Is The Google Pixel 8a A Worthy Upgrade?
Google’s Pixel 7a emerged as a compelling mid-range smartphone last year, packing impressive features like wireless charging and an IP67 rating. Paired with its renowned Pixel-quality imaging, the 7a offered excellent value at its price point. This year, however, Google’s Pixel 8a brings less significant upgrades, relying heavily on AI enhancements powered by its new Tensor G3 processor. The question on everyone’s mind: is the Pixel 8a a real upgrade worth the investment?
While the Pixel 8a retains its familiar design aesthetic with a new Bay color option, its most significant change comes in the form of storage. Indian consumers will finally have the option of choosing between the 128GB and expanded 256GB storage options. However, this upgrade, while welcome, needs to be considered carefully. The top-tier OnePlus 12, offering a far superior overall package, is priced at Rs. 64,999, putting the Pixel 8a’s pricing firmly in the premium phone territory, significantly closer to the Pixel 8 itself. So, what exactly do you get with the new Pixel 8a? Let’s delve deeper.
Design and Display: A Familiar Look with Subtle Tweaks
Moving past the evident storage upgrade, the Pixel 8a makes a notable statement with its refined design. The phone’s transition from sharp to rounded corners, alongside the polycarbonate back with a frosted matte finish, sets it apart from its predecessors. This finish offers a distinct tactile experience, though it’s worth mentioning that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro feature a more premium glass construction.
The Pixel 8a’s camera module sits flush with the back, merging seamlessly with the side frame, maintaining the IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. While the Pixel 7a introduced a 90Hz display, Google has further enhanced the Pixel 8a with a 120Hz refresh rate display branded as "Actua". This 6.1-inch flat screen, though slightly curved at the edges, is dominated by noticeably thick bezels, reminiscent of the iPhone XR.
Performance and AI: Does the Tensor G3 Deliver?
Underneath the hood, the Pixel 8a incorporates the expected Tensor G3 processor. While not a performance powerhouse, as demonstrated by the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, the Tensor G3 brings its own suite of AI-driven features. Magic Editor, Audio Eraser, and an enhanced Face Unlock experience are just a few of the new additions, building on the Pixel line’s AI capabilities.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that the RAM remains capped at 8GB, aligning with the Pixel 7a and even the Pixel 8, which could pose limitations for demanding users.
Cameras: A Familiar Lineup, but with AI Enhancements
The Pixel 8a sticks with the previous iteration’s camera setup. A 64-megapixel primary camera, promising SuperRes Zoom images up to 8X, is accompanied by a 13-megapixel ultrawide camera. The front-facing selfie camera remains a 13-megapixel unit.
While the cameras haven’t undergone any hardware changes, AI features play a crucial role in enhancing photography. The Tensor G3 enables improved image processing and performance, bringing sharper images, better low-light performance, and even more powerful computational photography capabilities.
Battery and Charging: Marginal Improvements
The Pixel 8a boasts a slightly larger 4,492mAh battery, an upgrade from the 4,385mAh unit in the Pixel 7a. However, the charging speeds have remained stagnant, with 18W wired and Qi-standard wireless charging.
Conclusion: A Question of Value
The Pixel 8a, despite its subtle exterior upgrades, presents a mixed bag. On the one hand, the enhanced display and the new AI features through the Tensor G3 offer a compelling user experience. On the other hand, the lack of significant hardware improvements, coupled with the increased price point, raises concerns about value.
For those who prioritize AI features and are satisfied with the Pixel 7a’s overall performance, the Pixel 8a may be a reasonable upgrade. However, buyers looking for a substantial jump in hardware capabilities might find the Pixel 8a lacking.
Ultimately, the Pixel 8a’s true worth depends on individual needs and preferences. The competition, particularly from Chinese brands like OnePlus and Xiaomi, continues to offer formidable alternatives in the premium mid-range segment. The Pixel 8a’s AI prowess might not be enough to overshadow its potential drawbacks.
