Summary: Google has announced the Pixel 9a, with a larger battery, bigger and brighter display, and the same price – just $499. Pixel 9a goes up for pre-order next month from the Google Store.
Google has finally made it official after many, many months of leaks. Here is the Google Pixel 9a.
This year, the Pixel 9a is getting quite a few changes, however, the price remains the same – just $499. Some of those changes include a new design. Instead of going with the Pixel 9 series design changes, Google decided to make the back flush with the cameras. Which gives it a very unique look, compared to other Pixel devices. This will be a polarizing design choice, but it is what it is.
Speaking of those cameras, Google also changed up the primary sensor this year. The Pixel 9a now sports a 48-megapixel primary camera with Quad PD Dual Pixel, OIS, and CLAF. It also has an f/1.7 aperture while using a 1/2″ sensor size. That makes the camera a downgrade over the Pixel 8a’s primary camera, which was larger and had 64 megapixels. Though, we’ll reserve judgment until we can actually put it through its paces. Additionally, the 13-megapixel ultra-wide remains.
Perhaps the largest upgrade is the battery, quite literally. Google has equipped the Pixel 9a with a 5,100mAh capacity battery which is 13% larger than the battery found in the Pixel 8a. It’s pretty rare to see battery increases that large, year-over-year. This also makes it the largest battery in any Pixel, ever. Google is touting 30+ hour battery life, along with 100-hour battery life with Extreme Battery Saver here.
Launching with Android 15, receiving 7 years of updates
The Pixel 9a will launch with Android 15, as expected since it is the latest version of Android. It will also receive 7 years of updates, which is pretty much unmatched in this price range. That means this phone will be supported until 2032, which is incredible.
Google has also made the Pixel 9a to last a long time, with IP68 certification, a plastic back, and an aluminum frame. The back and frame do come from recycled plastic and aluminum, reducing the carbon impact for the Pixel 9a.
Pre-orders for the Pixel 9a open next month, and they will start shipping soon after. Google is offering the Pixel 9a in four colors: Iris, Peony, Porcelain, and Obsidian. You can learn more in our Google Pixel 9a Buyer’s Guide.
2025-03-19 15:07:48