Pixel 8a: What to expect from Google's upcoming affordable smartphone

Software giant Google is expected to launch the Pixel 8a smartphone at its annual developers-focused conference, Google I/O, on May 14. The affordable smartphone in the Pixel 8 series is expected to be powered by its Tensor G3 chip, which is the same chip that powers the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

Pixel 8a would likely inherit a few artificial intelligence features from the flagship Pixel 8 series. As  per Android Authority report, the smartphone would feature Magic Editor, Audio Magic Eraser, and the Best Take. These are available on the Pixel 8 series along with other AI features.

Like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, the Pixel 8a is likely to get seven years of software, security, and feature drop update commitment from Google.

Design-wise, the Pixel 8a is expected to resemble the Pixel 8 with slightly more curved corners. Like the Pixel 7a, the smartphone would boast Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection and IP67 for resistance against water and dust.

As per media reports, the Pixel 8a would get a significant display upgrade with a 120Hz refresh rate OLED panel, compared to the 90Hz refresh rate on the current generation Pixel 7a. This could match the display quality of its premium counterparts in the Pixel 8 series.

Google Pixel 8a: Expected specifications

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  Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 2400 x 1080 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 1,400nits peak brightness
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  Processor: Tensor G3
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  RAM: 8GB
• 
  Storage: up to 256GB
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  Rear Camera: 64MP (Sony IMX787) primary + 13MP (Sony IMX712) ultra-wide
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  Front Camera: 13MP (Sony IMX712)
• 
  Battery: 4,942 mAh
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  Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3, IP67
• 
  OS: Android 14
• 
  OS support: up to 7 years

First Published: May 03 2024 | 4:43 PM IST