Google is planning to launch its Pixel 9a model sooner than usual this year. This affordable smartphone is set to have some exciting updates in several important areas. One major change is its design. Recent leaks have suggested that the company is emphasizing a more minimalist look. A recently released video gives us a closer look at how the Pixel 9a actually appears in real life.
Our collection of leaked images showed what the final design of the Pixel 9a would look like. However, these images made the phone seem more high-end than it actually does in person. The new hands-on video shows a device that, at first, may seem a bit “cheap,” and not in a great way.
In the hands-on video, the Pixel 9a is shown in the Obsidian color, one of four colors the phone will likely be available in. The back cover of the device is made of plastic, which is a common decision for budget models like this one. Google appears to be trying to keep costs low with this new version. Shane Craig, who managed to save the video after it was taken down from the original source, mentioned that the phone has a plastic feel similar to the older Nokia Lumia phones. If you’ve held a Lumia before, you might recall how sturdy those devices felt.
Even though the back of the Pixel 9a is plastic, the sides of the phone seem to be made from aluminum. You can spot the antenna lines that are usually found on metal phones, which help to avoid signal issues. This feature adds a bit more toughness to the phone, making it more resistant to drops.
In past models, Google aimed for the Pixel a line to resemble their more expensive flagship phones. However, the company seems to be taking a new direction with the Pixel 9a. They have completely removed the rear camera bar that was a signature design of the Pixel 9 series. Instead, we see a small, pill-shaped camera section. There’s also an LED flash conveniently placed next to the camera sensors, outside of the main camera area. Additionally, the well-known “G” logo is located in the center of the back of the phone.
The leaked information does not reveal what the front display of the Pixel 9a looks like. However, earlier leaks indicated that the phone will have wide bezels. On a positive note, there is a small upgrade: the bezels are now symmetric, which adds a more balanced look to the device.
In summary, the Pixel 9a seems to be focusing on a simple, minimalist design while making some choices to keep costs down. The combination of a plastic back and aluminum frame might give it a durable feel, although early impressions suggest it may not compete visually with higher-end models. With these changes, Google appears to be aiming to offer a solid option for those looking for an affordable smartphone with decent performance.