Pixel 9a: Google’s new A-series phone offers AI capabilities and value

Investing.com -- Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL) is set to release the Pixel 9a, the latest addition to its A-series phones. The new model, powered by Google’s fastest and most efficient chip, the Google Tensor G4, boasts a sleek redesign, an upgraded main camera, and built-in Gemini AI. Priced at $499, the Pixel 9a offers a range of features and capabilities that provide excellent value.

The Pixel 9a sports a fresh design with a flat profile, rounded edges, and an upgraded 6.3-inch Actua display, making it the brightest A-series display to date. The display is 35% brighter than the Pixel 8a, with a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate for a vibrant viewing experience. The phone is available in two new colors, Peony and Iris, as well as Porcelain and Obsidian.

The Pixel 9a also features a best-in-class camera for phones under $500, allowing users to capture stunning photos and videos. The upgraded dual rear camera system includes a 13MP ultrawide camera and a 48MP main camera. The phone also introduces Macro (BCBA:BMAm) Focus to the A-series, enabling detailed close-up shots. The Pixel 9a also comes with AI-powered photography features like Add Me, Best Take, Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, Audio Magic Eraser, Night Sight, Astrophotography, and the new Panorama with Night Sight.

The Pixel 9a has a battery life of over 30 hours, and over 100 hours with Extreme Battery Saver, making it the Pixel with the longest battery life currently available. The phone also comes with seven years of OS updates, security updates, and Pixel Drops. It has an upgraded IP68 water and dust resistance, making it the most durable A-series phone yet.

The Pixel 9a is the only smartphone line under $500 to feature the Gemini Nano. With Gemini built-in, the phone’s AI assistant can help with a range of tasks and works with Google apps like Maps, Calendar, and YouTube. The phone also includes access to Gemini Live, which enables voice interaction with Gemini, and soon, Gemini Advanced subscribers will have video- and screen-sharing capabilities with Gemini Live.

The Pixel 9a also includes features like Circle to Search, Pixel Studio, and Call Assist features. The phone has the same highest-rated security features as the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, and includes a built-in VPN by Google at no extra cost. Users can also use Find My Device to share their live location with friends and family.

The Pixel 9a also offers features aimed at young users. Google Family Link allows parents and guardians to manage a child’s account and devices. The School Time feature reduces distractions by limiting phone functionality and silencing notifications during school hours. Google Wallet for kids, which allows safer, more convenient payments in stores with Google Pay, is also rolling out on the Pixel 9a in the U.S., U.K., Australia, Spain, and Poland.

The Pixel 9a, priced at $499, will be available at the Google Store and through retail partners starting in April.

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