The Google Pixel 8a, the next mid-range smartphone from the tech giant, has been spotted online in some hands-on images. The device, which is expected to launch in spring 2024, shows a departure from the design of the Pixel 7a and a resemblance to the upcoming Pixel 8 series.
The hands-on images of the Pixel 8a were shared by a reliable tipster, Abhishek Yadav, on X. The device is allegedly codenamed Akita and is expected to come with Tensor G3 under the hood, the same chip powering the Pixel 8 series. The device shows up in a blue hue colorway and with sizable bezels.
The images further showcase the design of the Pixel 8a, which appears to have more rounded corners, unlike the Pixel 7a, which featured fairly angular edges. The design, however, looks akin to the upcoming Pixel 8 series, which also features rounded corners. This is to be expected because the device is nonetheless a toned-down version of the flagship series.
The camera visor also looks familiar; we can see a dual camera setup accompanied by an LED flash. On the front, the rounded corners appear more significant next to some thick bezels. There is a punch-hole display, and the rounded corners make the display look smaller than the more conventional display, as seen on the Pixel 7a. We’re a little skeptical about this leak, so take it with a grain of salt, as it’s quite early to see a working prototype of a device showing up in leaks several months ahead of the expected release.
A scaled-back Tensor G3 chipset
According to earlier leaks, Google has designed the Pixel 8a with a scaled-back Tensor G3 chipset, plus 8 GB of RAM. The Tensor G3 is Google’s own custom-made chip that promises to deliver better performance, battery life, and AI capabilities than previous Pixel phones. The chip is also said to support 5G connectivity and advanced camera features.
However, it is likely that the Pixel 8a will have some compromises in terms of processing power and graphics compared to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. The device may also have a lower screen resolution, refresh rate, and battery capacity than its flagship counterparts. The exact specifications and features of the Pixel 8a are still unknown at this point.
A spring 2024 launch date
Assuming Google maintains its previous release schedule, the Pixel 8a will land next spring during its I/O 2024 conference. The device will follow the launch of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, which are expected to be unveiled on October 4, 2023. The Pixel 8 series will be Google’s first flagship phones to feature its own Tensor G3 chip and a new design language.
The Pixel A series has been popular among consumers who want a budget-friendly smartphone with a stock Android experience and timely updates. The Pixel 7a, which was launched in August 2023, received positive reviews for its excellent camera performance, long battery life, and smooth software. The Pixel 8a will likely continue this trend and offer a solid mid-range option for Android fans.
