Google Pixel 8a hands-on: Flagship AI and a 120Hz OLED screen for $499

Engadget
7 May 202404:56

TLDRGoogle has introduced the Pixel 8a, a mid-range smartphone with flagship features at an affordable price of $499. The device sports a Tensor G3 chip and a 120Hz OLED screen, an upgrade from the 90Hz panel of its predecessor. The design is similar to the Pixel 8, but with thicker bezels. The phone is made from recycled plastic with a matte finish and offers water resistance with an IP67 rating. The battery is slightly smaller at 4492mAh, yet Google claims improved longevity due to power efficiency enhancements. The Pixel 8a comes in new colors, including Bay Porcelain and Obsidian, with the latter being the only variant offering 256GB of storage. It also provides 7 years of software and security updates, a significant increase from previous models. The camera setup remains the same, utilizing a 64MP and 13MP sensor for the main and ultrawide cameras, respectively. The device is powered by the Tensor G3 chip, enabling support for advanced AI features introduced with the Pixel 8. However, it lacks Pro Camera controls, faster wireless charging speeds, and a dedicated zoom lens found in the Pixel 8 Pro. Despite these omissions, the Pixel 8a delivers excellent value, offering 90-95% of the top-tier Pixel 8's capabilities at a more accessible price point. The Pixel 7A will continue to be available at a reduced price of $349. The Pixel 8a goes live today, with official sales starting on May 14th.

Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Google Pixel 8a is priced at $499, offering flagship AI features and a 120Hz OLED screen.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ It comes with a Tensor G3 chip and a 120Hz OLED screen, an upgrade from the 90Hz panel on the Pixel 7A.
  • ๐Ÿ“ The display is slightly smaller at 6.1 inches compared to the Pixel 8's 6.2 inches.
  • ๐Ÿ“ Thicker bezels on the Pixel 8a compared to the regular Pixel 8.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ The phone's back is made from recycled plastic with a matte finish, mimicking the texture of cashmere.
  • ๐Ÿ’ง It is water-resistant with an IP67 rating, slightly lower than the Pixel 8's IP68.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ The battery is smaller at 4492mAh but offers better longevity due to power efficiency improvements.
  • ๐Ÿ’ฟ Storage options include a 128GB base model and a new 256GB variant.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ It will receive 7 years of software and security updates, a significant increase from the Pixel 7A's 3 years of Android patches and 5 years of security updates.
  • ๐Ÿ“ธ The camera setup remains the same, using a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide sensor.
  • ๐Ÿ” Features AI capabilities like Best Shot, Audio Magic Eraser, and Live Translate, with unlimited uses for Pixel 8 and 8A users.
  • ๐Ÿ“… Official sales begin on May 14th, following a live presentation.

Q & A

  • What is the price of the new Google Pixel 8a?

    -The price of the new Google Pixel 8a is $499.

  • What chip does the Google Pixel 8a use?

    -The Google Pixel 8a uses a Tensor G3 chip.

  • What is the refresh rate of the Pixel 8a's OLED screen?

    -The Pixel 8a features a 120Hz OLED screen.

  • How does the Pixel 8a's display size compare to the Pixel 8's?

    -The Pixel 8a has a slightly smaller display at 6.1 inches, compared to the Pixel 8's 6.2 inches.

  • What is the material covering the Pixel 8a's display?

    -The Pixel 8a's display is covered with Gorilla Glass, although the specific version is not specified.

  • What is the texture of the Pixel 8a's back cover made to mimic?

    -The back of the Pixel 8a is made from recycled plastic with a matte finish that is supposed to mimic the texture of cashmere.

  • What is the IP rating for water resistance on the Pixel 8a?

    -The Pixel 8a has an IP67 rating for water resistance.

  • What is the battery capacity of the Pixel 8a?

    -The Pixel 8a has a battery capacity of 4492 milliamp hours.

  • How many years of software and security updates does the Pixel 8a offer?

    -The Pixel 8a offers 7 years of software and security updates.

  • What new colors are available for the Pixel 8a?

    -The Pixel 8a is available in Bay porcelain, obsidian, and a new aloe hue color.

  • What AI features does the Pixel 8a support?

    -The Pixel 8a supports AI features such as Best Shot, Audio Magic Eraser, Circle to Search, Live Translate, and more.

  • What are some features that are not available on the Pixel 8a compared to the flagship Pixel models?

    -The Pixel 8a lacks Pro Camera controls, has not upgraded wireless charging speeds (limited to 7.5 Watts), and does not have a dedicated zoom lens.

  • When does the official sale of the Pixel 8a begin?

    -The official sales of the Pixel 8a begin on May 14th.

Outlines

00:00

๐Ÿ“ฑ Google Pixel AA: Mid-Range Marvel

Google has unveiled its new Pixel AA, a mid-range smartphone that offers a balance of features and affordability. The device shares a similar design with the Pixel 8 but comes with a slightly smaller 6.1-inch 120Hz OLED display. It is equipped with a Tensor G3 chip and is made with recycled plastic, featuring a matte finish. The Pixel AA has an IP67 water resistance rating and a 4,492mAh battery, which is smaller than the Pixel 8 but promises better longevity due to power efficiency improvements. A notable upgrade is the availability of a 256GB storage variant, a first for the A series. The Pixel AA also receives 7 years of software and security updates, surpassing the previous 3 years of Android patches and 5 years of security updates. The phone comes in refreshed colors, including Bay Porcelain, Obsidian, and a new Aloe Hue. The camera setup remains the same as the Pixel 8 A, with a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide sensor, and supports AI features introduced with the Pixel 8. However, it lacks Pro Camera controls and wireless charging speeds are capped at 7.5W. Despite these omissions, the Pixel AA offers excellent value at $499, making it a strong contender in the mid-range market.

Mindmap

Keywords

๐Ÿ’กGoogle Pixel 8a

Google Pixel 8a is the subject of the video, which is a new smartphone model from Google. It represents the latest addition to Google's Pixel series, known for its AI capabilities and quality camera features. In the video, it is highlighted as an affordable yet feature-rich device, offering a flagship experience at a lower price point.

๐Ÿ’กFlagship AI

Flagship AI refers to the advanced artificial intelligence features that are typically found in high-end smartphones. In the context of the Google Pixel 8a, it implies that the phone comes with Google's latest AI enhancements, which include image processing, voice recognition, and other smart functionalities that are designed to improve the user experience.

๐Ÿ’ก120Hz OLED screen

A 120Hz OLED screen is a display technology that offers a refresh rate of 120 times per second, which is twice as fast as the standard 60Hz screens. This high refresh rate results in smoother motion and better visuals, especially for gaming and video playback. The OLED part stands for Organic Light-Emitting Diode, which is a type of display that offers better contrast and energy efficiency compared to traditional LCD screens.

๐Ÿ’กPrice tag

The price tag of $499 mentioned in the video refers to the cost of the Google Pixel 8a. It is a key selling point as it positions the phone as an affordable option without compromising on quality or features, making it accessible to a wider range of consumers.

๐Ÿ’กTenser G3 chip

The Tenser G3 chip is the processor that powers the Google Pixel 8a. It is a critical component that determines the phone's performance capabilities, including speed, responsiveness, and ability to handle complex tasks or applications. The mention of this chip in the video suggests that the Pixel 8a is equipped with a high-quality, efficient processor.

๐Ÿ’กGorilla Glass

Gorilla Glass is a brand of durable and scratch-resistant glass that is often used for the displays and screens of electronic devices. In the context of the video, it is mentioned that the Pixel 8a's display is covered with this material, indicating that the phone's screen is designed to be robust and resistant to damage.

๐Ÿ’กRecycled plastic

Recycled plastic refers to the material used for the back of the Google Pixel 8a, which is made from recycled materials. This choice reflects Google's commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness, as using recycled plastic can reduce the environmental impact of the device's production.

๐Ÿ’กIP67 rating

The IP67 rating mentioned in the video is an international standard that indicates the level of protection a device has against dust and water. An IP67 rating means the Pixel 8a is dust-tight and can withstand being submerged in water at a depth of up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, which is a desirable feature for durability and peace of mind.

๐Ÿ’กBattery life

Battery life is a measure of how long a device can operate before needing to be recharged. In the video, it is stated that despite having a slightly smaller battery (4,492 milliamp hours) compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 8a should offer better longevity due to power efficiency improvements. This is an important aspect for users who prioritize the amount of time a device can be used between charges.

๐Ÿ’กSoftware and security updates

Software and security updates are essential for maintaining the performance and safety of a device. The video highlights that the Pixel 8a will receive 7 years of these updates, which is a significant commitment from Google and a major selling point for the device, ensuring it remains up-to-date and secure for a long period.

๐Ÿ’กColor variants

Color variants refer to the different color options available for the Google Pixel 8a. The video mentions Bay porcelain, obsidian, and a new aloe hue, indicating that consumers will have a choice of colors to suit their personal preferences. The availability of a 256GB storage option specifically for the obsidian color further suggests a premium offering within the range.

Highlights

Google Pixel 8a is priced at $499, offering flagship AI features and a 120Hz OLED screen.

The Pixel 8a features a Tensor G3 chip and a 120Hz OLED display, an upgrade from the 90Hz panel on the previous model.

The display size is 6.1 inches, slightly smaller than the Pixel 8's 6.2 inches.

The Pixel 8a has thicker bezels compared to the standard Pixel 8.

The phone's display is covered with durable Gorilla Glass, though the specific version is not disclosed.

The back of the Pixel 8a is made from recycled plastic with a matte finish that mimics the texture of cashmere.

The Pixel 8a retains its water resistance with an IP67 rating.

The battery capacity is 4492mAh, slightly smaller than the Pixel 8, but with improved power efficiency for better longevity.

For 2024, the Pixel 8a introduces a 256GB storage variant in addition to the base 128GB model.

The Pixel 8a will receive 7 years of software and security updates, a significant increase from previous models.

New color options for the Pixel 8a include Bay Porcelain, Obsidian, and a vibrant Aloe Hue.

The photography capabilities remain unchanged, utilizing the same 64-megapixel and 13-megapixel sensors as the Pixel 7A.

Powered by the Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8a supports advanced AI features introduced with the Pixel 8.

The Pixel 8a does not have Pro Camera controls, lacking manual settings for shutter speed, ISO, and white balance.

Wireless charging on the Pixel 8a is limited to 7.5W, compared to 18W on premium models.

The Pixel 8a does not include a dedicated zoom lens, unlike the Pixel 8 Pro.

The Pixel 8a offers 90-95% of the features of Google's top-tier phones at a more affordable price point.

The Pixel 7A will remain on sale at a reduced price of $349, but supplies may be limited.

The Pixel 8a is expected to be a strong contender in the mid-range Android phone market.

Official sales for the Pixel 8a begin on May 14th, 2024.

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