The Google Pixel 9a Is the First Pixel I've Wanted in Years

Google's Pixel 9a: A Refreshing Departure from the Thin Phone Race

While Apple and Samsung prioritize thinness, Google's Pixel 9a takes a different approach, prioritizing features users have long desired.

Goodbye, Camera Bump

Modern phones often feature a camera bump—a protrusion housing the camera hardware. This compromises the phone's flatness and stability when placed on a surface. The Pixel 9a eliminates this bump, resulting in a flush camera design similar to tablets. Despite this, camera capabilities are expected to rival the Pixel 8a.

A Massive Battery

Many users prefer a larger battery over an ultra-thin design. The Pixel 9a delivers on this preference, boasting the largest battery ever included in a Pixel phone. This larger battery, achieved by slightly increasing the phone's thickness, outperforms the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Galaxy S25 Ultra, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. While not the largest phone battery on the market (some competitors like the OnePlus 13R offer 6,000mAh), it's a significant improvement.

Near Flagship Build Quality

The Pixel A series is known for cost-cutting measures, often using plastic instead of metal and glass. The Pixel 9a mitigates this by using a metal frame and a plastic back, offering a more premium feel while potentially improving durability. While larger bezels remain, the display quality is largely comparable to higher-end models.

Same CPU and Software

Contrary to expectations, the Pixel 9a utilizes the same Tensor G4 chip as the Pixel 9 Pro. This offers competitive performance at its $500 price point. It also features the same stock Android experience with Google apps, although some features like Pixel Screenshots and faster wireless charging are absent, and it only has 8GB of RAM.

A Minimalist Design

The Pixel 9a addresses a common criticism of Pixel phones: the camera visor. The minimalist design, lacking the prominent visor, appeals to those who prefer a flatter, less visually busy phone.

The Verdict

While the Pixel 9a's features are compelling, the reviewer's preference for foldables, particularly Samsung's, prevents a purchase. The lack of a foldable design, stylus, preferred apps, and desktop mode (although Google's investment in Android desktop mode may change this) are deciding factors.

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