensor G4 would be accompanied in the Pixel 9a by 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB or 256 GB of storage.
Android 15 to boot
Little information on the software part of this Pixel 9a. Presumably, it would launch under Android 15, recently rolled out to the Google Pixel.
But it is rumored that he might not stay there long. Indeed, Google would have revised its agenda and postponed the release of Android 16 which could arrive before the end of the first half of 2025.
Let us add that it will also benefit from 7 years of software and security updates from Google.
The AI will also be there with all the functions of the Pixel 8a, but undoubtedly also those of the Pixel 9, including the function Add me.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold sensor in the Pixel 9a
In photos, the Pixel 9a would continue the tradition with only two sensors:
- a 48 Mpx wide-angle,
- a 13 Mpx ultra wide-angle,
- a 13 Mpx selfie sensor.
The only new feature is the main sensor with reduced definition. From 64 Mpx on the Pixel 8a, it would therefore increase to 48 Mpx. At first glance, this is a step backwards.
However, Google would reuse the Pixel 9 Pro Fold sensor here and that would be good news. The latter is very well made and has the advantage of having a maximum focal aperture of f/1.7. That’s brighter than the Pixel 8a’s f/1.9, allowing for better low-light results.
If this is the case, it will however be more complicated to croper inside the photos. The Pixel “a” did not have a telephoto lens, so their large main sensor was an asset for digital zoom.
A really dope battery
Bigger screen, but not only that. With more space and flat edges, Google would increase its battery capacity. It would go from 4492 mAh to 5000 mAh, according to Android Headlines. After having absorbed the excess consumption of the additional 0.2 inches, we should be able to claim better autonomy.
However, on the load side, no improvement. We would still stay with wired charging of 18 Watts and wireless charging of 7.5 Watts.
An advanced release date
After bringing forward the release of the Pixel 9, Google would do the same for the Pixel 9a which should arrive in mid-March 2025 for pre-order. The first deliveries would begin at the end of March. Four colors would be on the program: Porcelain, Obsidian, Peony and Iris.
Let us add that this firing window would be frozen for future generations. The Pixel 10a would therefore arrive in March 2026, we can already predict.
A good point for the price
Again according to Android Headlines sources, Google would not increase the price of the Pixel 9a. It would align with that of the Pixel 8a, i.e. 549 euros, despite a larger screen and extended battery (but a restricted SoC).
Above it is the Pixel 9 currently at 899 euros. The Pixel 8a, for its part, can be found at 449 euros today, a drop of 100 euros in five months.
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