The highly anticipated Pixel 9a has officially been revealed by Google. Departing from the familiar camera bar design seen since the Pixel 5 in 2020, this latest model presents a refreshing aesthetic. Priced slightly lower than its predecessor, the Pixel 8a, it introduces several innovative AI enhancements, making its appearance the standout feature of this release.

In contrast to the previous model, the Pixel 9a diverges significantly from the design of the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro. Although its dimensions are similar to those of the standard Pixel 9—slightly lighter at 6.6 ounces compared to 7 ounces—the display specifications are almost identical, aside from a reduced contrast ratio. For those acquainted with the Pixel phones of recent years, this model may initially seem disconnected from its lineage.

Pixel 8a (left) vs. Pixel 9a (right)
Credit: Michelle Ehrhardt

With the elimination of the camera bar, the Pixel 9a adopts a flat and sleek design reminiscent of an iPhone, featuring dual rear cameras housed in a small, oval bump at the top left, adjacent to the flash. This alteration results in a slimmer profile overall, even though the overall body dimensions remain largely unchanged. The new design could reignite consumer interest in the Pixel brand.

Credit: Michelle Ehrhardt

As for the camera capabilities, the specifications are distinct from both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 9 models. The rear features 48MP and 13MP lenses, while the front sports a 13MP camera. The various apertures and field-of-view configurations do not correspond neatly to existing devices within Google’s lineup. Excitement surrounds how well this phone will perform in photographic scenarios once it is tested.

Credit: Michelle Ehrhardt

The battery capabilities also show improvements, with Google estimating over 30 hours of usage on the Pixel 9a—a slight enhancement over both its predecessors. While RAM and storage figures remain the same as the 8a at 8GB and a minimum of 128GB, the processor is upgraded to the Google Tensor G4, aligning it with the Pixel 9’s specifications.

This results in a distinctive launch, presenting choices for consumers that could broaden the appeal of this model beyond just being a less expensive alternative to the Pixel 9. This latest iteration, priced at $500 compared to the Pixel 9’s $800, also introduces exciting software features not found on the Pixel 8a, such as a Macro Focus mode and exclusive Pixel AI capabilities including Add Me, which allows for inclusion in photos even when not present at the time the picture was taken—though results may vary.

Credit: Michelle Ehrhardt

The Pixel 9a is available in traditional colors of black, white, and pink, introducing a vibrant purple hue reminiscent of the light blue featured in the Pixel 8, which was notably absent from the standard Pixel 9 offering.

Overall, this A-series model promises to be an exciting addition to the Pixel family, laying the groundwork for potential advancements in the upcoming Pixel 10. The Pixel 9a is slated to launch on April 10 in the US, Canada, and the UK, followed by releases on April 14 in Europe and April 16 in regions including Australia, India, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia. A Japanese release is marked as “coming soon,” though pre-orders have not yet been established for any region.