We only recently saw Google’s unusual Pixel launch, which brought more devices than usual, and already information is starting to emerge about what’s next.
Google’s Pixel 9 series is now here, introducing not only the standard Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, but also the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which replaced the first Pixel Fold.
However, anticipation is now building for the next mid-range phone in the lineup, the Pixel 9a, which will replace the Pixel 8a.
While official details are yet to be confirmed, various recent leaks, renders, and speculation offer a promising glimpse into what we can expect from this phone.
Here’s everything we know so far about its release date, price, and features.
When will the Google Pixel 9a be released?
The Google Pixel 9a is expected to be officially revealed at Google I/O in May 2025following the tradition of previous “a” series Pixel launches.
As a reminder, here are the launch dates for previous models:
However, with Google’s recent trend of releasing hardware ahead of schedule, it’s possible that the Pixel 9a could arrive slightly ahead of schedule.
Despite this, May still seems like the most likely time for the reveal.
How much will the Google Pixel 9a cost?
While no official pricing has been confirmed, it’s likely the Pixel 9a will cost around £499/$499. We saw a price hike with the Pixel 8a, so we hope Google sticks with the next model.
This affordable price has always been a selling point of the Pixel “a” series, giving users a premium software experience and cameras without the flagship price.
To give you an idea, here are the launch prices of previous models:
- Pixel 8a – £499/$499
- Pixel 7a – £449/$499
- Pixel 6a – £399/$449
- Pixel 5a – $449 (no UK release)
- Pixel 4a 5G – £499/$499
- Pixel 4a – £349/$349
What features will the Google Pixel 9a have?
The Google Pixel 9a is shaping up to be a compelling mid-range phone, equipped with many of the core features of the flagship Pixel 9 series, but at a lower price.
Here’s a look at what the Pixel 9a could offer, based on leaks and rumors.
Design and build
According to recently shared CAD renders (via Android Headlines), one of the Pixel 9a’s most notable changes is the design, particularly the camera setup.
The camera bar, which is a feature of recent Pixel devices, could be more subtle on the 9a, almost flush with the back of the phone. This is reminiscent of older LG phones like the V60 ThinQ.
Android Headlines also reports that the Pixel 9a could come in four colors: Porcelain, Obsidian, Peony, and Iris.
Porcelain and Obsidian will likely be classic white and black options, while Peony is a pink shade available on the standard Pixel 9 (although it may look different under the same name), and Iris will be a new purple shade bluish.
The phone is also expected to be slightly larger than its predecessor, with dimensions of 154mm tall, 73mm wide, and an 8.5mm thinner profile.
Screen and speakers
The Pixel 9a is expected to feature a 6.1-inch display, similar to its predecessor, likely using an OLED panel for vivid colors and deep blacks. The bezel will probably be visible but expected at this price point.
The front of the device may have a punch-hole camera in the center, maintaining a clean look.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Stereo speakers will likely remain a feature, providing decent sound quality for media consumption, although audiophiles may want to use Bluetooth for higher quality sound.
Performance
Likely powered by the Tensor G4 chipset, the Pixel 9a could inherit much of the performance horsepower of the flagship Pixel 9 series.
This could be paired with 8GB of RAM and probably 128GB of storage as the base model, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient performance in apps, games, and daily use.
Chris Martin / Foundry
There are rumors that this could be one of the last Pixel devices using a Samsung-designed processor, as future models could switch to a Google-customized processor from TSMC.
Cameras
The phone is expected to feature a dual camera setup, with a wide and ultra-wide lens, similar to the flagship Pixel 9.
As mentioned, the camera bar will be replaced this time with a more subtle pill-shaped module, making the device more elegant.
Chris Martin / Foundry
According to Android Headlines, the main sensor will go from 64Mp to 48Mp, likely the same sensor used in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
While the ultrawide and front cameras may stay at 13MP, the larger megapixels of the main sensor promise better photo quality. However, the Pixel 9a would not have a telephoto lens or the improved ultra-wide and front-facing cameras of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro.
Additionally, the Pixel 9a is expected to feature Google’s AI ‘Add Me’ feature, first seen in the Pixel 9 series, allowing users to insert themselves into group photos without the need for someone to another to take the photo.
As a reminder, the standard Pixel 9 includes a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultra-wide camera, and a 10.5MP selfie camera.
Battery and charging
The Pixel 9a’s battery life should be improved compared to its predecessor. The Pixel 8a had a 4,492 mAh battery and the Pixel 9a could see a slight increase in capacity.
Despite its slimmer profile, the optimized performance of the Tensor G4 chip and Android 15’s software improvements should help the device last a full day of moderate use.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Charging is expected to be wired only, with 18W fast charging, which is the norm for mid-range phones in this category.
Software
The Pixel 9a will likely launch with Android 15 out of the box, which began rolling out in October.
Like the rest of the Pixel family, the 9a is expected to benefit from seven years of market-leading software updates, ensuring longevity and consistent performance well into the future.
Chris Martin / Foundry
This is everything we currently know about the Pixel 9a which will face the Samsung Galaxy A56. We will update this article when there is more news.
In the meantime, be sure to check out our recent Pixel 9 Pro review or go back in time and learn more about the entire history of Google Pixel phones.
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