Like every year, Google has created hype around its upcoming A series smartphone, the Pixel 8a. It is set to debut in May. Through various leaks and rumors (including alleged hands-on images of the device), we already know what the smartphone looks like, its features, and its performance. However, what wasn’t clear about the Pixel 8a was its price, well, until now.
In October 2023, we partnered with notable tipster Steve Hemmerstoffer (@OnLeaks) to bring you the first look at the Pixel 8a (via a 360-degree video and 5K renders). Continuing the streak of exclusive leaks, we present the pricing of the Pixel 8a. Spoiler alert: the smartphone will not be heavier in your pocket.
Google Pixel 8a To Cost The Same As Pixel 7a, At Least In The United States
To experience a clean Android operating system with Google’s AI-based features, you’d have to pay USD 499 for the variant with 128GB storage and USD 559 for the variant with 256GB of storage.
Contrary to previous reports, the Pixel 8a will cost the same as the Pixel 7a did when it came out. This increases the handset’s value proposition because it will offer significant upgrades over its predecessor.
Pixel 8a Vs. Pixel 7a: Worthwhile Upgrades
For instance, the Pixel 8a is said to flaunt a 120Hz OLED display with a punch-hole cutout. Under the hood, the smartphone will feature the Google Tensor G3 SoC, which powers the flagship Pixel 8 series. Further, the battery cell also sees a bump from 4,385 mAh on the Pixel 7a to 4,500 on the Pixel 8a.
All these upgrades, combined with the suite of generative AI features that Google already has on the Pixel 8 series, will make the Pixel 8a a compelling deal. For instance, the smartphone could feature the latest Circle to Search feature, a visual lookup that recognizes what’s on the user’s screen and helps gather more information about it. Further, Pixel 8a users should get access to the AI features in Google Photos, including Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, etc.
Also Read: Google Pixel 8a Roundup: Tensor G3 SoC, 120Hz Display, 64MP Primary Camera, And More
Also Read: Pixel 8a Vs. Pixel 7a: Prepare For Some Major Design Changes; A Thick Bottom Bezel?
What About The Pixel 8a’s Indian Pricing?
Although we don’t have any information on the Pixel 8a’s Indian pricing, it should be easy to speculate. The basis of this speculation remains the Pixel 7a’s global pricing and how it compares to the Indian pricing of the smartphone.
Google launched the Pixel 7a (128GB) for $499 in the USA. At the same time, the smartphone arrived in India at a listing price of Rs. 43,999 (and an effective price of Rs. 39,999, which included offers).
On the day of launch, i.e., May 10, 2023, one USD was equal to Rs. 81.92 (average conversion rate per Google’s tracker). Hence, the converted price comes out to be approximately Rs. 40,878. Even so, Google launched the phone in India for a higher listing price.
Per the April 30, 2024 conversion rate, the Pixel 8a’s converted price is around Rs. 41,664. Hence, we expect Google to unveil the phone at a slightly higher listing price, perhaps around Rs. 44,999.
Nonetheless, buyers should still expect to see card offers, which might bring down the price to match the global variant.
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