Google officially unveils Pixel 9a: new camera, bigger battery

Google has officially introduced the Pixel 9a, featuring an updated design, improved specs, and a starting price of $500—matching its predecessor.

The Pixel 9a ditches Google's signature protruding horizontal camera bar in favor of a flat oval module with a separate flash.

• The display has grown from 6.1 to 6.3 inches, with peak brightness increasing from 2,000 to 2,700 nits.
• The refresh rate remains at 120Hz, with a 1080p resolution.

Under the hood, the phone is powered by the Tensor G4 chip—the same processor found in the premium Pixel 9 series. RAM remains at 8GB, with storage options of 128GB or 256GB.

The main camera is entirely new: a 48MP sensor with an improved ultrawide 13MP module. A new macro mode has also been introduced, utilizing the main lens for close-up shots.

The Pixel 9a now boasts an IP68 water and dust resistance rating (an upgrade from IP67) and a larger 5,100mAh battery, up from 4,492mAh in the Pixel 8a. It supports 23W wired charging and wireless charging.

Pricing for the new model:

• 128GB: $499
• 256GB: $599

Google has also confirmed seven years of software and security updates for the Pixel 9a. Sales begin in April, though an exact release date has not yet been announced.