A hands-on video of the forthcoming Pixel 9a has appeared online, showcasing a device with a more budget-friendly design rather than a premium one. Although the video has been taken down, it can still be seen in a Threads post by Shane Craig.
The leaked video displays the back of the Pixel 9a in the Obsidian color. The device exhibits a design that prioritizes cost-effectiveness over luxury, consistent with earlier leaks of Pixel 9a renders. The Pixel 9a sports a plastic build reminiscent of the 'Nokia Lumia' phones, providing a comfortable grip.
The most noticeable change in the Pixel 9a's design is the camera setup. The device features a more pronounced and integrated camera module, almost flush with the phone body. A subtle ring surrounds the two cameras, protruding slightly. This shift in design direction towards a more budget-friendly approach adds a different aesthetic to the device.
Not mentioned in Shane Craig's post is whether this is an actual Pixel 9a or a mockup. Dummy phones are non-functioning replicas used by manufacturers to showcase design and form factor without revealing internal hardware or software.
With the expected announcement on March 19 approaching, there is a possibility that this is indeed the finalized Pixel 9a.
Expectations for the Pixel 9a
Pixel 9a is likely to uphold Google's tradition of offering high-end features at a relatively affordable price point. Speculations suggest the device will be powered by the Tensor G4 chip, 8GB of RAM, a 120Hz OLED display, and Google's signature Pixel software.By prioritizing cost-efficiency in the phone's design, Google aims to keep the price at a competitive $499 while maintaining performance quality. The new design direction may raise concerns about durability, but the focus on affordability is clear.
