Although Google just unveiled the Pixel 9 lineup in August, the excitement doesn’t stop there. According to a report by Android Headlines and OnLeaks, high-resolution images of the forthcoming Pixel 9a have surfaced. The anticipated launch is set for 2025, likely coinciding with Google I/O in spring.
Interestingly, the Pixel 9a is breaking from the tradition established by previous A-series models. While earlier iterations closely mirrored the main Pixel series’ design, this year’s Pixel 9 lineup features a fresh remodel with a pill-shaped camera bar instead of one extending into the frame.
The Pixel 9a appears to have undergone yet another transformation in its camera bar design, setting it apart from the Pixel 9. This new device is poised to feature a dual-camera layout that sits seamlessly with the back of the phone, diverging from the more prominent camera island module prominent in the Pixel 9. It may include a slight ring around the camera, but it will be less obtrusive compared to its predecessors.
Another notable aspect is the dual-camera setup on the Pixel 9a, which seemingly combines a primary and an ultrawide lens, potentially omitting a telephoto option. Additionally, the display seems to have noticeable bezels, which is typical for more budget-friendly devices, likely priced under $500.
Though I have come to appreciate the iconic camera bar of Pixel devices, it’s refreshing to see a design that conforms more closely to the back surface. Nostalgia hits when I think of earlier smartphone models with simpler camera setups that didn’t disrupt the device’s stability when placed flat on a surface. Assuming these renders are accurate, kudos to Google for embracing this change.
In contrast to the standard Pixel 9 lineup, the Pixel 9a is set to debut with Android 15. Although Android 15 has yet to launch officially and is currently in beta, its release is anticipated in October, making it logical for the Pixel 9a to be introduced with the new OS. It’s also predicted to receive seven years of updates, adhering to Google’s commitment.
It’s worth noting that the Pixel 9a may be among the final devices to utilize a Samsung-manufactured processor. The upcoming Pixel 10, slated for release next fall, is expected to feature a fully customized Google chip produced by TSMC.
Specifications for the Pixel 9a are likely to mirror those of the recently introduced Pixel 8a, including a 6.1-inch display, 8GB of RAM (or possibly more), and a minimum of 128GB of storage. Like its Pixel 9 counterparts, the device will incorporate a Tensor G4 chipset, with some improvements to battery longevity compared to the previous model.
For context, the Pixel 8a was unveiled on May 7, 2024, just prior to Google I/O 2024. While we don’t have specific dates yet, it’s reasonable to expect the Pixel 9a to launch around a similar window.