A Better Display on the Pixel 8a To Bring It Closer to the Pixel 8
A new report from Android Authority sheds some light on the Pixel 8a, revealing that it could receive a noticeable screen upgrade and widen its availability to a few more countries, among other details.
Last year, a major upgrade in the Pixel 7a was the addition of a 90Hz display, similar to that of the Pixel 7. The upcoming Pixel 8a will further narrow its gap with the Pixel 8, thanks to a better display panel.
The Pixel 8a could have a 6.1-inch screen, with the refresh rate improved to 120Hz and HDR brightness peaking at 1,400 nits. These upgrades align the Pixel 8a’s display with the Pixel 8. Also, the Pixel 8 landed with a smaller display at 6.2 inches, so the Pixel 8a with a 6.1-inch display would be reminiscent even sizing-wise.
Last week, Google added official support for DisplayPort on the Pixel 8 series via a software update. This feature essentially allows you to connect your phone to an external display via the USB-C port. The upcoming Pixel 8a will ship with this feature out of the box.
Same Camera Hardware, Because Google Lets the Software Talk
Until the Pixel 6a, Google continued using the IMX 363 sensor from Sony that we first saw on the Pixel 3 back in 2018. Though the camera lens remained unchanged, each new phone debuted as a better shooter, thanks to Google’s software magic.
The Pixel 7a broke the streak last year by introducing a new set of cameras: Sony’s IMX787 as the primary lens and IMX712 as the ultrawide. Equipped with the same camera setup, the upcoming Pixel 8a could potentially mark the start of another streak. The front-facing shooter would also remain unchanged, featuring the Sony IMX712 sensor.
While the camera hardware stays the same, Google could enhance it via software, something the company is known for.
Processor and the Other Specifications
The Tensor G3 SoC will power Google Pixel 8a. Compared to the Tensor G2, it boasts significant improvements. The CPU cores are improved, resulting in faster processing speeds, and the new GPU promises better gaming performance. The SoC currently powers the Pixel 8 lineup and will undergo some cost-cutting to make its way to the cheaper 8a, similar to what Google did with the Tensor G2 in the Pixel 7a.
The major difference will be in the chipsets’ packaging. The Tensor G3 in the Pixel 8a would use a cheaper IPoP (Integrated Package on Package), while the current Pixel 8 series uses FOPLP (Fan-Out Panel Level Packaging). Samsung says that the former is thicker and hotter.
Regardless, it will still be a significant upgrade from the Pixel 7a, as the difference wouldn’t be huge. Another recent leak suggested the Pixel 8a will have a bigger battery capacity. Moreover, it will come in two memory options: 128GB and 256GB. To learn more about the phone, we’ll have to wait for its launch or for other leaks to appear.
Launch And Availability
Considering Google’s previous timeline, the Pixel 8a could be unveiled in May this year. The Pixel 7a and the Pixel 6a were made official during the same time of the year. This time, the Pixel 8a could expand its presence to a few more countries, including the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Slovenia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary, Latvia, and Lithuania.
The folks at Android Authority also found electronic warranty labels for these regions, hinting that the phone could mark its presence there.
The Pixel 8a is allegedly costlier than the Pixel 7a and could be priced at around $620. The Pixel 7a, in comparison, was launched for $499. We’re just a few months away from the launch and will learn more about the phone as we inch closer.
That said, Google devices are currently available for a discounted price. The Pixel 7a, for instance, is available for just $374. Visit this link to learn more about the sale pricing.
