Google’s Pixel 9 series just launched over a month ago, but another model is already on the horizon – the Pixel 9a. While the Pixel 9a isn’t expected to arrive until Spring, likely around Google’s I/O event, we’ve gotten an early look at its design, thanks to leaks from Onleaks.
One of the biggest design updates this year is the camera bar. Unlike previous models, the Pixel 9a’s camera bar appears nearly flush with the back of the phone, with just a small ring around it that protrudes slightly. This design is reminiscent of the LG V60 ThinQ from a few years ago. The Pixel 9a will inherit the new camera layout of the Pixel 9, featuring both ultrawide and wide lenses. However, one noticeable feature is the large bezels, typical for a phone expected to be priced under $500 but still quite prominent.
A major highlight of the Pixel 9a is its software. It will launch with Android 15, a feat that the rest of the Pixel 9 series didn’t manage. Android 15 hasn’t even rolled out yet, with its official launch slated for October 15. Additionally, the Pixel 9a will benefit from seven years of software updates, continuing Google’s trend of long-term support seen with the Pixel 8a earlier this year.
Interestingly, the Pixel 9a could be the last Google device to use a Samsung-designed processor, as the Pixel 10 is expected to transition to a Google-customized chip made by TSMC. If the pricing is right, the Pixel 9a could prove to be an impressive budget phone option for 2025.
Spec-wise, the Pixel 9a is likely to feature specs similar to the Pixel 8a, which came with a 6.1-inch display, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. The new model will upgrade to the Tensor G4 chip and possibly a slightly larger battery than the 4492mAh capacity in the Pixel 8a. The Pixel 8a was announced on May 7, 2024, and we expect the Pixel 9a to follow a similar timeline for its debut in 2025.