Google introduces Pixel 9a with Tensor G4 chip and great autonomy

Google has officially unveiled the Pixel 9a, the most cheap model in the Pixel 9 series. The new model is priced at $499 and will be available in April.

The Pixel 9a uses the same design language as the previous Pixel 9 series devices. The front features a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 panel with flat corners that merge into the aluminium frame. On the back, a flat polycarbonate panel completes the slab-like appearance. This is a significant shift from the rounded corners of its predecessor, the Pixel 8A. The phone is now IP68 qualified for dust and water protection.

The Pixel 9a features a slightly larger 6.3-inch pOLED display with a resolution of 2424x1080 and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. The new display can produce 1800 nits of brightness in HDR content (tested at 100% display area) and up to 2700 nits in peak brightness (measured at 5% display area). The display supports HDR, but only in 8-bit colour depth. The display also has an optical fingerprint reader.

The Pixel 9a is powered by Google's latest Tensor G4 microprocessor, which also includes the Titan M2 security processor. It includes 8GB of memory as standard and an option of 128GB or 256GB of internal storage.

The phone also has a redesigned camera setup. The Pixel 7a and 8a now have a 48MP f1.7 camera with Quad PD Dual Pixel AF and OIS, replacing the previous 64MP device. It can record 4K video at up to 60fps. The ultra-wide camera, however, is the same 13MP f2.2 unit from before. Similarly, the 8a's front 13MP camera has been carried over, however it can only record 4K video at 30fps.

However, the Pixel 9a has a few new photography features. It's the first A-series phone to include a Macro Focus feature, which allows you to capture details up close. It is also the first A-series phone to include Google's Astrophotography capability.

The Pixel 9a features a larger 5100mAh Li-Ion battery with a claimed battery life of 30+ hours. It includes "fast" wired charging (23W) and Qi wireless charging capabilities.

The Pixel 9a ships with Android 15, which includes all of Google's new AI features. As with other Pixel devices, it will receive seven years of OS and security upgrades after launch.

The Pixel 9a comes in four colours: obsidian, porcelain, iris, and peony, albeit not all colours will be accessible in every location.