Google’s upcoming mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 9a, has surfaced in official-looking renders, giving us the clearest look at the phone’s design and color options. Unlike its predecessors, the Pixel 9a is ditching the camera bar in favor of a pill-shaped camera cutout, marking a major design shift.

Key Points

Pixel 9a to drop the signature camera bar for a pill-shaped cutout.

Bottom bezel appears slimmer compared to the Pixel 8a.

Four color options: Peony (Pink), Iris (Purple), Obsidian (Black), and Porcelain (White).

Expected to feature a Tensor G4 chipset, 48MP main camera, and 5,100mAh battery.

Price could start at $499 for the 128GB model, $599 for 256GB.

Likely to launch on March 19, with sales beginning March 26.

Expected to arrive in India, possibly with a price tag around Rs 52,999

A Fresh Design with a More Compact Look

According to the leaked renders (androidheadlines), the Pixel 9a will feature curved edges and a flat frame, making it appear more compact. The device is expected to be available in four colors – Peony (Pink), Iris (Purple), Obsidian (Black), and Porcelain (White).

The power and volume buttons are located on the right side.

The camera module is now a pill-shaped cutout with a dual-camera setup, while the LED flash sits separately outside.

A side view of the phone suggests a nearly flat camera bump, which is different from the more pronounced bump seen on previous Pixel models.

The front panel sports a centered punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera, with noticeably thinner bezels, especially on the bottom chin, compared to the Pixel 8a.

Expected Specifications and Features

The Pixel 9a is rumored to pack significant hardware upgrades:

Display: The phone is expected to have a compact OLED screen, though exact size details are not confirmed yet.

Processor: Powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset, promising improved performance.

Cameras: A 48MP primary camera, which is a downgrade from the 64MP sensor on the Pixel 8a.

Battery: A 5,100mAh battery, an upgrade from the 4,492mAh in the previous model.

Charging: 23W wired fast charging and 7.5W wireless charging support.

RAM & Storage: Expected to offer 8GB RAM with storage options of 128GB ($499) and 256GB ($599).

Launch Timeline and Availability

The Pixel 9a is rumored to be announced on March 19, with sales starting on March 26. It will also be launched in India, where its predecessor started at Rs 52,999. Pricing for the Indian market is yet to be confirmed.

With its refreshed design, powerful chipset, and a larger battery, the Pixel 9a is shaping up to be a promising mid-range contender. More details are expected to emerge as we get closer to its launch. Stay tuned for further updates!