Google Pixel 8a Officially Launched at 52,999 INR ($499)

The Google Pixel 8a is finally official, following weeks of leaks (not surprising because it is Google). We were expecting Google to launch the Pixel 8a at the Google I/O Event on May 14.

The mid-range phone packs Google’s latest Tensor G3 chip and boasts several improvements over its predecessor, Pixel 7a. Here’s everything about the new Google Pixel 8a.

Google Pixel 8a Specifications

It is powered by Google’s own Tensor G3 chip – a step up from Pixel 7a’s Tensor G2. The design remains familiar, but the 6.1-inch display gets a refresh rate bump to 120Hz for smoother visuals and increases brightness to 2,000 nits in peak mode.

While the design and camera hardware (a stabilized 64-megapixel main sensor) see no change from the Pixel 7a, the Pixel 8a boasts a slight battery increase to 4,492mAh and supports wireless charging.

It still features a dual camera setup for the rear with a 64MP main camera and a 13MP secondary camera. For the front, it has a 13MP camera.

It also inherits the impressive seven years of software support that Google offers on its Pixel 8 series, a major perk in the mid-range segment.

Also Read: Apple launches iPad Air, iPad Pro and M4 chip

Google Pixel 8a focuses on AI features

The Pixel 8a gets Google’s focus on AI with features like Best Take, Magic Editor, and Audio Magic Eraser, functionalities that debuted on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Google’s generative AI photo and video editing capabilities are also on board, allowing users to create impressive edits.

Super Res Zoom allows for zooming in up to 8x, and other functionalities like Magic Eraser, Night Sight, Photo Unblur, and Real Tone are also included.

The Pixel 8a also gets the built-in AI assistant Gemini for various tasks and Circle to Search for info lookups directly from any app. Additionally, Pixel Call Assist features are on board for a smarter calling experience.

Availability and Price of Pixel 8a

Pixel 8a is now available in two new A-series colours: Aloe (a limited-edition colour!) and Bay. The other two options include the neutral colour options: Obsidian or Porcelain.

The Pixel 8a starts at ₹52,999 ($499) for the base 128GB/8GB model. You can pre-order the phone now and it will be available on May 14.

Google Pixel 8a will face competition from OnePlus 12R which is available for a similar price and features equally impressive specifications. Google Pixel 8a also needs to fight with Samsung Galaxy A55. Although it has a weaker processor, it shines in the display, competitive price and storage/memory capacity.

Google Pixel 8a is a solid mid-range phone and it will be interesting to see how it competes with these phones in the mid-range segment.