The Google Pixel 9a has arrived, sporting a redesigned look, new features, and a competitive price point. However, it faces a challenging market landscape. This new iteration ditches the Pixel 8a’s curved back for a flat rear panel and sides. Even the signature visor-style camera module is gone, with the dual cameras seamlessly integrated into the back, creating a flush surface—a unique design choice in 2025.
The back of the Google Pixel 9a in different colors.
While opinions on this departure from Google’s previous design language may vary, the Pixel 9a’s color options offer some visual flair. Standard Porcelain (white) and Obsidian (black) are joined by the vibrant Iris (purple) and Peony (red-pink). The phone boasts an IP68 dust and water resistance rating, a plastic rear, and an aluminum chassis.
Display and Performance
The Pixel 9a features a 6.3-inch Actua Display with a 1080 x 2424 pixel resolution, a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and an impressive peak brightness of 2,700 nits, surpassing the Pixel 8a. Powered by Google’s Tensor G4 processor, 8GB of RAM, and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, the phone runs Android 15. Google commits to seven years of software and security updates, along with its regular Pixel Drop updates.
The Google Pixel 9a in Obsidian and Peony.
Camera and Software Enhancements
The camera system receives a significant upgrade with a 48-megapixel main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) and 8x Super Res Zoom. A 13MP wide-angle lens complements the main camera. New to the A-Series, the Pixel 9a introduces Macro Focus mode and Timelapse for Astrophotography. Google’s AI-powered features, including Add Me, Best Take, Magic Editor, and Magic Eraser, are also present, along with Audio Magic Eraser and Macro Focus for video.
Google Gemini integration brings features like Circle to Search, the Pixel Studio image generator, and Call Assist. Gemini Live is expected to arrive on the Pixel 9a in the future. Google’s suite of services, including theft protection, car crash detection, Find My Device, and Google VPN, are also included.
The Google Pixel 9a in Obsidian and Peony.
Battery and Other Features
The Pixel 9a packs a 5,100mAh battery, promising approximately 30 hours of use on a single charge. An optical fingerprint sensor provides secure access.
Price and Availability
Priced at $499 or £499, the Pixel 9a is slated for release in early April, with the specific date yet to be confirmed. It joins the Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, all released in late 2024.
The Competitive Landscape
The Pixel 9a faces stiff competition from similarly priced rivals like the Nothing Phone 3a, Nothing Phone 3a Pro, Samsung Galaxy A56, OnePlus 13R, and Apple iPhone 16e. Time will tell if the Pixel 9a’s blend of new design, features, and Google’s software prowess can carve out a place in this crowded market.
