Looking forward to the Pixel 7a launch during Google I/O on May 10th? Why wait when almost everything about Google's new A-series smartphone has been posted online? Whether it's which processor is being used, possible camera upgrades, or even if it has wireless charging (it does), we've got the details you need to know after the break.
When does it launch?
Updated May 2: Google itself has confirmed (H/T to Droid Life) that the Pixel 7a will go on sale on May 11th, at least in India according to the teaser tweet although it's almost certainly the same date in the US as well. This means that you'll be able to order the Pixel 7a the day after Google I/O via FlipKart (in India) and through the usual US retailers and carriers. It's good news if the May 11th day also applies to the US (which it should). It's so much better when phones go on sale the same day or just after being announced.
We are expecting the Pixel 7a to be announced during Google I/O on May 10th which is a fair bit earlier than with previous Pixel A series phones. It's thought that the Pixel 7a will also go on sale during the month of May (as soon as May 11 according to 9to5Google), so Google isn't planning on making us wait to get our hands on the device.
Hardware
This leak comes courtesy of Roland Quandt at WinFuture and consists of what appears to be marketing images being used by Google. As you can see above, there is even a handy comparison chart showing how the Pixel 7a has been upgraded from last year's Pixel 6a. This time, Google is bringing wireless charging to the Pixel A series for the first time.
The Pixel 7a is said to be powered by Google's Tensor G2 chipset which debuted in last year's Pixel 7 series and we may see an increase in RAM from 6GB to 8GB. It's likely that the storage will remain at 128GB of UFS 3.1 speed.
The display is still the same size and resolution as on the Pixel 6a but the refresh rate is upgraded from 60Hz to 90Hz this time around which brings it more into line with its competitors although it seems that 120Hz is becoming the standard at this price point.
Battery capacity hasn't been disclosed just yet but it's likely to remain around the 4.410-4,500mAh mark considering that Google doesn't tend to view battery size as a priority. While the wired charging speed will probably be the same as seen on the Pixel 6a, there is the addition of wireless charging which should add further versatility to the phone.
Cameras
The Pixel 7a gets a nice little bump in megapixels over its predecessor thanks to the new 64MP main sensor and the 13MP ultra-wide lens. The rear cameras bring Super Res Zoom up to 8x (up from 7x on the Pixel 6a), Real Tone, and Night Sight.
Software
Launching with Android OS 13 in tow, the Pixel 7a will sport the usual list of Pixel tricks such as Call Screening, plus Photo Unblur, Magic Eraser, and Night Sight, plus the addition of VPN by Google One at no extra cost.
Design
As we already know, the Pixel 7a's exterior is now representative of the Pixel 7's aesthetic with a metallic camera housing instead of glass. The new housing helps lighten up the rear panel of the phone, especially in the darker hue. Thanks to Evan Blass and Roland Quandt, we have a great view of the colorways of the upcoming Pixel 7a, as you can see above. The Pixel 7a also has IP67 water and dust resistance which means you needn't worry about getting caught in a downpour.
In the Box
As you should probably expect by now, Google will not be including a charger for the Pixel 6a in the box so you'll need to source your own. What is included in the box is a USB-C to USB-C charging cable, a SIM tool, a Quick Switch adaptor, and a Support card.
Pricing
While this is something that Google will reveal during the launch event, it's thought that the Pixel 7a will be a smidge more expensive than its predecessor, possibly by as much as an addition $50 or so. This means that the Pixel 7a could go on sale for around $499 in the US, at least according to 9to5Google who tend to be pretty accurate. Google will probably bundle in a pair of Pixel A Buds
