Rumor mill: The Pixel 9a will serve as Google’s next mid-range smartphone and an upgrade over the Pixel 8a, which was released earlier this year. It is expected to arrive next year, and a significant leak has now provided insight into its key specifications. The leak additionally sheds light on the device’s price and anticipated launch window.
According to unnamed sources cited by Android Headlines, the Pixel 9a will feature a 6.3-inch “Actua” display with a variable refresh rate ranging from 60Hz to 120Hz. This is slightly larger than the 6.1-inch screen on the Pixel 8a and matches the standard Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, which also sport 6.3-inch panels.
The Pixel 9a is expected to use the same Tensor G4 chip found in the flagship Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. This SoC will be paired with 8GB of RAM and storage options of either 128GB or 256GB, depending on the model.
The handset is said to include a 5,000mAh battery with support for 18W wired and 7.5W wireless charging – a substantial improvement over the Pixel 8a’s 4,500mAh battery, though with no apparent increase in charging speeds. Additionally, the Pixel 9a is reported to measure 154.7 mm x 73.3 mm x 8.9 mm and weigh approximately 186 grams.
Imaging options on the Pixel 9a will reportedly include a new 48MP primary camera, along with a 13MP ultra-wide shooter and a 13MP selfie snapper. Earlier leaks suggested that the primary camera will utilize the same sensor found in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, while the ultra-wide and selfie cameras will retain the sensors from the Pixel 8a.
While the 48MP primary sensor is slightly smaller than the 50MP unit on the Pixel 8a, it is still expected to offer improved image quality compared to the current model. However, a disappointing aspect is the continued absence of a telephoto camera, which is in high demand among smartphone buyers.
On the software front, the Pixel 9a is rumored to feature the “Add Me” function originally seen in the Pixel 9 series. This feature uses AI and augmented reality to seamlessly merge two photos into one, creating the appearance that everyone is in the same shot.
The device is expected to launch in March 2025 for $499. If accurate, this would indicate that Google is not planning to raise the price of its mid-range handset, which is good news for potential buyers.
