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Google revealed its new Pixel 8a phone for preorder on May 7, ahead of a release on May 14 for the company’s Google I/O event. The Pixel 8a complements the Pixel 8 series released in October 2023 as a more affordable option while carrying many of the same high-quality characteristics, like flagship-level performance and cameras.
Indeed, starting at $499, the Pixel 8a is less expensive than the base $699 Pixel 8 and $999 Pixel 8 Pro. As such, there are some compromises, but not as many as you’d think for the price difference. In fact, there are so few meaningful compromises that the Pixel 8a puts into question the base Pixel 8’s existence.
Google Pixel 8a: Features
The Pixel 8a runs on the same Google Tensor G3 processor as the flagship Pixel 8 series, so performance should be identical or at least comparable. It also includes two rear cameras — the same as the base Pixel 8. It even has Google’s premium and bright “Actua” OLED display that runs at 120Hz, an upgrade over the Pixel 7a’s 90Hz refresh rate. Albeit, the Pixel 8a’s display is slightly smaller at 6.1 inches compared to the Pixel 8’s 6.2-inch display.
Google is also including the same AI features, some powered by Google’s Gemini Nano AI model from the flagship Pixel 8 series in the Pixel 8a, like Best Take, Magic Editor, Real Tone in Video, Guided Frame for both the front and rear cameras, Circle to Search, and Call Assist, among several others.
It’s also good to see safety features like Crash Detection, Crisis Alerts, and Safety Checks make it to the Pixel 8a. To top it off, Google is supporting the Pixel 8a with Android, security, and feature updates for seven years until 2031, a support window that mirrors the best Google Pixel phones.
So, where are these compromises I mentioned? The Pixel 8a’s back is made of plastic instead of the flagship Pixel 8’s glass, which is totally expected in less expensive phone models. If the Pixel 8a’s back is anything like the Pixel 7a’s plastic back, most people really won’t notice. The Pixel 8a’s black borders around the display are also somewhat thicker than the flagship Pixel 8 phones, which admittedly imparts a less premium vibe.
The Pixel 8a’s cameras aren’t the same as the Pixel 8’s — they’re actually the identical cameras from the Pixel 7a. However, the Pixel 7a takes stunning photos, not just for a $500 phone, but even compared to some of the best Android phones that cost $1,000 or more. With that in mind, we’re expecting the Pixel 8a to take equally good photos.
And finally, the Pixel 8a comes in four color options, including “Aloe,” “Obsidian,” “Porcelain,” and “Bay.”
Google Pixel 8a: Price
There are two storage options for the Pixel 8a models, 128GB and 256GB, with the higher storage option only available in the “Obsidian” colorway.
Google Pixel 8a: Release date
The Google Pixel 8a is available for preorder now from the online Google Store, Best Buy, Amazon, and carriers like Verizon. It will be fully released and available to buy on May 14 from the same retailers and carriers.
