Google has unveiled its latest mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 8a, as the successor to last year’s Pixel 7a.
While the two models share some similarities, the newcomer brings notable upgrades under the hood.
We have already detailed a comparison with the Pixel 8 and now it’s time to explore how last year’s 7a stacks up against the Pixel 8a.
| Specification | Google Pixel 8a | Google Pixel 7a |
| Display | 6.1″ OLED, 1080×2400 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate | 6.1″ OLED, 1080×2400 pixels, 90Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | Google Tensor G3 | Google Tensor G2 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB |
| Main Camera | 64 MP (wide), 13 MP (ultrawide) | 64 MP (wide), 13 MP (ultrawide) |
| Selfie Camera | 13 MP | 13 MP |
| Battery | 4500 mAh | 4385 mAh |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 13, upgradable to Android 14 |
| Weight | 184g | 193.5 grams |
| Pricing | Starts at Rs 52,999 | Rs 36,999 |
Powering the Pixel 8a is Google’s latest Tensor G3 chipset, a significant upgrade over the Tensor G2 found in the 7a.
The G3 is the same chipset found in the newer Pixel 8 and while it is not a flagship-grade chipset in the Android world, it still is in a league above the G2.
Coupled with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage, the 8a promises snappier performance and improved efficiency.
Both models feature the Titan M2 security chip for enhanced protection.
Verdict: The upgrade to the Tensor G3 chipset in the Pixel 8a offers a compelling improvement in performance and efficiency, justifying the model’s premium over the 7a for power users.
The Google Pixel 8a starts at Rs 52,999 for the 128GB model and Rs 59,999 for the 256GB variant.
It will be available for purchase through Flipkart and other retailers in the coming weeks.
The Pixel 7a on the other hand is still priced at Rs 36,999 for the single 8GB + 128GB variant, a slight decrease from the original pricing.
Verdict: The higher starting price of the Pixel 8a reflects its enhancements, but it may also put it out of reach for some budget-conscious consumers.
| GOOGLE PIXEL 8A | GOOGLE PIXEL 7A |
| Rs 52,999 for 8GB/128GB | Rs 36,999 for 8GB/128GB |
| Rs 59,999 for 8GB/256GB |
The Pixel 8a packs a larger 4,492mAh battery compared to the 7a’s 4,385mAh cell, promising longer runtimes between charges.
Also, we have to consider the fact that the Tensor G3 chipset is quite power efficient as compared to the G2 on the 7a.
Potentially this could offer an even more of an extended battery life.
Fast charging is supported at 27W on the 8a, while the 7a tops out at 18W.
Both phones offer wireless charging capabilities.
Verdict: The larger battery and faster charging capabilities make the Pixel 8a a better option for those who prioritize battery life and quick power-ups.
Software-wise, the Pixel 8a ships with the latest Android 14 out of the box and is guaranteed to receive updates for up to 7 years, outlasting the 7a’s promised support cycle.
Verdict: The extended software support period enhances the Pixel 8a’s value proposition, making it a smarter long-term investment.
The camera hardware remains unchanged, with a 64MP primary sensor and a 13MP ultra-wide lens adorning the back of both devices.
However, the Tensor G3’s improved image signal processor (ISP) could potentially deliver better image quality on the Pixel 8a.
Actually, it most definitely will, especially so in low light scenarios.
Upfront for both devies, a 13MP selfie camera handles video calls and self-portraits.
Verdict: The unchanged camera specs may disappoint some, but the enhanced processing power of the Pixel 8a could offer a noticeable improvement in image quality.
Both phones flaunt a 6.1-inch OLED display with full HD+ resolution, but the Pixel 8a boasts a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate, stepping up from the 7a’s 90Hz panel.
It is worth noting that by default the higher refresh rate is off on both devices and you have to enable it in the settings menu.
The signature Pixel design remains, with a horizontal camera bar on the back and a punch-hole selfie camera upfront.
However, the 8a’s bezels are slightly chunkier, giving it a dated look despite its premium pricing.
Verdict: While the increased refresh rate of the Pixel 8a enhances the visual experience, the thicker bezels might not appeal to everyone, particularly given the higher price point.
While the Pixel 8a brings notable improvements in performance, display quality, battery life, and software support, it also commands a premium over its predecessor.
The Rs 15,000 price gap might tip the scales in favour of the 7a, which by all accounts is a wonderful device if you want the pure Android experience while also having a respectable camera setup.
In the end, potential buyers will have to weigh the added features against the increased cost to determine which model best suits their needs and budget.
| Sim Type | Dual Sim |
| Dual Sim | Yes |
| Sim Size | Nano+eSIM |
| Device Type | Smartphone |
| Release Date | October 11, 2023 (Expected) |
| Type | Color OLED Screen (16M Colors) |
| Touch | Yes |
| Size | 6.3 inches, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 90 Hz |
| Aspect Ratio | 20:9 |
| PPI | ~ 418 PPI |
| Screen to Body Ratio | ~ 88.93% |
| Notch | Punch Hole |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB |
| Storage Type | UFS 3.1 |
| Card Slot | No |
| GPRS | Yes |
| EDGE | Yes |
| 3G | Yes |
| 4G | Yes |
| 5G | Yes |
| VoLTE | Yes |
| Wifi | Yes, with wifi-hotspot |
| Bluetooth | Yes, v5.3 |
| USB | Yes, USB-C |
| USB Features | USB Tethering, USB on-the-go, USB Charging |
| GPS | Yes |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Yes, In Display |
| Face Unlock | Yes |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Ambient Light, Barometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Proximity Sensor |
| 3.5mm Headphone Jack | USB Type-C |
| Extra | NFC |
| Rear Camera | 12.2 MP (Main) 12 MP (Ultra Wide) with autofocus |
| Features | Digital Zoom, Auto Flash, Face detection, Touch to focus |
| Video Recording | 1080p @ 30 fps FHD |
| Flash | Yes, Dual LED |
| Front Camera | Punch Hole 10.1 MP f/2 |
| Front Video Recording | 1080p @ 30 fps FHD |
| OS | Android v13 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G3 |
| CPU | 3 GHz, Nine-Cores Processor |
| Core Details | 1×3.0 GHz Cortex-X3 & 4×2.45 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4×2.15 GHz Cortex-A510 |
| GPU | Immortalis-G715s MC10 |
| Java | No |
| Browser | Yes |
| Yes | |
| Music | Yes |
| Video | Yes |
| FM Radio | Yes |
| Document Reader | Yes |
| Type | Non-Removable Battery |
| Size | 4700 mAh, Li-Po Battery |
| Fast Charging | Yes, 67W Fast Charge |
| Launch Date | April 27, 2023 (Unofficial) |
| Operating System | Android v12 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G2 |
| CPU | Octa core (2.8 GHz, Dual core, Cortex X1 + 2.25 GHz, Dual core, Cortex A76 + 1.8 GHz, Quad core, Cortex A55) |
| Co-Processor | Titan M2 |
| Architecture | 64 bit |
| Fabrication | 5 nm |
| Graphics | Mali-G78 MP20 |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Display Type | OLED |
| Screen Size | 6.1 inches (15.49 cm) |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels |
| Aspect Ratio | 20:9 |
| Pixel Density | 431 ppi |
| Bezel-less display | Yes with punch-hole display |
| Touch Screen | Yes, Capacitive Touchscreen, Multi-touch |
| Refresh Rate | 90 Hz |
| Screen to Body Ratio (claimed by the brand) | 84.3 % |
| Waterproof | Yes, Water resistant, IP67 |
| Ruggedness | Dust proof |
| MAIN CAMERA | ||
| Camera Setup | Dual | |
| Resolution | 12.2 MP f/1.7, Primary Camera 12 MP f/2.2, Ultra-Wide Angle Camera |
|
| Autofocus | Yes | |
| Flash | Yes, LED Flash | |
| Image Resolution | 4000 x 3000 Pixels | |
| Settings | Exposure compensation | |
| Shooting Modes | Continuous Shooting High Dynamic Range mode (HDR) |
|
| Camera Features | Digital Zoom Auto Flash Face detection Touch to focus |
|
| Video Recording | 3840×2160 @ 30 fps 1920×1080 @ 30 fps |
|
| FRONT CAMERA | ||
| Camera Setup | Single | |
| Resolution | 8 MP f/2, Primary Camera | |
| Video Recording | 1920×1080 @ 30 fps | |
| Capacity | 4410 mAh |
| Type | Li-Polymer |
| Removable | No |
| Wireless Charging | Yes |
| Quick Charging | Yes, Fast |
| USB Type-C | Yes |
| Internal Memory | 128 GB |
| Expandable Memory | No |
| SIM Slot(s) | Dual SIM, GSM+GSM |
| SIM Size | SIM1: Nano, SIM2: Nano |
| Network Support | 5G Not Supported in India, 4G Supported in India, 3G, 2G |
| VoLTE | Yes |
| SIM 1 |
4G Bands:
TD-LTE 2300(band 40)
FD-LTE 1800(band 3) 3G Bands:
UMTS 1900 / 2100 / 850 / 900 MHz
2G Bands:
GSM 1800 / 1900 / 850 / 900 MHz
GPRS:
Available
EDGE:
Available
|
| SIM 2 |
4G Bands:
TD-LTE 2300(band 40)
FD-LTE 1800(band 3) 3G Bands:
UMTS 1900 / 2100 / 850 / 900 MHz
2G Bands:
GSM 1800 / 1900 / 850 / 900 MHz
GPRS:
Available
EDGE:
Available
|
| Wi-Fi | Yes, Wi-Fi 4 (802.11 b/g/n) |
| Wi-Fi Features | Mobile Hotspot |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| GPS | Yes with A-GPS, Glonass |
| NFC | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | Mass storage device, USB charging |
| Loudspeaker | Yes |
| Audio Jack | USB Type-C |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Yes |
| Fingerprint Sensor Position | On-screen |
| Fingerprint Sensor Type | Optical |
| Other Sensors | Light sensor, Proximity sensor, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope |
The Pixel 8a features a more powerful Tensor G3 processor, a higher 120Hz refresh rate display, and enhanced battery capacity with faster charging compared to the Pixel 7a.
While both phones have the same camera specifications, the Pixel 8a’s new chipset could enhance image processing, potentially offering better photo quality than the Pixel 7a.
The Pixel 8a starts at Rs 52,999, which is significantly higher than the Pixel 7a’s Rs 36,999. The price difference is due to the Pixel 8a’s upgraded specs like the higher refresh rate screen and better chipset.
While the Pixel 8a offers more advanced features, the Pixel 7a remains a great value choice for those looking for solid performance at a more affordable price.
The Pixel 8a comes with Android 14 and promises up to 7 years of updates, providing longer software support compared to the Pixel 7a, enhancing its appeal as a long-term investment.
Google Pixel 8a specifications
Our refined A-Series design feels even better in your hands with rounded edges, a matte back and an aluminum frame.
Its durable design can handle slips, spills and dust, making Pixel 8a the most durable A-Series phone yet. Plus, its new Actua display is 40% brighter than Pixel 7a’s, and the faster 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling smooth.
There are two new A-series colors: Aloe (a limited-edition color!) and Bay. Or choose from one of our neutral color options: Obsidian or Porcelain.
And for the first time ever, there’s a larger storage capacity option at 256 GB, giving you more space for your favorite content.
Ranked the best smartphone camera in its category, Pixel 8a features a powerful dual rear camera with a 64-megapixel main lens and a 13-megapixel ultrawide lens.
It also comes equipped with a 13-megapixel front-facing camera that has a large field-of view to fit even more into your shots.
Thanks to Google Tensor G3, Pixel 8a is packed with AI-powered tools to make the most out of your photos and videos:
Best Take lets you create the group shot you want. Choose what you think is the best expression for everyone in a series of photos.
Magic Editor lets you reposition and resize subjects or use presets to make the background pop — all with just a few taps.
Audio Magic Eraser easily removes distracting sounds in your videos— like wind, crowds and other noises — for crisp and clear audio.
Pixel 8a also includes Super Res Zoom up to 8x and features like Magic Eraser, Night Sight and Photo Unblur. Like every Pixel, Pixel 8a includes Real Tone to accurately represent everyone’s skin tone in photos and videos.
With features built to help you save time, Pixel 8a helps you get more things checked off your to-do list so you can spend more time doing things that matter most to you.
Gemini is coming to Pixel 8a. This built-in AI assistant lets you type, talk and add images for all kinds of help on the go — from brainstorming ideas, writing a thank you note or even planning your next vacation.
Once you enable extensions, you can ask Gemini to do tasks like summarize your recent emails or quickly sift through your inbox. Hold the power button to get started with Gemini.
Circle to Search is also on Pixel 8a, so you no longer have to switch apps to find the information you are looking for — saving you time.
Just use your finger to circle, scribble or tap on an image, text or video to search for what you’re looking at.
And AI-powered Pixel Call Assist features — like Call Screen, Direct My Call, Hold for Me, Clear Calling and more — are all included on the Pixel 8a too.
Pixel 8a will also introduce Audio Emoji, making your phone calls more expressive and engaging than before. With Audio Emoji, just tap on an emoji to trigger an audio reaction and visual effect.
Try using a hand-clap emoji to applaud a job well done or the laughing emoji after telling your best joke.
Improved setup and controls make it a great phone for families.
Now, it is even easier for parents and guardians to set up a Pixel for their child. With an improved setup right out of the box, parents and guardians can set digital ground rules for the phone.
Once the phone is set up, Family Link lets you manage privacy settings, establish screen time limits and share location.
Next level security
Safety and security are always a top priority. Similar to the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, this phone is built with the latest Google Tensor G3 chip, our fastest and most secure chip to date.
It works with the certified Titan M2 security chip and built-in VPN for additional protection so it’s even more resilient against threats.
And Pixel 8a will receive seven years of software support, including security updates and Android OS upgrades.
Plus you’ll benefit from all the new features and improvements in ongoing Feature Drops.
The Pixel 7a camera features a 72 per cent larger sensor than its predecessor, the Pixel 6a, and includes a new 13-megapixel ultrawide lens.
Google claims that Night Sight is now twice as fast, and users can capture 4K video using the 13-megapixel front camera.
The Pixel 7a also offers Super Res Zoom up to 8x. Pixel 7a also gets Magic Eraser and Photo Unblur in Google Photos.
In terms of design, the Pixel 7a retains the design elements of its predecessors, featuring the Pixel camera bar.
Google claims that the new midframe architecture enhances durability. The phone’s aluminum housing is composed of 100 per cent recycled materials.
The device also integrates Pixel Speech features powered by Tensor G2, such as Live Translate, Recorder Speaker Labels, Assistant Voice Typing, and Voice Messaging Transcription on the Messages app.
Google has unveiled several offers for Indian buyers. HDFC Bank cardholders can enjoy an instant discount of Rs 4,000 and the option to avail a no-cost EMI or receive Rs 4,000 off in exchange for any Pixel device or select smartphone models.
Furthermore, customers purchasing the Pixel 7a can also acquire the Fitbit Inspire 2 for ₹3,999 or the Pixel Buds A-Series for the same price when bundled with the smartphone.
Additionally, Google offers free screen damage protection for one year and a three-month trial of YouTube Premium and Google One.
Users can choose from three color options: Charcoal, Snow, and Sea.
The new Pixel 7a is powered by a Google Tensor G2 chip and the Titan M2 security chip, similar to the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro.
The phone gets a 6.1-inch display. It gets Face Unlock, 8GB of RAM, a 90Hz display, IP67 dust and water protection, and wireless charging.
The Google Pixel 7a will compete with a few phones priced around Rs 40,000 in India, including Google’s own Pixel 7. Take a look:
* The OnePlus 11R touts a 120Hz OLED display, a powerful Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC, and 100W charging
* The Google Pixel 7 is priced slightly higher than the Pixel 7a and gets a lot of the same features. However, it offers a bigger 6.3-inch display.
* The Xiaomi 12 Pro gets a flagship-grade display with a 2K AMOLED panel and a 120Hz refresh rate. It also touts a super-fast 120W charging support.
Also Read: Google Pixel 8a Spotted on Geekbench: A Closer Look at Specs, Uncertainties, and Rumours
Also Read: New Google Pixel 8a Leaked Renders Emerge Revealing Fresh Design & Specs
Also Read: Google Pixel 8a Complete Specs Leaked Ahead of Official Unveiling at I/O
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