In an unexpected turn of events, the retail packaging of Google’s upcoming mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 8a, has surfaced online, revealing key details about its design and features. Despite being several months away from its official launch, leaks surrounding the Pixel 8a have been making waves since September 2023, and the latest revelation gives enthusiasts a sneak peek into what Google has in store.
Originating from Vietnam, a country where Google assembles its Pixel phones, the leak emerged on a Vietnam-based Pixel group on Facebook, according to reports from Google News Telegram. The leaked images showcase the retail box of the Pixel 8a, which closely resembles the packaging of the current Pixel lineup. The predominant color is black, indicating that the mid-range Pixel will launch in this classic hue. Notably, the packaging also confirms that the Pixel 8a will adopt a design reminiscent of its higher-end counterpart, the Pixel 8, characterized by its rounded edges and sleek aesthetic.
One significant detail extracted from the leaked retail box is the recommendation for a USB-PD power adapter with a power output of up to 27W. This aligns with the charging specifications of the Pixel 8. However, it’s crucial to note that this doesn’t necessarily imply that the Pixel 8a will support charging speeds of up to 27W. Previous models, such as the Pixel 7a, recommended a 30W adapter but could only utilize up to 18W due to thermal constraints. It remains to be seen if the Pixel 8a follows a similar pattern.
Despite the Pixel 8a’s launch being a few months away, various details about the device have already surfaced. It is expected to feature more compact dimensions, measuring 152.1 x 72.6 x 8.9mm, compared to the Pixel 7a’s 152.4 x 72.9 x 9.0mm. The display size and refresh rate are speculated to remain unchanged at 6.1 inches and 90Hz, respectively. However, there are rumors of an ‘Actua’ panel with improved brightness levels.
Internally, the Pixel 8a is anticipated to house Google’s Tensor G3 SoC, possibly underclocked or with inferior packaging for cost considerations. Despite these adjustments, the efficiency improvements of the chip are expected to enhance the Pixel 8a’s overall performance, offering prolonged battery life and cooler operation compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 7a.
Traditionally, Google’s mid-range Pixel phones have been launched in the summer, with May being a likely month for the Pixel 8a’s debut, coinciding with Google’s I/O 2024 event. However, given the variability in previous launch schedules, slight adjustments may occur. Google has positioned the ‘a’ series as an affordable gateway into the Pixel ecosystem, emphasizing that it is not aiming to produce low-cost Pixel phones. The Pixel 8a is poised to continue this trend, raising the bar for budget Android phones with its expected upgrades and improvements.
As anticipation grows, Google enthusiasts eagerly await further official announcements and a closer look at what the Pixel 8a has to offer.