This week, alongside Apple and Sonos, Google stepped into the spotlight with the official announcement of the Pixel 8A. Confirming weeks of speculation, Google unveiled the upcoming handset a week ahead of Google I/O 2024. Scheduled for launch on May 14th, the phone is available for pre-order as an unlocked model from Amazon, Best Buy, and the Google Store, starting at $499 with a $100 gift card.
As anticipated, the Pixel 8A targets the midrange market segment. Its predecessor, the Pixel 7A, earned accolades as our favorite Android phone under $500, thanks to features like its 64MP main camera and wireless charging — a rarity in its price range. The Pixel 8A builds upon this foundation with Google’s latest processor and minor hardware enhancements, alongside an unprecedented seven years of software support for a midrange device.
The Pixel 8A retains the 64MP camera, 8GB of RAM, and an IP67 rating, but now boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness on its 6.1-inch display. It also introduces the same generative AI photo and video features seen on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro — including Magic Editor and Best Take — potentially reshaping the landscape of smartphone photography.
With its seven-year software support, powerful Tensor G3 processor, 120Hz display, and innovative AI features, Google’s latest midrange offering aims to make a significant impact in the smartphone market.
