Oliver Haslam on March 19, 2025, 10:46 pm

Google Announces The Pixel 9a, A Budget Android Phone For Just $499

Google has today announced the new Google Pixel 9a, a phone that offers some of the premium Pixel 9 series features at a price that is more affordable. The new phone will retail for just $499.

The new Pixel 9a, announced via a press release, has a new look and flatter profile with rounded edges that house the 6.3-inch Actua display.

That display is the brightest ever to be used in a Pixel A-series device and offers a 120Hz refresh rate — perfect for fast-scrolling in apps and playing games.

Buyers will be able to choose from new colors including Peony and Iris, while Porcelain and Obsidian are also offered for people who want something a little less exciting.

In terms of specifications, the new Pixel 9a comes with a Google Tensor G4 chip inside and comes in 128GB and 256GB of storage. 8GB of RAM is offered, while battery life comes in at up to 100 hours when using the Extreme Battery Saver feature.

Fans of cameras will note the 48-megapixel rear camera as well as a 13-megapixel ultrawide shooter. They include support for 0.5x and 1x optical quality zoom as well as 4K video capture. Up front, a 13-megapixel camera handles selfies and whatnot.

Availability begins in April, with Google noting that its familiar AI features are present and correct including its Call Assist features and photography upgrades.