Google Pixel 9a: Everything We Know So Far.
Despite Google launching the Pixel 9 just a few months ago, the arrival of the Pixel 9a is already anticipated. Here's what we know so far about this budget model in the Pixel lineup.
Despite the vast number of Android phones available on the market, Google stands out with its Pixel device line, offering high-quality products. This is because, similar to Apple, Google controls both the software and hardware of its devices. Recently, in August, the Google Pixel 9 series was launched, and in line with the company's tradition, it is anticipated that they will offer a more affordable option midway through the life cycle of their flagship, which will be the Google Pixel 9a in 2025. Below are the details currently known about the Pixel 9a, including its possible release date and specifications.
Rumors about the Google Pixel 9a have begun, although it is still early to have concrete details. Historically, the A series Pixel models tend to be released between late spring and summer. For example, the Google Pixel 6a was released in July 2022, while the Google Pixel 7a arrived in May 2023. The Pixel 8a is expected to follow this pattern, also launching in May, but a bit earlier and just before Google I/O. Recent reports suggest that the Google Pixel 9a could debut even earlier in 2025, with pre-orders starting in mid-March, according to various sources. This change in dates could also apply to the Pixel 10a, which would make sense given that Google unveiled the Pixel 9 family in August 2024, much earlier than the usual October timeframe. If Google continues to launch its main devices in August, then a March release for the A series would be logical.
Regarding the price, no concrete details about the cost of the Pixel 9a have been leaked, but estimates can be made based on previous models. The Pixel 9a is expected to maintain a similar price to the Pixel 8a, which was $499. Considering that the A series aims to be the more budget-friendly option, any price increase, such as what happened with the Pixel 9, would likely be around $50, bringing the price to $549. The intention of the A series is to offer accessible Pixel devices, so if there is a price increase, it should not be significant.
As the Pixel 9 had a notable redesign, the Pixel 9a is expected to present a refreshed look. Leaked images online show a design with flat edges, a metal frame, and rounded corners, similar to its Pixel 9 series siblings. However, the biggest change is the camera setup; instead of a protruding bar or island, the Pixel 9a appears to incorporate a pill-shaped design that houses the dual camera lenses, which is slightly raised but nearly flush with the device's body. The rumored color options include Porcelain, Obsidian, Peony, and Iris, with the last being a new purplish-blue shade. The Pixel 9a could feature a slightly larger screen, between 6.2 and 6.3 inches, with a refresh rate of 120Hz.
In terms of performance and software, the Pixel 9a is expected to come with the Google Tensor G4 chip, like the rest of the Pixel 9 series. No significant changes are expected in its processor until the release of the Tensor G5, which will debut with the Pixel 10 series. The Pixel 9a is expected to ship with Android 15 out of the box, at least 8GB of RAM, and the ability to leverage some of Google's artificial intelligence features. There should also be at least two storage options, 128GB and 256GB, and the device will adhere to Google's commitment of seven years of software and security updates.
Regarding the cameras, the Pixel 9a may return to a 48MP main camera, while the ultrawide camera would remain at 13MP. Although this may seem like a downgrade, it is speculated that the camera used will be the same as that found in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which could mean that despite the lower megapixel count, it will deliver better photos due to its features. As for the front camera, it is likely to stay at 13MP.
Finally, there is little knowledge about the battery life of the Pixel 9a. It is estimated to have a capacity of around 4,500mAh, similar to the 4,492mAh battery of the Pixel 8a. It is presumed that charging will be similar to that of the Pixel 8a, with wired charging at 18W and wireless charging at 7.5W.
