There have been rumors of the impending Google Pixel 9a even though Google recently revealed the Pixel 9 series in August. This low-cost phone’s possible design is revealed via leaked renders that OnLeaks and Android Headlines published.
Rumored to depart from the design language of its flagship siblings, the Pixel 9a is scheduled for release in 2025, possibly during Google I/O in the spring. The Pixel 9a will have a distinct design, in contrast to the A-series Pixels that followed the main Pixel line’s designs. The camera system’s notable departure from the Pixel 9 pill-shaped camera island suggests a more conventional approach.
This change from the Pixel 9 design increases the possibility that Google is experimenting with distinct designs for its low-cost A-series models to appeal to a particular user base with varying tastes in design. Embracing a unique design philosophy, the Pixel 9a breaks from the large camera bar that has come to be associated with its Pixel siblings.
The 9a has a flush dual camera system in place of an outward-projecting camera island. It offers a much less noticeable hump than the obvious camera bars found on recent Pixel models, even though a slight ring may surround the module. The Pixel 9a stands out thanks to its subtle design approach, which also provides a clean and elegant appearance.
The Pixel 9a has a few other significant features, but [name the most significant change] is perhaps the most noticeable difference.
Firstly, it seems to have a dual camera setup with an ultrawide lens and a primary camera. This indicates that a telephoto sensor—a standard component of more expensive models—is missing.
Second, the screen still has observable bezels, which is a feature that is frequently present in devices that are more affordable. Nonetheless, this is hardly shocking given the anticipated price point of less than $500.
It’s a positive development that Google decided to do away with the recognizable camera bar on the Pixel 9a. Although the Pixel line has come to be associated with the bar, a flush camera module provides a more elegant look and does away with the annoying wobbling when using the phone on a flat surface. It’s both a useful upgrade and a sentimental throwback to earlier days.
In addition, it’s a wise decision to release Android 15 on the Pixel 9a. This guarantees that the phone will get the newest software and be eligible for the extra seven-year support that Google offers for Pixel smartphones. The early release gives consumers a smooth and state-of-the-art experience right from the start and corresponds nicely with the planned October debut of Android 15.
There are rumors going that the Pixel 9a, which will likely be released in early May 2025, would be the final Pixel phone to have a chipset manufactured by Samsung. For the next Pixel 10, which will launch in the fall of this year, Google is reportedly switching to a wholly bespoke Google chip from TSMC.
The Pixel 9a’s specifications are anticipated to be similar to those of the Pixel 8a, which was released in May 2024, even though the CPU update may be the most notable. This indicates that we should expect a familiar 6.1-inch screen, an increase in RAM to at least 8GB (if not more), and a minimum of 128GB of storage.
The newest Tensor G4 chip, which offers better performance and possibly longer battery life than its predecessor, will power the Pixel 9a.
As the Pixel 8a set the precedent, the Pixel 9a announcement is probably coming early in May 2025, right before Google I/O. This timeline fits with Google’s usual release timetable, although being conjectured.
With the Pixel 10, Google may be taking a significant step toward realizing its goal of developing a completely integrated hardware and software ecosystem by switching to a chip manufactured by TSMC. But the Pixel 9a may be the last opportunity for enthusiasts to use a Pixel phone with a Samsung chip.
