Google Pixel 9a: Six key upgrades over Pixel 8a

Google's all-new premium mid-range phone Pixel 9a, is slated to hit stores later this month on April 16 in India.

It comes in one storage variant (256GB) for Rs 49,999. However, the Pixel 9a will be available in four colours- purple (iris), black (obsidian), pink (peony) and white (porcelain).

Google Pixel 9: Key upgrades over Pixel 8a

Better build quality: Pixel 9a's display is protected by Corning's Gorilla Glass 3 and come with aluminium frame. The latter is made of 100 per cent recycled, but very sturdy compared to the predecessor. Also, it comes with IP68 rating, meaning it can survive a dip in the swimming pool for up to one metre (approx. five feet) close to 30 minutes. The Pixel 8a comes with IP67 rating.

Also, the Pixel 9a comes in very unique flat design, where in there is no protrusion of the camera. It is flat and flushed to the back panel. This helps the device's camera protected during accidental fall on a flat surface.

Bigger and brighter display: The Pixel 9a comes with a bigger and brighter display compared to the Pixel 8a. The former features a 6.63-inch full HD+ (1080 x 2424p) Actua P-OLED display with 83.5 per cent screen-to-body ratio and supports peak brightness up to 2,700nits. It is 35 per cent brighter than the predecessor, which comes with a 6.1-inch full HD+ OLED screen with an 81.6 per cent screen-to-body ratio and supports peak brightness up to 2,000 nits.

Pixel 9a series.

New Processor: Pixel 9a is powered by Google's propreitary Tensor G4, the same chipset we see in the premium Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL and 9 Pro Fold.

It will ensure all the generative Artificial Intellignece (gen AI) features, Gemini AI app, Gemini Live, Circle to Search, Pixel Studio apps and more to work smoothly without any lagness.

It will also power advanced computational photography tools on Pixel 9a.

Further, the Tensor G4 comes integrated with Titan M2 security chipset, which promises anti-malware and anti-phishing protection in addition to Spam protection in Google Phone and Messages app.

Further, Pixel 9a is guaranteed to get seven years of Android OS, security, and Pixel Drops updates.

Improved camera hardware: It boasts all-new dual-camera module-- main 48MP camera and a 13 MP ultrawide camera. It supports Macro Focus, a first for Pixel A series to date. Users can take sharp and detailed close up shots.

It also boasts gen AI-powered camera features, including Best Take, Magic Editor with Auto Frame capabilities and Reimagine in Magic Editor, Audio Magic Eraser, Night Sight, Astrophotography, Panorama with Night Sight and more.

Bigger cell capacity for longer battery life: The Pixel 9a houses a 5, 100 mAh Li-Po battery and can support up to 23W charging. The predecessor comes with a 4,492 mAh cell and support 18W charging speed.

The new Pixel 9a promises to deliver up to 30 hours of battery life with a single full charge.

It also supports 7.5W wireless charging as well.

Safety features: Pixel 9a boasts of Car Crash Detection, Theft Detection, and live location sharing via Find My Device.

And, with Google Family Link integration, parents can control screen time of children on Pixel 9a. It supports screen time controls, app usage insights, and School Time, which restricts phone functionality during school hours.

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