The Google Pixel 7a has finally been unveiled after months of leaks and teasers, and it has certainly lived up to the hype. This latest addition to the Pixel lineup was the sole new device showcased at Google I/O that is already available for purchase. If you’ve been patiently waiting for a smartphone that strikes the perfect balance between features and pricing, the Pixel 7a might just be the device you’ve been searching for.
Google has made significant upgrades to the Pixel 7a’s performance, display, cameras, and charging capabilities, albeit at a slightly higher price point. These improvements make it worth exploring how the Pixel 7a compares to Google’s own Pixel 7, as well as its competitors such as the Galaxy A54 or the iPhone SE.
Google Pixel 7a: Specs
| price | $499 |
| Screen | 6.1-inch OLED (2400 x 1080, 429ppi) |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz |
| CPU | Tensor G2 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage / Expandable? | 128GB / No |
| Rear cameras | 64MP (f/1.89) main; 13MP (f/2.2) |
| Front camera | 13MP (f/2.2) |
| Battery size | 4,385 mAh |
| Battery life (Hrs:Mins) | 10:05 (60Hz) |
| Wired charging speed | 18W |
| Wireless charging? | Yes |
| Size | 6 x 2.8 x 0.4 inches / 152 x 72.9 x 9.0 mm |
| Weight | 6.8 ounces / 193.5 grams |
| Colors | Charcoal, Sea, Snow, Coral |
Design and Display
The Google Pixel 7a retains the sleek design language that has become a trademark of the Pixel series. With a premium build quality, the phone features a combination of glass and metal, providing a sturdy and elegant feel in the hand. It sports a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, ensuring vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. The display also supports HDR10+ for an enhanced multimedia experience.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Google Pixel 7a is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G chipset, coupled with 6GB of RAM. This mid-range processor provides a smooth and lag-free performance, capable of handling multitasking and demanding apps with ease. The phone comes with two storage options: 128GB and 256GB, offering ample space for all your apps, photos, and videos.
In terms of software, the Pixel 7a runs on Android 13, the latest iteration of Google’s operating system. Known for its clean and bloatware-free interface, Android 13 brings several new features and improvements, including enhanced privacy settings, improved gesture navigation, and a more personalized user experience. Google’s commitment to providing regular software updates ensures that Pixel 7a users will receive the latest security patches and features for years to come.
Camera Capabilities
The camera has always been the highlight of the Pixel series, and the Pixel 7a is no exception. Equipped with a dual-camera setup, comprising a 64-megapixel main sensor and a 13-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, the Pixel 7a captures stunning photos in various lighting conditions. Google’s computational photography algorithms, combined with features like Night Sight and Super Res Zoom, allow users to capture detailed and vibrant shots even in low-light situations.
On the front, the Pixel 7a boasts a 13-megapixel selfie camera that produces sharp and well-exposed images. The camera app offers a plethora of shooting modes and features, including Portrait Mode, Astrophotography Mode, and an improved Night Sight mode for selfies.
Battery and Charging
To keep the Pixel 7a running all day long, Google has equipped it with a robust 4,385mAh battery. With optimized power management and the efficiency of the Snapdragon 750G chipset, the device offers excellent battery life, easily lasting through a full day of moderate to heavy usage. When it’s time to recharge, the phone supports 18W fast charging, allowing users to quickly top up their device.
Connectivity and Other Features
In terms of connectivity, the Pixel 7a offers support for 5G, ensuring blazing-fast download and upload speeds. It also features NFC for contactless payments and a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer.
As with previous Pixel devices, the Pixel 7a incorporates Google’s Active Edge technology, which allows users to trigger actions by squeezing the sides of the phone. Additionally, it features stereo speakers, providing an immersive audio experience for multimedia consumption.
Pricing and Availability
The Google Pixel 7a is positioned as a budget-friendly smartphone with flagship-like features. It offers excellent value for money, starting at $399 for the base 128GB variant. The higher storage option of 256GB is available for $449, making it an attractive choice for users who require more storage space.
The Pixel 7a is available in three color options: Just Black, Clearly White, and Kinda Sage. It can be purchased directly from the Google Store, as well as through various online and offline retailers.
More help from AI on an A-series phone
Pixel 7a includes all of the AI-powered Pixel Call Assist features that make Pixel the best phone for phone calls:
- Direct My Call lets you see menu options and get to the right department quicker when calling businesses.
- Call Screen tells you who’s calling and why, so you know before picking up.
- Hold for Me waits on the line so you don’t have to and notifies you once the representative is available.
- Clear Calling enhances the caller’s voice and reduces background noise.
- Wait Times gives you an estimated time you’ll be on hold for when calling a business.
Conclusion
With the Pixel 7a, Google has once again proven that it can deliver an exceptional smartphone experience without breaking the bank. The device combines a sleek design, a vibrant display, solid performance, and an outstanding camera system. The clean Android 13 software, coupled with Google’s commitment to regular updates, ensures a seamless and secure user experience.
While the Pixel 7a does make some compromises to achieve its affordable price point, such as the lack of wireless charging and water resistance, it still manages to provide an impressive package overall.
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly smartphone that doesn’t compromise on camera capabilities, software experience, and performance, the Google Pixel 7a is a compelling choice. It offers an excellent balance of features and affordability, making it one of the best options in its price range.
