The upcoming Google Pixel 9a has been making waves with recent leaks, providing enthusiasts a tantalizing glimpse into the new mid-range handset from Google. The Pixel 9a features a new pill-shaped dual camera visor, marking a shift from the raised camera visors seen in previous Pixel models. This new visor is expected to house a 48MP primary lens and a 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens.
While the design is less unique compared to older models, the specifications continue to attract attention. A recently leaked hands-on video provided an even closer look at the Pixel 9a. The phone doesn’t stray far from its predecessors in terms of design but opts for the streamlined pill-shaped camera visor instead of the characteristic raised bar.
According to various leaks, other features of the Pixel 9a include a Tensor G4 SoC, a 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR10 Plus support. Storage options are expected to be 128GB and 256GB, with a 5100mAh battery capacity. The Pixel 9a is anticipated to start at a price of $499 and is expected to be officially announced next month.
With numerous leaks revealing various facets of the Pixel 9a, consumers eagerly await its official launch to see how it stacks up against the competition in the mid-range smartphone market. In the latest wave of leaks, a hands-on video has emerged showing the Google Pixel 9a, sparking discussions about the device’s look and feel ahead of its official launch. Compared to its predecessors, early impressions suggest the Pixel 9a has a notably cheaper aesthetic.
The Pixel 9a is expected to adhere to Google’s strategy of offering key features from its flagship models at a more accessible price point. This includes the Tensor G4 processor, up to 8GB of RAM, a 120Hz OLED screen, and the signature software experience that Pixel phones are known for. However, to achieve a lower price tag, certain compromises in materials and design seem to have been made.
A brief video, initially leaked and subsequently removed, but still visible in a Thread post, reveals some of these design choices.
Pixel 9a insights and features revealed
Notably, the Pixel 9a’s Obsidian model sports a rear panel that looks less premium than the 7a and 8a.
While the previous models also incorporated cost-saving changes, they managed to retain a more upscale appearance. One significant shift appears to be in the design of the camera bar and the use of plastic. The Pixel 9a’s camera bar looks different, with plastic rings that contrast with the matte finish of earlier models.
Despite this, some have noted that the device’s plastic build evokes a “Nokia Lumia” vibe, suggesting that it might feel better in hand than it looks. With the Pixel 9a’s launch on the horizon, enthusiasts and potential buyers are keenly observing these early leaks. Full assessments will likely wait until more comprehensive hands-on experiences are available.
The video highlights the Pixel 9a’s minimal camera bump. Although the bump is relatively tiny in thickness, it still indicates two things: this phone won’t be the thinnest on the market, and its camera system doesn’t feature the top-tier sensors requiring larger protrusions. The Pixel 9a is expected to be officially unveiled on March 19, with a release date slated for March 26.
Pricing is anticipated to start at $499 for 128GB of storage, with a 256GB version available for $599. Both models will come with 8GB of RAM, a 6.28-inch OLED screen boasting 2,700-nit peak brightness, and Google’s Tensor G4 SoC. Camera-wise, it will sport a 48 MP main sensor paired with a 13 MP ultrawide camera.
Powering all these features is a robust 5,100 mAh battery. The device will run Android 15 right out of the box and will be available in additional colors, including Porcelain, Iris, and Peony. With these latest leaks, anticipation is building for Google’s next affordable Pixel device, promising a blend of solid performance and vibrant design options.
