Google Pixel 8a

The Google Pixel 8a is a mid-range smartphone that brings many of the premium features from Google's flagship devices into a more affordable package. Released in May 2024, it offers a compelling combination of performance, camera capabilities, and long-term software support.

Design and Display

The Pixel 8a features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. The screen supports a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and responsiveness. The device has a compact and ergonomic design, with a matte plastic back and aluminum frame, providing durability and a comfortable grip. It is available in several colors, including Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Aloe.

Performance and Software

Powered by Google's Tensor G3 chipset and 8GB of RAM, the Pixel 8a handles multitasking and demanding applications efficiently. It runs on Android 14 out of the box and is eligible for up to seven years of software updates, including major Android versions and security patches, ensuring longevity and access to the latest features.

Camera System

The Pixel 8a boasts a dual-camera setup on the rear, consisting of a 64MP main sensor with optical image stabilization and a 13MP ultra-wide lens. This combination allows for high-quality photos in various lighting conditions. The front-facing camera is a 13MP sensor, suitable for selfies and video calls. Google's advanced computational photography features, such as Magic Eraser and Best Take, enhance the photography experience.

Battery and Charging

Equipped with a 4,492mAh battery, the Pixel 8a provides all-day battery life under typical usage. It supports 18W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging, allowing for convenient power top-ups.

Additional Features

The Pixel 8a includes an under-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking, stereo speakers for immersive audio, and an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. Connectivity options encompass 5G support, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC for contactless payments.

Dimensions & Weight:

Dimensions: 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm (5.99 x 2.86 x 0.35 in)

Weight: 188 g (6.63 oz)

Build:

Front: Corning Gorilla Glass 3

Frame: Aluminum

Back: Matte composite plastic

IP67 dust and water resistance (up to 1m for 30 min)

Display:

Type: OLED, HDR, 120Hz refresh rate

Size: 6.1 inches, (~81.6% screen-to-body ratio)

Resolution: 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~430 ppi density)

Peak Brightness: Up to 2000 nits

Features: Always-on display

Platform:

Operating System: Android 14, upgradable to Android 15, with up to 7 years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates

Chipset: Google Tensor G3 (4 nm)

CPU: Nona-core (1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X3 & 4x2.45 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4x2.15 GHz Cortex-A510)

GPU: Immortalis-G715s MC10

Memory & Storage:

RAM: 8GB LPDDR5x

Internal Storage: 128GB

Card Slot: No

Main Camera (Dual):

64 MP, f/1.9, 26mm (wide), 1/1.73", 0.8µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS

13 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1.12µm

Features: Dual-LED flash, Pixel Shift, Ultra HDR, panorama, Best Take

Video: 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps, OIS

Selfie Camera:

13 MP, f/2.2, 20mm (ultrawide), 1.12µm

Features: HDR, panorama

Video: 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps

Battery:

Type: Li-Po 4492 mAh, non-removable

Charging: 18W wired (PD3.0), 7.5W wireless charging (Qi-certified)

Connectivity:

Network: GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G

SIM: Nano-SIM and eSIM

WLAN: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual/tri-band (market/region dependent)

Bluetooth: 5.3, A2DP, LE

Positioning: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, NavIC

NFC: Yes

USB: USB Type-C 3.2

Sensors:

Under-display optical fingerprint sensor

Accelerometer

Gyro

Proximity sensor

Compass

Barometer

Audio:

Stereo speakers

No 3.5mm headphone jack

Aloe

Security:

Titan M2 security chip

VPN by Google One at no extra cost

Multi-layer hardware security

7 years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates