Google today announced that its annual Google I/O developer conference will kick off on May 14 (May 15 AEST), and we're pretty confident a new Pixel phone is on the cards. For the last few years, Google has used I/O as a platform for launching the latest A-series Pixel. This year, we're expecting the Pixel 8a.
Precedent suggests the Pixel 8a will be powered by the same Tensor G3 processor found in the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, in the same way the Pixel 7a is powered by the same processor as the Pixel 7 family. As such, it wouldn't be surprising to see Google over some of the Pixel 8's new AI features to the Pixel 8a. Best Take, which lets you combine faces from multiple photos to ensure everyone is looking their best, seems like a likely candidate.
Alleged renders of the Pixel 8a show it looking pretty similar to the standard Pixel 8. The display will likely be 6.1-inch however, which is slightly smaller than the Pixel 8's 6.2-inch display. The phones should still be roughly similar in size, however, as A-series Pixels have typically had more bezel around the screen. The overall design also looks a bit curvier than the Pixel 7a.
The Pixel 7a cost $749 at launch last year. We wouldn't be surprised if the Pixel 8a had a similar asking price.
If Google does end up launching the Pixel 8a in May, Samsung's new Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55 will be two of its biggest competitors in the market. Both could end up being cheaper, with the pair retailing for $549 and $699, respectively. Google's mid-tier phones have historically offered more reliable cameras than Samsung's comparatively priced rivals, however.
Google I/O should also herald news about Android 15.
Alex Choros
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