Google launches Pixel 8a with future-proof technology

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Google launches the Pixel 8a. A relatively small, affordable smartphone with future-proof technology for anyone who wants to use their next cell phone for as long as possible.

Google is launching a cheaper offshoot six months after its current top models Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. The Pixel 8a is a technically slightly slimmed-down Pixel 8 that is intended to attract Apple and Samsung users to Google’s camp with a reasonable starting price of just under 500 francs and a commendable 7 years of Android and security updates.

Like the larger Pro model, the cheaper Pixel 8a has a matte back and a polished aluminum frame. The “normal” Pixel 8 is available with a satin metal frame and a polished glass back.

The Pixel 8a is almost the same size as its predecessor, the Pixel 7a, and slightly larger than the Pixel 8, iPhone 15 or Galaxy S24. Nevertheless, the 6.1-inch display is slightly smaller than in the Pixel 8 because the display edges are wider. Other than that, it’s like the more expensive Pixel 8 models.

Google’s new A series is available in two new colors: Aloe and Bay. Additionally, the device is also offered in neutral Obsidian and Porcelain color options.

Google has also improved the internal values: The new Google Phone is made from at least 24 percent recycled materials (for the Pixel 8 from 2023, Google stated this value as 18 percent). Like the other Pixel 8 models, the Pixel 8a receives seven years of Android and security updates, while its predecessor, the Pixel 7a, receives five years of security updates.

The most important specifications

The new OLED display is 40 percent brighter than the same size display in the Pixel 7a. With a maximum of 2000 nits, it shines just as brightly as the Pixel 8 or the much more expensive iPhone 15, i.e. it is extremely bright. The refresh rate of 120 Hz corresponds to the more expensive Pixel 8 (Pro), just trumps the Pixel 7a (90 Hz). the iPhone 15 (60 Hz) clearly.

The Pixel 8a comes with 128 GB of storage as standard. For the first time, a larger storage capacity of 256 GB is available on a Pixel A model, but only in the black version. If you want 512 GB, you have to go for the large Pixel 8 Pro. As with the Pixel 8, the RAM is limited to 8 GB (12 GB with the Pixel 8 Pro).

The battery (4492 mAh) is only slightly smaller than in the Pixel 8 and can optionally be charged wirelessly. The battery capacity should easily last for a day, but experience shows that Pixel smartphones do not set any records when it comes to battery life.

Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 are technically very close. The higher quality camera or the larger internal memory are probably the main reason why you would only consider the Pro model. The camera in the Pixel 8a corresponds to the already very good camera in the predecessor Pixel 7a. In this respect, the photos from the Pixel 8a are unlikely to disappoint, especially since Google’s AI gets the most out of every shot. A function that is always useful in everyday life is the ability to subsequently sharpen blurry photos with just a tap.

Three examples of concrete AI applications:

Best shot: Finally a good family photo. With the “Best Shot” function, faces with grimaces or closed eyes can be subsequently replaced with a better version at the touch of a button. This is intended for family and group photos when not everyone is looking into the camera or someone looks unflattering. Saving photos like this doesn’t always work in practice, but it often works pretty well.

Magic Editor: Photoshop for Dummies. With the “Magic Editor” people and objects in images can be repositioned, resized or deleted with just a few taps – and the results are often amazingly good.

Audio Eraser: Remove annoying noises in videos. The “audio eraser” is also practical in some situations. This is a function that filters out noise from the video – a kind of subsequent noise canceling for the sound.

Other AI functions run invisibly in the background, for example when loud background noises are automatically filtered when making calls.

Updates and spare parts for the next few years

Google advertises the Pixel 8a as a particularly long-lasting smartphone. In addition to seven years of software updates, spare parts for repairs will probably also be available for seven years, as was already announced for the Pixel 8 (Pro). Unfortunately, Pixel smartphones, like iPhones or Galaxys, are only moderately repairable. All major manufacturers are miles behind Fairphone in this regard.

The Pixel 8a is dustproof and will keep water out for a short period of time (IP67) if dropped. However, it is not completely waterproof (IP68), like the Pixel 8, Galaxy S24 or iPhone 15.

The Google Pixel 8a will go on sale in Switzerland on May 14, 2024 for 499 francs. It can be pre-ordered now. The price is fair, especially since the device has a future-proof processor and will receive updates for at least seven years. Nevertheless, you have to ask yourself whether you want to pay 500 francs for the Pixel 8a when the better Pixel 8 is currently available directly from Google for 579 francs and from other retailers from around 540 francs.

By the way: According to Google, anyone who “purchases a Pixel 8a from a qualified dealer” by June 3rd will receive a Google Store credit worth 150 francs in addition to the trade-in value of the old smartphone. In principle, it is possible to purchase a Pixel 8a for well under 350 francs.

This article is first at “Watson” appeared.

You can read more about Google’s Pixel 8 here.