Leak hints that Google's Pixel 8A will closely resemble the Pixel 8

The recent leak suggests that Google's Pixel 8A is poised to share many similarities with its pricier counterpart. Speculations indicate that the upcoming budget-friendly phone from the tech giant may feature the Tensor G3 processor, akin to the Pixel 8, and potentially boast a higher 120Hz refresh rate, as per insights from Android Authority. This move would further narrow the gap between Google's flagship and more affordable phone offerings. 

If the leak holds true, it would mirror Google's strategy with the Pixel 7A from the previous year. In my review of the Pixel 7A, I noted that it felt like a slightly more affordable iteration of the Pixel 7, maintaining core features while being $100 cheaper. 

CNET's request for comment on the leak from a Google representative went unanswered at the time of reporting. 

Additional similarities between the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8A may extend to design and screen brightness. Reports suggest that the Pixel 8A could see an enhancement to 1,400 nits to align with the Pixel 8's display capabilities. Notably, the primary differentiator between the two devices could lie in the camera setup. The Pixel 8A is rumored to sport a 64-megapixel main camera, a 13-megapixel ultrawide camera, and a 13-megapixel selfie camera, akin to the Pixel 7A. In contrast, the Pixel 8 features a 50-megapixel primary shooter, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 10.5-megapixel front camera. 

While on paper the Pixel 8A's camera setup may appear superior to the Pixel 8's, real-world performance could be nuanced. Drawing parallels to the Pixel 7A and Pixel 7 comparison, where differences weren't stark, Google's emphasis on larger, light-sensitive camera sensors for improved image quality suggests a similar scenario for the Pixel 8A. 

Moreover, reports indicate that the Pixel 8A will support DisplayPort connectivity, enabling users to link their device to external monitors. This feature is also anticipated to extend to the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, as hinted by an Android beta software release. 

An intriguing aspect surrounding the Pixel 8A is whether Google will commit to providing Android version and security updates for seven years, aligning with the standard set by the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. This extended support could bolster the Pixel 8A's value proposition and potentially outshine competitors like Samsung's Galaxy A35 5G and Galaxy A55 5G, slated to receive four years of updates. 

Given Google's track record, the Pixel 8A could be unveiled at an upcoming event, possibly akin to the Pixel 7A's debut during Google I/O last year. While concrete details are pending, Google typically prices its A-series phones 100��100to150 below its flagship Pixel models. 

While democratizing quality smartphones is commendable, the convergence in target audiences for Google's standard Pixel lineup and A-series devices may dilute the appeal of the Pixel 8. Should the Pixel 8A indeed present a scaled-back version of the Pixel 8, as leaks suggest, it could set a high benchmark for the anticipated Pixel 9. 

Source: Newsroom