Google Pixel 8a hands-on: Flagship AI and a 120Hz OLED screen for $499

Engadget
7 May 202404:56

TLDRGoogle introduces the Pixel 8a, a budget-friendly smartphone priced at $499, featuring a Tensor G3 chip and a 120Hz OLED screen, an upgrade from the 90Hz panel of its predecessor. The device sports a 6.1-inch display, slightly smaller than the Pixel 8's 6.2-inch screen, with thicker bezels. Constructed from recycled plastic with a matte finish, the Pixel 8a offers water resistance with an IP67 rating and a battery of 4492mAh. It includes a 64-megapixel main sensor and a 13-megapixel ultrawide sensor for photography, supported by the Tensor G3 chip for advanced AI features like Best Shot, Audio Magic Eraser, and Live Translate. The Pixel 8a is available in Bay Porcelain, Obsidian, and a new Aloe hue, with the latter being the exclusive color for the 256GB storage variant. It provides 7 years of software and security updates, surpassing the Pixel 7A's 3 years of Android patches and 5 years of security updates. However, it lacks Pro Camera controls, faster wireless charging speeds, and a dedicated zoom lens found in the Pixel 8 Pro. The Pixel 8a is a compelling mid-range option, offering excellent value for money.

Takeaways

  • 📱 Google Pixel 8a is priced at $499, offering flagship AI features and a 120Hz OLED screen.
  • 🔄 The device features a Tensor G3 chip and a 120Hz OLED display, an upgrade from the 90Hz panel on the previous model.
  • 📐 The screen size is 6.1 inches, slightly smaller than the Pixel 8's 6.2 inches, with thicker bezels.
  • 📐 The phone is made from recycled plastic with a matte finish that mimics the texture of cashmere.
  • 💧 It retains water resistance with an IP67 rating, though it's slightly lower than the Pixel 8's IP68.
  • 🔋 The battery capacity is 4492mAh, and Google claims improved longevity due to power efficiency enhancements.
  • 🚀 For 2024, the Pixel 8a introduces a 256GB storage variant, a first for the A series.
  • 🛡️ The phone will receive 7 years of software and security updates, a significant increase from previous models.
  • 🎨 New color options include Bay Porcelain, Obsidian, and a vibrant Aloe hue.
  • 📷 The camera setup remains the same, with a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide sensor, known for excellent image quality in its price range.
  • 🤖 AI features from the Pixel 8 are supported, including Best Shot, Audio Magic Eraser, and Live Translate.
  • 📉 Some flagship features are missing, such as Pro Camera controls, faster wireless charging (7.5W vs 18W), and a dedicated zoom lens.

Q & A

  • What is the price of the new Google Pixel 8a?

    -The new Google Pixel 8a is priced at $499.

  • What chip does the Google Pixel 8a use?

    -The Google Pixel 8a uses a Tensor G3 chip.

  • What is the refresh rate of the Pixel 8a's OLED screen?

    -The Pixel 8a's OLED screen has a 120Hz refresh rate.

  • How does the Pixel 8a's battery capacity compare to the Pixel 8?

    -The Pixel 8a has a slightly smaller battery capacity at 4492 milliamp hours compared to the Pixel 8.

  • What is the IP rating for water resistance on the Pixel 8a?

    -The Pixel 8a has an IP67 rating for water resistance.

  • How many years of software and security updates does the Pixel 8a receive?

    -The Pixel 8a is getting 7 years of software and security updates.

  • What new color options are available for the Pixel 8a?

    -The Pixel 8a is available in Bay porcelain, obsidian, and a new aloe hue.

  • What storage variants does the Pixel 8a offer?

    -The Pixel 8a offers a base model with 128GB of storage and a new 256GB variant.

  • Does the Pixel 8a have the same camera sensors as the Pixel 8?

    -Yes, the Pixel 8a uses the same 64-megapixel and 13-megapixel sensors for its main and ultrawide cameras as the Pixel 8.

  • What AI features are supported by the Pixel 8a?

    -The Pixel 8a supports AI features like Best Shot, Audio Magic Eraser, Circle to Search, Live Translate, and more.

  • What are some features that are not available on the Pixel 8a compared to the flagship Pixel models?

    -The Pixel 8a lacks Pro Camera controls, has not upgraded its wireless charging speeds to 18 Watts, and does not have a dedicated zoom lens.

  • When does the Pixel 8a go on sale?

    -The Pixel 8a goes on sale starting next week on May 14th, 2024.

Outlines

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📱 Google Pixel AA: Mid-Range Marvel at $4.99

Google introduces the Pixel AA, a budget-friendly smartphone priced at just $4.99, which is $200 less than the Pixel 8's regular starting price. The device features a familiar design with a Tensor G3 chip and a 120Hz OLED display, slightly smaller than the Pixel 8's at 6.1 inches. The Pixel AA has thicker bezels but is almost identical in size to the Pixel 8. It is made from recycled plastic with a matte finish and is water-resistant with an IP67 rating. The battery is smaller at 4,492 milliamp hours, but Google claims better longevity due to power efficiency improvements. The Pixel AA offers a 64-megapixel main camera and a 13-megapixel ultrawide camera, the same as the Pixel 8 A, and supports AI features introduced with the Pixel 8. It also provides 7 years of software and security updates, a significant upgrade from previous models. The Pixel AA comes in new colors, including Bay Porcelain, Obsidian, and a vibrant Aloe Hue, with the latter being the exclusive color for the 256GB storage variant. Notably, the Pixel AA lacks Pro Camera controls and wireless charging speeds are capped at 7.5 Watts, unlike the 18 Watts on premium models. Sales begin on May 14th, and the Pixel 7A will remain on sale at a reduced price of $3.49.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Google Pixel 8a

The Google Pixel 8a is the subject of the video, a smartphone developed by Google. It is part of the Pixel series known for its camera quality and software features. In the video, it is highlighted as an affordable option with flagship features, emphasizing its value for money.

💡Tensor G3 chip

The Tensor G3 chip is the processor used in the Pixel 8a, which powers the device's AI capabilities. It is a significant component as it enables advanced features and ensures smooth performance, as mentioned in the context of supporting Google's AI features introduced with the Pixel 8.

💡120Hz OLED screen

The 120Hz OLED screen refers to the display technology used in the Pixel 8a, which allows for a refresh rate of 120 times per second. This is an upgrade from the 90Hz panel of the previous model, resulting in smoother visuals and better user experience, especially for gaming and video playback.

💡Durability

Durability is a key selling point for the Pixel 8a, as the material covering its display is made out of Gorilla Glass, known for its strength and resistance to damage. Although the specific version of Gorilla Glass is not mentioned, it is implied to offer a certain level of protection against scratches and impacts.

💡Recycled plastic

The use of recycled plastic in the construction of the Pixel 8a's back is an environmentally friendly choice that contributes to the device's sustainability. It also provides a unique matte finish that is said to mimic the texture of cashmere, offering a distinct tactile experience.

💡Water resistance

The Pixel 8a's water resistance, with an IP67 rating, means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This is slightly less than the IP68 rating of the regular Pixel 8 but still provides a level of protection against water damage.

💡Battery life

Battery life is a critical aspect of any smartphone, and the Pixel 8a's battery capacity is noted to be 4,492 milliamp hours. Despite being smaller than the regular Pixel 8's battery, Google claims that power efficiency improvements will result in better longevity, which is a significant consideration for users.

💡Storage variants

The Pixel 8a offers two storage options: a base model with 128GB and a new 256GB variant. This provides consumers with more flexibility in terms of storage capacity, catering to those who require more space for apps, photos, and videos.

💡Software and security updates

The Pixel 8a is promised to receive 7 years of software and security updates, which is a significant commitment from Google. This is more than double the 3 years of Android patches and 5 years of security updates offered on the Pixel 7A, ensuring the device remains up-to-date and secure for a longer period.

💡Color options

The Pixel 8a is available in refreshed color options, including Bay Porcelain and Obsidian, with the latter being the exclusive color for the 256GB storage variant. A new Aloe hue is also introduced, offering a bright and saturated color choice, which is part of the device's appeal.

💡AI features

The Pixel 8a supports a range of AI features thanks to the Tensor G3 chip, including 'Best Shot', 'Audio Magic', 'Eraser Circle to Search', and 'Live Translate'. These features enhance the user experience by leveraging artificial intelligence for improved photography, audio processing, and language translation.

💡Pro Camera controls

The lack of Pro Camera controls on the Pixel 8a means that users who prefer manual camera settings, such as adjusting shutter speed, ISO, and white balance, may find the device less appealing. This is a trade-off for the more affordable price point, as these controls are available on the higher-end Pixel 8 Pro.

💡Wireless charging speeds

The Pixel 8a supports wireless charging but at a slower rate of 7.5 Watts, compared to the 18 Watts available on premium Pixel models. This slower charging speed is a consideration for users who value quick charging capabilities.

💡Dual-camera setup

Unlike the Pixel 8 Pro, the Pixel 8a features a dual-camera setup without a dedicated zoom lens. This means that while it maintains the quality of the main and ultrawide cameras, it does not offer the same level of optical zoom capabilities, which could be a deciding factor for photography enthusiasts.

Highlights

Google Pixel 8a is priced at $499, offering flagship AI and a 120Hz OLED screen.

The Pixel 8a features a Tensor G3 chip and a 120Hz OLED screen, an upgrade from the 90Hz panel on the previous model.

The display size is 6.1 inches, slightly smaller than the Pixel 8's 6.2 inches.

Thicker bezels are noticeable on the Pixel 8a compared to the regular Pixel 8.

The Pixel 8a's display is covered with durable Gorilla Glass, though the specific version is not disclosed.

The phone's back is made from recycled plastic with a matte finish designed to mimic the texture of cashmere.

The Pixel 8a retains water resistance with an IP67 rating, slightly lower than the Pixel 8's IP68.

The battery capacity is 4492mAh, smaller than the Pixel 8, but power efficiency improvements promise better longevity.

For 2024, the Pixel 8a introduces a 256GB storage variant, a first for any A series Pixel.

The Pixel 8a will receive 7 years of software and security updates, a significant increase from previous models.

New color options include Bay Porcelain, Obsidian, and a vibrant Aloe Hue.

The photography capabilities remain the same, utilizing a 64-megapixel main and 13-megapixel ultrawide sensor.

Powered by the Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8a supports advanced AI features introduced with the Pixel 8.

The Pixel 8a does not include Pro Camera controls, a limitation for those seeking manual camera settings.

Wireless charging is limited to 7.5W, lower than the 18W available on premium Pixel models.

The Pixel 8a lacks a dedicated zoom lens found in the Pixel 8 Pro.

Despite some feature trade-offs, the Pixel 8a delivers 90-95% of the top-tier Pixel 8 experience at a more affordable price.

The Pixel 8a is $200 less than the Pixel 8, positioning it as a strong mid-range Android phone option.

The Pixel 7A remains on sale at a reduced price of $349, offering value to those prioritizing photography over AI features.

Official sales for the Pixel 8a begin on May 14th, following the live announcement.

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