Google Pixel 8a Specs Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | Starting at US$499 (128GB) |
| Availability | Mid-May 2024 |
| Design | Familiar Pixel design with rounded edges and a rear camera bar |
| New matte finish in multiple colors (Aloe Green, Bay Blue) | |
| Classic colors: Obsidian Black, Porcelain White | |
| Display | 6.1-inch FHD+ pOLED display |
| Upgraded Actua display with 40% higher peak brightness | |
| 120Hz refresh rate (disabled by default) | |
| Processor | Google Tensor G3 chip |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB or 256GB (first for A-series) |
| Rear Camera | Dual camera system |
| 64MP main sensor | |
| 13MP ultrawide sensor | |
| Front Camera | 13MP with wide field of view |
| Software | Stock Android with guaranteed updates for 7 years |
| Battery | Larger battery than Pixel 7a (exact capacity unknown) |
| Other Features | Wireless charging |
| IP67 water and dust resistance | |
| Google’s AI camera features (Magic Eraser, improved Night Sight) |
The Google Pixel 8a is the latest mid-range offering from Google, aiming to deliver excellent value with its focus on software and AI features. Here’s a closer look at the phone’s specs, pricing, and some potential drawbacks to consider.
Design and Display
- Familiar Pixel design with rounded edges and a rear camera bar.
- New matte finish with two vibrant colors (Aloe Green and Bay Blue) alongside classic Obsidian Black and Porcelain White.
- Upgraded Actua display with 40% higher peak brightness than Pixel 7a for better outdoor visibility.
- 6.1-inch FHD+ pOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate (though disabled by default).
Performance and Storage
- Powered by the Google Tensor G3 chip, the same as last year’s flagship Pixel phones.
- Storage options start at 128GB, with a new 256GB option available for the first time in the A-series.
Cameras
- Dual rear camera system with a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide sensor (unchanged from Pixel 7a).
- 13MP front-facing camera with a wide field of view.
- Pixel’s renowned AI-powered camera features like Magic Eraser and improved Night Sight are present.
Other Features
- Larger battery compared to Pixel 7a (exact capacity not mentioned in the review).
- Wireless charging support.
- IP67 water and dust resistance.
- Stock Android experience with guaranteed software updates for seven years.
Pricing and Availability
- Starting price of US$499 for the 128GB variant.
- Available in various colors starting mid-May.
Potential Concerns
- The reviewer highlights a potential confusion with Google Assistant. The Pixel 8a comes with the prominent Gemini app, while Google Search uses a separate Google Assistant. This inconsistency might be addressed in the future with Gemini taking over all assistant functionalities.
- The Pixel 7, which was awarded “phone of the year” by some reviewers, is still available brand new and offers several advantages over the Pixel 8a, including a brighter display, bigger battery, and potentially a better camera experience. The price difference between the two phones is relatively small.
Overall
The Google Pixel 8a appears to be a solid mid-range option with a focus on Google’s AI features and a capable camera system. Upgraded aspects like the display and storage options make it an attractive choice. However, the Pixel 7’s continued presence and the potential confusion with Assistant implementations are factors to consider before making a purchase decision.
