Product test
Google Pixel 8: the most exciting features on trial
by Michelle Brändle
Google Pixel 8a: What has changed compared to its predecessor
7.5.2024
Translation: machine translated
The new Google Pixel 8a has the same chip as the current top model, the Pixel 8 (Pro). Find out what else has changed compared to this and its predecessor, the Pixel 7a, here.
Google has unveiled its Pixel 8a mid-range model. In addition to the new AI functions and the chip, the design has also changed. The two new colour variants, blue and green, immediately catch my eye. However, when I compare the specifications with the Pixel 7a and Pixel 8, I have to take a much closer look for differences.
Design and display
The display is practically unchanged compared to its predecessor. The OLED screen measures 6.1 inches, like the 7a, with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. Google has slightly increased the refresh rate. Instead of 60 to 90 hertz, you now get 60 to 120 hertz. It should also be brighter than the 7a, but Google does not give any figures here.
The small changes to the look help to create a new overall impression. The corners of the Google Pixel 8a are slightly more rounded than on its predecessor, giving the device a less angular appearance. The back is now matt instead of glossy, which I like much better. In addition to black and white, you have two new bright colours to choose from: Green (Aloe) and blue (Bay), instead of light blue and red like last year.
Source: Google
The Google Pixel 8a remains the same size as the Pixel 7a: 152 × 73 × 9 millimetres. However, at 188 grams, it is six grams lighter.
Hardware: Google's latest chip installed
The big innovation is the chip. With the Pixel 8a, you get the Tensor G3 from Google, which is already used in the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. For the security chip, you get the tried-and-tested Titan M2, which has been in the models since the Pixel 6 (2021).
In terms of connectivity, Google relies on the same setup as the Pixel 7a: 5G, Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
The battery has become slightly larger. It was 4,300 mAh in the Pixel 7a. Now it is 4,500 mAh. According to Google, in combination with the more efficient chip, the battery should last 50% longer than the Pixel 7a. The manufacturer claims up to 24 hours. You can find out the exact figures in the test that our colleague Lorenz Keller is already working on.
The cameras remain the same as its predecessor: 64 megapixels (F/1.9 and 1/1.73") for the main camera and 13 megapixels (F/2.2) for the ultra-wide-angle camera and the front camera.
Software
An important innovation is the 7 years of software support from Google. This is also available for the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. With the Pixel 7a, it was five years.
Google has also added its own artificial intelligence Gemini to the phone. Gemini works as a voice assistant on the device. Furthermore, the AI functions already known from the Pixel 8 are now also available here. These are the most important
- Best shot: compose an optimised shot from similar photos
- Magic editor: edit photos, improve background, exposure and so on
- Magic eraser: remove distracting objects, adjust the colour and brightness of objects
- Magic audio eraser: filter out disturbing noises in video recordings
- Circle to Search: Circle an object or text and search online with Google AI
Price and availability
The Google Pixel 8a is available with 8 GB RAM and either 128 GB or 256 GB ROM. Prices start at 499 francs or 549 euros. You can currently order the device with a special offer. You can find more information here:
In my world, Super Mario chases Stormtroopers with a unicorn and Harley Quinn mixes cocktails for Eddie and Peter at the beach bar. Wherever I can live out my creativity, my fingers tingle. Or maybe it's because nothing flows through my veins but chocolate, glitter and coffee.
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