The much anticipated, slightly more affordable Google Pixel 8 has just been announced today. Powered by the latest Google Tensor G3 chip, the new Google Pixel 8a shares much of the AI features found on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, including AI features like Gemini, Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser, and more.
Aesthetically, it refined the A-Series design with rounded edges, a matte back, and an aluminum frame. Google said the new Pixel 8a is the most durable A-Series phone yet, capable of handling slips, spills, and dust. But for sure it will not be able to beat the Oppo K12 which also suffered the wrath of the product manager’s heels on stage, live in front of the guests.
The new A-Series also has a new Actua display that is 40% brighter than the Pixel 7a. The display is an adaptive 120 Hz 6.1” FHD+ (2,400 x 1,080 pixels) display that touts up to 1,400 nits (HDR) and up to 2,000 nits (peak brightness), 1 million:1 contrast ratio, HDR support, and full 24-bit depth for 16 million colors.
The new Pixel also touts two new colors: Aloe, which is a limited-edition color, and Bay – in addition to the usual Obsidian and Porcelain colorways.
The highlight of the device is, of course, the built-in AI assistant powered by Google Gemini. It lets you type, talk, and add images for all kinds of help on the go. Do all sorts of things including brainstorming ideas, writing a thank you note, summarizing your recent emails, quickly sifting through your inbox, or even planning your next vacation.
The much talked about Circle to Search is also on Pixel 8a, along with AI-powered Pixel Call Assist features, like Call Screen, Direct My Call, Hold for Me, Clear Calling, and more. Audio Emoji, which is basically the sound version of emojis, is available to Pixel 8a users too but why do we need an audio version of emojis? Well, I do not know. Does anyone even use it?
And there are the usual Pixel features like Family Link, certified Titan M2 security chip, built-in VPN, and 7 years of software support, including security updates and Android OS upgrades.
Other spec-sheet details include 128/256 GB UFS 3.1 storage, 8 GB LPDDR5X RAM, a dual camera setup comprising a 64 MP Quad PD wide camera and a 13 MP ultrawide camera, a 13 MP front-facing with a large FoV, Super Res Zoom up to 8x, Real Tone, fingerprint Unlock with under-display fingerprint sensor, face unlock, USB-C (3.2), dual SIM, stereo speakers, dual mics, Wi-Fi 6E, tri-band, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 3 cover glass, IP67-rated for dust and water resistance, and a 4,492 mAh battery with support for fast charging and Qi wireless charging.
The new Google Pixel 8a is available to order now with a starting price of US$499.
Images: Google.
