Google Releases Pixel 9a, Combining Powerful AI and Affordability

Google has officially launched the Pixel 9a, its latest A-series smartphone, now available in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. starting April 10. With a starting price of $499, the Pixel 9a integrates many of the premium features found in Google’s flagship Pixel 9 lineup while introducing a sleek redesign, upgraded camera, and cutting-edge AI capabilities.

Pixel 9a is powered by the Google Tensor G4, the company’s fastest and most efficient chip yet. According to Google, the new phone “comes with everything you expect from our Pixel 9 series,” and is equipped with Gemini, Google’s AI-powered assistant.

Fresh Look and Brighter Display

The Pixel 9a features a revamped design with a 6.3-inch Actua display that boasts a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate and peak brightness of 2700 nits. This makes it the brightest display ever on an A-series Pixel. The phone is available in four color options: Obsidian, Porcelain, Peony, and a new Iris colorway.

Camera and AI Photography Tools

At under $500, Google claims the Pixel 9a delivers “the best camera” in its price range. The dual rear camera system includes a 48MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide lens. For the first time on an A-series Pixel, Macro Focus is included, allowing users to capture fine details in close-up shots.

The Pixel 9a is packed with AI-driven photography tools:

• Add Me, which merges two group photos into one so everyone, including the photographer, makes it into the picture.
• Best Take, which creates an ideal group photo by blending facial expressions from multiple shots.
• Magic Editor with Auto Frame, which suggests optimal crops and allows users to expand and reimagine photos with prompts like changing the season.
• Additional features include Magic Eraser, Audio Magic Eraser, Night Sight, Astrophotography, and Panorama with Night Sight.

Performance and Durability

Google says Pixel 9a offers the “best battery life of any Pixel available today,” with over 30 hours of standard use and up to 100 hours on Extreme Battery Saver. The phone is rated IP68 for dust and water resistance and includes seven years of OS updates, security updates, and Pixel Drops.

Gemini Integration and AI Assistance

As the only sub-$500 smartphone to include Gemini Nano, Pixel 9a brings powerful on-device AI to everyday tasks. Gemini integrates with apps like Google Maps, Calendar, and YouTube, and supports Gemini Live for voice-based interaction. According to Google, Gemini Live will soon offer video- and screen-sharing, allowing users to point their camera at objects or share their screen during AI-assisted conversations.

Other AI-powered tools include Circle to Search, Pixel Studio, and a suite of Call Assist features such as Hold For Me, Direct My Call, and Call Screen.

Security and Family Features

Pixel 9a includes the same top-rated security features as the Pixel 9 Pro, including VPN by Google, Car Crash Detection, Theft Protection, and Find My Device live location sharing. Designed with families in mind, Pixel 9a offers an enhanced onboarding experience for kids and tools like Google Family Link, School Time, and the newly launched Google Wallet for kids.

Google Wallet for kids is now available in the U.S., U.K., Australia, Spain, and Poland. It allows children to make payments and manage passes under parental supervision, with full control via Family Link.

The Pixel 9a is now available for purchase through the Google Store and retail partners.

Image: Google