Google Pixel 8a Rumors & Leaks
Google has unveiled the Google Pixel 8a, the latest addition to its midrange phone lineup, continuing the trend of offering high-end features at a more accessible price point. This new model retains many of the standout features from last year’s Pixel 8 series, including advanced AI functionalities powered by the Tensor G3 system-on-chip, while maintaining the same price as its predecessor in the U.S.
The Pixel 8a follows the typical pattern of the Pixel A series, being a more affordable variant of the flagship model that came before it. This affordability does mean some compromises in features, but the 8a should not be mistaken for a low-end device. Notably, Google has increased the refresh rate of the 8a’s 6.1-inch display and extended its software and security support to match that of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.
For a comprehensive look, you can read our first impressions in the Google Pixel 8a hands-on review or compare it with the previous model in our Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a comparison.
The Pixel 8a is priced at $499 in the U.S., identical to last year’s Pixel 7a, with a 256GB model available for $559. In the U.K., the price has increased to £499, a £50 hike from the Pixel 7a. Australian consumers will see the Pixel 8a starting at AU$849 for the 128GB version, which is AU$100 more than the previous model, with the 256GB variant priced at AU$949. Preorders begin today (May 7), with the phone going on sale on May 14 through the Google Store and various carriers and retailers. Verizon offers a deal where you can get a Pixel 8a for free with a new line on their myPlan accounts, and Google is offering a $100 credit on other Google Store purchases for Pixel 8a preorders before May 19.
The Pixel 8a closely resembles the Pixel 8 in design, featuring a camera bar across the back, but with more rounded corners, a matte back, and an aluminum frame. It also has a slightly wider bottom bezel compared to the flagship models. The phone is IP67 water-resistant, meaning it can be submerged in up to 3 feet of water without damage. Google has increased the use of recycled materials in the phone’s construction, including aluminum, glass, and plastic.
Color options for the Pixel 8a include obsidian (black), porcelain (white), bay (blue), and aloe (green), mirroring the colors offered for the Pixel 8 Pro.
The 6.1-inch OLED display on the Pixel 8a features a resolution of 2400 x 1080 with a pixel density of 430ppi. Although similar in size to the Pixel 7a’s screen, the Pixel 8a now includes the Actua display technology found in Google’s flagship models, allowing for a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits, a significant improvement over the 1,000-nit maximum of the Pixel 7a. The refresh rate has also been upgraded to 120Hz, matching the capabilities of the flagship models and providing a smoother visual experience than the 90Hz refresh rate of the Pixel 7a.
Google’s Pixel phones are renowned for their camera quality, and the Pixel 8a continues this tradition. It features a 64MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide camera, similar to the Pixel 7a. The front camera is also 13MP but with a slightly wider field of view compared to its predecessor. Thanks to the Tensor G3 chipset, the Pixel 8a inherits advanced photo-editing features from the Pixel 8, such as Best Take, Magic Editor, and Audio Magic Eraser.
The Pixel 8a is powered by the Tensor G3 system-on-chip, offering a performance boost over the Tensor G2 found in the Pixel 7 series. While it may not compete with the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it is expected to outperform other midrange competitors like the Samsung Galaxy A35.
The Tensor G3 also enhances the AI capabilities of the Pixel 8a, supporting features such as live translation, improved Call Assist, and Circle to Search, which allows for quick lookups without leaving the current app. These AI features are particularly appealing given the competitive pricing of the Pixel 8a compared to high-end Samsung models.
The Pixel 8a comes with a slightly larger battery than the Pixel 7a, with a 4,404 mAh cell. This increase, coupled with the more efficient Tensor G3, is expected to improve battery life, an area where recent Pixel phones have not excelled. The phone supports 18W wired charging and wireless charging.
One of the most significant upgrades for the Pixel 8a is the extended support period. Google promises seven years of software and security updates, aligning with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. This long-term support could make the Pixel 8a a durable and cost-effective choice for many users.
The Pixel 8a offers a compelling mix of high-end features and midrange pricing. With its enhanced display, AI capabilities, robust camera system, and long-term software support, the Pixel 8a stands out as a strong contender in the midrange smartphone market.
Disclaimer:Â We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct.
