Pixel 8a: The features we’re expecting from Google’s next A-series smartphone

Finding a compact Android smartphone can be challenging, but the Pixel A series stands out. The Pixel 8A is expected to uphold this reputation with its 6.1-inch screen, making it one of the smallest mainstream phones of 2024. It is rumoured to boast a 120Hz refresh rate, an increase from 90Hz. However, the noticeable bezels at the bottom could hint at its value-oriented design.

Like the Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro, the upcoming Pixel 8A is said to be powered by the Tensor G3, the flagship in-house processor from Google. This implies that the phone's performance will closely mirror Google's flagship smartphones. Like the rest of the lineup, this device is anticipated to receive up to 7 years of software support.

The Google Pixel 8A is expected to offer nearly all the AI features available on the Pixel 8, such as Circle to Search, Best Take, Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, Magic Voice eraser, real tone, night view mode, and more. It's anticipated to ship with Android 14 pre-installed and will be one of the first phones to receive Android 15 updates in the future.

Google, known for its vibrant smartphones, is expected to introduce the Pixel 8A in fresh hues, including Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Mint. According to a leak from Evan Blass, the company may also unveil colour-coordinated cases for the Pixel 8A, enabling users to customize and accessorize their phones to suit their preferences. The phone is likely to feature a metal frame paired with either a plastic or polycarbonate back that mimics glass.

Google is stated to offer an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance on the Pixel 8A. Not just that, the display is said to have Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection. The phone will also possess an optical in-display fingerprint sensor.

The Pixel 8A, like its predecessor, might only come with a single physical SIM card slot with support for eSIM, both offering 5G connectivity. The device is also likely to support Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and NFC.

Google has been offering its Pixel A series smartphones with just 128 GB storage, and the upcoming Pixel 8A could be the first device in the series to be available in at least two storage variants - 128 GB and 256 GB. Like other Pixel smartphones, don't expect a microSD card. The phone, however, is likely to have a faster USB-C port to enable faster data transfer.

The Google Pixel 8A is expected to feature a triple camera setup, with a 64 MP primary sensor and a 13 MP ultra-wide-angle camera. The selfie camera, too, may be upgraded to a 13 MP sensor. Expect the phone to be capable of shooting up to 4K resolution videos using any of these cameras, with the camera app likely to integrate AI enhancements for improved image and video quality.

Pixel 8A might come equipped with a 4,500 mAh battery. Like its predecessor, the phone will support wired and wireless charging. According to some leaked promotional material, the Pixel 8A should deliver up to 24 hours of battery life in normal mode, and the battery can last up to 72 hours in the super battery-saver mode.

The latest leak suggests that the base model of the Pixel 8A, featuring 128 GB storage, could have an MRP of Rs 45,000 in India. With launch offers, the phone is expected to be available for around Rs 40,000. Additionally, the device is likely to be sold exclusively through Flipkart.