Google has officially unveiled the Pixel 9a, offering a budget-friendly option in the Pixel 9 lineup. With a starting price of $499, the phone will be available for purchase this April, bringing advanced features usually found in higher-end devices.
The Google Pixel 9a combines affordability with premium features, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users who don’t want to compromise on performance, battery life, and software longevity. With a high-quality camera system, a powerful chipset, and long-term Android updates, it stands out as one of the best mid-range smartphones in 2024.
Google Pixel 9a Full Specifications
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (1×3.1 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3×2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 4×1.9 GHz Cortex-A520) |
| GPU | Mali-G715 MP7 |
| OS | Android 15, 7 years of major OS updates |
| Supported Networks | 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, 5G |
| Display | 6.3″ P-OLED, 1080 x 2424 pixels, 120Hz, 2700 nits peak, HDR |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Card Slot | no |
| Main Camera | 48 MP, f/1.7, 25mm (wide), 1/2.0″, 0.8µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS 13 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1/3.1″, 1.12µm |
| Front Camera | 13 MP, f/2.2, 20mm (ultrawide), 1/3.1″, 1.12µm |
| Colors | Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris, Peony |
| Fingerprint sensor | Under-display |
| Battery | 5,100 mAh, 23W wired charging |
| Price | $820 |
Design and Display
The Pixel 9a adopts the same design language as the rest of the Pixel 9 series. It features a flat glass front with smooth edges that transition into a sturdy aluminum frame. The back panel is made of polycarbonate, ensuring durability while keeping the weight manageable.
Additionally, the Pixel 9a comes with an IP68 rating, providing superior water and dust resistance compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 8a.
OLED Display
The Google Pixel 9a sports a 6.3-inch pOLED screen with a resolution of 2424 x 1080 pixels. It supports a 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth user experience. The display reaches up to 1800 nits of brightness when playing HDR content and can peak at 2700 nits in specific areas (5% of the screen).
Color options for the Pixel 9a include Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris, and Peony, though availability may vary by region.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Pixel 9a runs on Google’s latest Tensor G4 chipset, paired with the Titan M2 security chip for enhanced encryption and device protection. The phone comes with 8GB of RAM and offers storage options of either 128GB or 256GB.
Android 15 and Long-Term Software Support
The Pixel 9a ships with Android 15 right out of the box, ensuring users get the latest software experience. Google guarantees seven years of OS and security updates, one of the longest update promises in the Android ecosystem.
READ MORE: Google Releases Android 16 Beta 3: What’s New and When to Expect the Final Version
Google Pixel 9a Cameras
Despite a reduction in megapixel count from previous A-series models, the Pixel 9a introduces a powerful 48MP f/1.7 main camera with Quad PD Dual Pixel Autofocus (AF) and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). Accompanying the primary sensor is a 13MP ultrawide camera, while a 13MP front-facing camera is available for selfies and video calls.
Exclusive Features
For the first time in the A-series, the Pixel 9a includes Macro Focus mode for detailed close-up shots and Astrophotography mode for capturing the night sky.
Battery Life and Pricing
Long-Lasting Battery Performance
Equipped with a 5,100mAh battery, the Pixel 9a promises over 30 hours of battery life on a single charge. This makes it the largest battery ever in a Pixel device, even surpassing the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
The device supports 23W wired fast charging and Qi wireless charging, ensuring quick and convenient recharging.
Pricing and Availability
The Pixel 9a starts at $499 for the base variant. Users who need more storage can opt for the 256GB model, though pricing varies by region.
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