Tag: Pixel 9a

  • Google Pixel 7a: Up to $450 for Battery Issue in Pixel A Series

    Google Pixel 7a: Up to $450 for Battery Issue in Pixel A Series

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google launched the Pixel 9a, priced at $499, to bridge the gap between the Pixel A series and flagship models.
    2. The Pixel 9a’s battery may lose capacity after 200 charging cycles, with voltage dropping significantly between 201 and 1,000 cycles.
    3. An extended repair program has been introduced for the Pixel 7a due to significant battery degradation and inflation issues.
    4. Free battery replacement is offered for the Pixel 7a, but claims may be denied for devices with liquid damage or screen cracks.
    5. Users outside India and the US may qualify for alternative compensation options worth up to $456 in local currency.

    Google has recently launched the Pixel 9a worldwide (curr. $499 on Amazon), which helps close the gap between the Pixel A series and the flagship models. While there are many shared features between the Pixel A and Pixel smartphones, the earlier models have been facing more battery issues lately.

    Battery Concerns

    For instance, at the beginning of this year, Google released an update for the Pixel 4a that actually cut the battery life in half. By March, Google confirmed that the Pixel 9a’s battery would start to lose its capacity after 200 charging cycles. Even more troubling, the device’s voltage would gradually drop between 201 and 1,000 cycles.

    Extended Repair Program

    In a quiet move, Google has introduced an ‘extended repair programme’ for the Pixel 7a, which was launched less than two years ago. In a support announcement, the company acknowledged that some Pixel 7a batteries have degraded significantly, leading to inflation. Usually, this issue can be noticed when the battery pushes the back panel of the Pixel 7a to bulge or even come off completely. However, it’s possible that the only sign could be a drastically reduced battery life.

    Currently, Google has offered just one free battery replacement. However, they will deny a replacement if your Pixel 7a shows any signs of liquid damage, screen cracks, or has been ‘exposed to sharp objects.’ If you are located outside of India or the United States, you might qualify for different ‘appeasement options’ valued at up to $456 converted into your local currency. For more details, check out Google’s support and registration pages.

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    Google Pixel 7a: Up to $450 for Battery Issue in Pixel A Series
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  • Google Pixel 9a Camera & Display Reviews – DxOMark Global Rank 33

    Google Pixel 9a Camera & Display Reviews – DxOMark Global Rank 33

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a scored 153 points in camera performance, ranking 33rd globally and first in the high-end category for upper mid-range smartphones.
    2. The camera features a solid dynamic range, precise exposure, and vibrant colors, but struggles with zoomed shots and low-light conditions.
    3. The display received a score of 155 points, the highest in its category, and ranked 8th globally.
    4. The display is noted for being excellent for web browsing and watching videos, with a responsive and clear screen.
    5. The Pixel 9a was launched in India for 49,999 INR and globally starts at 499 US Dollars.

    Google’s new Pixel 9a has recently been reviewed by DxOMark, and the results are now available. Similar to the other models in the Pixel 9 series, it has earned respectable scores in both camera and display categories. Let’s dive into the details.

    Camera Performance

    In the evaluation of its camera, Google’s Pixel 9a scored 153 points, placing it at 33rd in the global smartphone rankings. Remarkably, it secured the top spot in the high-end category, which encompasses upper mid-range smartphones. The tests conducted by DxOMark showed that the Pixel 9a incorporates many of the high-end features found in the pricier Pixel 9.

    Display Quality

    The camera boasts a solid dynamic range, precise exposure, and vibrant colors. However, it does face challenges with zoomed shots due to the absence of a dedicated telephoto lens. Additionally, the Pixel 9a encounters difficulties in dim lighting conditions for both photos and videos. DxOMark also assessed the display, awarding it a score of 155 points, which is again the highest in its category. Notably, the Pixel 9a even made it into the global top 10, landing at the 8th position.

    The review highlights that the display is excellent for various activities, including standard web browsing and watching videos. The Pixel 9a features a lively and clear screen that responds swiftly and accurately to touch. This model was launched in India earlier this month with an initial price of 49,999 INR, while it can be found globally starting at 499 US Dollars.

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  • Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999

    Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 9a is now available globally, with a launch in India on April 16, exclusively on Flipkart, priced at ₹49,999.
    2. It features IP68 water and dust resistance, a 6.3-inch OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, and a long battery life of up to 30 hours.
    3. The smartphone is powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset and runs on Android 15, offering 7 years of OS and security updates.
    4. Key camera innovations include AI-driven tools like “Add Me,” “Macro Focus,” and the Magic Editor for enhanced mobile photography.
    5. Buyers in India will receive a 1-year warranty, a 14-day replacement option, and same-day repair services in select cities, along with 24/7 customer support.

    Google has introduced the Pixel 9a smartphone last month on a global level. This smartphone is now available for purchase in the US and other nations like Canada, Germany, France, and Italy. It will launch in India starting April 16, where it will be sold exclusively on Flipkart from 12 PM. Flipkart has begun promoting the device already. The phone will come in a single variant with 8GB RAM and 256GB of storage, priced at ₹49,999, and will be offered in three distinct colors: Porcelain, Iris, and Obsidian.

    Features and Specifications

    The Pixel 9a is designed with IP68 water and dust resistance, boasting up to 30 hours of battery life, alongside 7 years of OS and security updates. It operates on Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, which is integrated across various Google applications. Users can enjoy two-way natural conversations and AI-driven image creation with Gemini.

    Camera Innovations

    Noteworthy camera features include “Add Me,” “Macro Focus,” and “Best Take.” The Magic Editor tool enables users to crop, reframe, or enlarge images using AI, aiming to improve mobile photography while requiring little manual intervention.

    In India, purchasers will receive a 1-year warranty, a 14-day replacement option, and same-day repair services in certain cities. Google is also providing 24/7 customer support through chat and callback options.

    Pixel 9a Specifications

    The Pixel 9a boasts a 6.3-inch OLED display with a refresh rate of 120Hz and FHD+ resolution. It is powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset alongside the Titan M2 security chip. The device runs on Android 15 right out of the box and guarantees 7 years of OS updates. In terms of cameras, it features a dual rear setup with a 48MP main sensor and a 48MP ultra-wide lens, complemented by a 13MP front camera. The phone is equipped with a 5,100mAh battery that supports 23W wired fast charging and 7.5W wireless charging.

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    Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999Google Pixel 9a Launching in India Tomorrow for ₹49,999

     

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  • Google Pixel 9a Battery Voltage Limits After 200 Charging Cycles

    Google Pixel 9a Battery Voltage Limits After 200 Charging Cycles

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a will introduce a “battery health optimization” feature that lowers battery voltage over time.
    2. This feature may lead to shorter battery life compared to the Pixel 9 after several months of use.
    3. Google has not provided specific details on the extent of voltage reduction, leaving its impact unclear.
    4. Unlike Apple, users won’t have the option to disable the optimization on the Pixel 9a.
    5. The battery health feature will be available for other Pixel devices later, with older models allowing users to turn it off.

    A few days back, Google revealed when the Pixel 9a would be launched:

    Battery Life Insights

    Even with a bigger battery, the Pixel 9a may have a shorter battery life compared to the Pixel 9 after it has been used for several months. This was confirmed by Google in a support document stating that the Pixel 9a will be the first Pixel phone to introduce a “battery health optimization” feature. This feature works by automatically lowering the battery voltage once it hits 200 charging cycles. The voltage will continue to decrease gradually until it reaches 1,000 charging cycles. With reduced voltage, the battery life will likely decrease, and charging times will be slower. Google claims this method is meant to “stabilize battery performance and wear,” but it brings to mind the disastrous battery update that made many Google Pixel 4a phones nearly unusable.

    Uncertain Impact on Battery Life

    Google hasn’t provided specific figures on how much the voltage will be decreased, leaving us in the dark about its actual impact on battery life. Unlike Apple’s iPhone, there’s no option to turn off these “optimizations” on the Pixel 9a. To regain the full battery voltage after 200 cycles or more, users would need to get a new battery. Google has told 9to5Google that this “battery health optimization” feature will be rolled out to other Pixel devices later this year through a software update, but owners of older models will be able to turn off the feature if they wish.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the Pixel 9a is set to introduce a significant change in how battery health is managed, but its implications remain uncertain. Users should be aware of these potential issues as they consider the new device.

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    Google Pixel 9a Battery Voltage Limits After 200 Charging Cycles

     

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  • Google Pixel 9a Release: Countries Getting the New Smartphone Next Month

    Google Pixel 9a Release: Countries Getting the New Smartphone Next Month

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is not showing pre-order dates for the Pixel 9a on their store listing; users must enter their email to be notified.
    2. The Pixel 9a will launch in Canada, the UK, and the US on April 10.
    3. It will be available in the Eurozone and Switzerland on April 14.
    4. Pre-orders for Australia, India, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia will start on April 16.
    5. Google has confirmed launch dates for the Pixel 9a in a total of 31 countries, but Japan’s date is still unknown.

    With April just around the corner, the Google store listing still doesn’t show when folks can pre-order the Pixel 9a. Instead, the company is asking users to enter their email to ‘Get notified’ when it will be available. But they did let slip the pre-order dates, although it was posted on a support page that probably won’t be read by many.

    Release Dates for Different Regions

    As per that page, the Pixel 9a will be available in Canada, the UK, and the US starting April 10. It will then make its way to the Eurozone and Switzerland on April 14. For those living in Australia, India, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia, the wait will last until April 16 to pre-order the Pixel 9a. There are talks about the device coming to Japan too, but Google hasn’t said when that will happen. Apart from Japan, Google has confirmed the launch dates for the Pixel 9a in a total of 31 countries.

    Summary of Availability

    To sum it all up, while Google keeps a few details under wraps, they have provided specific dates for the Pixel 9a’s launch in several regions. Users eager to get their hands on the device will need to mark their calendars for these important dates.

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  • Google Postpones Pixel 9A Release Due to Quality Issues

    Google Postpones Pixel 9A Release Due to Quality Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is delaying the launch of the Pixel 9A to address a component quality issue, with the new shipping date set for April instead of March.
    2. Preorders for the Pixel 9A have not yet started, marking a departure from Google’s usual product release timeline.
    3. Ongoing quality checks are the reason for the delay, and an embargo prevents creators from sharing information about the device’s features.
    4. Although the Pixel series has generally been reliable, there have been past issues, including firmware updates for battery overheating and screen defects.
    5. The Pixel 9A features a large 5,100mAh battery and a unique design, but customers will have to wait an additional month for its release.

    Google has decided to delay the launch of the Pixel 9A to fix a component quality problem that is impacting “a small number of Pixel 9A devices.” The new shipping date is now set for April instead of March, and preorders have not yet started on the Google Store. This change is unlike Google’s typical approach of releasing products right after they are announced.

    Ongoing Quality Checks

    In a comment made to The Verge, Google spokesperson Matt Flegal pointed out that this postponement is due to ongoing quality checks related to a specific component issue. The embargo surrounding this device prevents creators from sharing certain features or capabilities. “They are not permitting us to display any software at all like I usually do,” mentioned popular YouTube creator Marques Brownlee.

    Serious Concerns

    Although testing a Pixel with benchmarks has rarely boosted the sales of Tensor-powered Pixel devices in the past, the new embargo suggests the current situation is quite serious. However, Google has yet to clarify which component is being examined. The Pixel series has generally been praised for its dependability, although it has encountered some problems. For example, an urgent firmware update for the Pixel 4A was rolled out earlier this year to tackle battery overheating issues. The Pixel 8 also received extended warranty coverage for display defects, and the Pixel 4A 5G faced touchscreen glitches after a software update in 2021.

    Impressive Features Await

    The Pixel 9A is outfitted with the largest battery (5,100mAh) seen in any Google phone so far, promising excellent performance and battery life. Unlike the Pixel 8a, the Pixel 9a is strategically positioned, and the Pixel 9 doesn’t seem to offer a notably better option for most users compared to how the Pixel 8 did last year. Furthermore, the Pixel 9a is distinctive with its completely flush camera island. However, those eager for the latest budget-friendly Pixel will need to wait a bit longer—about a month more.

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  • Pixel 9a Lacks Key Hardware Upgrade of Other Pixel 9 Models

    Pixel 9a Lacks Key Hardware Upgrade of Other Pixel 9 Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 9a is a budget smartphone priced at $499, powered by the same Tensor G4 chip as other Pixel models.
    2. The Pixel 9a uses the Exynos Modem 5300, which is older and has previously led to connectivity issues in the Pixel 7 series.
    3. The Exynos Modem 5400, used in higher-end Pixel models, offers improved battery life, better cellular reception, and supports newer connectivity standards.
    4. Google’s decision to use the older modem in the Pixel 9a may be to keep costs down and maintain the same launch price as the Pixel 8a.
    5. There are concerns about the Pixel 9a’s performance regarding network connectivity, battery longevity, and thermal management due to its modem choice.

    Google has just revealed the Pixel 9a, which is their new budget smartphone starting at $499. This phone runs on the same Tensor G4 chip as the other Pixel models, but it does have a significant drop in connectivity. Specifically, it features the Exynos Modem 5300, unlike the Modem 5400 that powers the other smartphones in the lineup.

    Modem Concerns

    It’s worth noting that this modem was also used in the Pixel 7 series, which struggled with weak cellular signals. The older modem is also tied to the poor battery performance and overheating issues found in the Pixel 7 devices. With the switch to the Exynos Modem 5400, Google improved many issues, and the other Pixel 9 models (512 GB Pixel 9 Pro currently listed at $919 on Amazon) seem to be performing better than their earlier versions.

    Enhancements in Connectivity

    Besides better battery life and cellular reception, the Exynos Modem 5400 comes with additional upgrades. It supports the latest 3GPP Release 17 standard, allowing for satellite connectivity, and it offers significantly higher peak download speeds than its predecessor.

    Samsung asserts that the Exynos Modem 5400 provides enhanced stability and greater efficiency compared to the previous model. However, it’s uncertain how the newly launched Pixel 9a will perform in terms of network connectivity, battery longevity, and thermal management due to these changes.

    Pricing Decisions

    As for why Google might have chosen to stick with an older modem, it likely relates to maintaining the Pixel 9a’s launch price at the same level as the Pixel 8a. To give you a bit more context, the Exynos Modem 5400 uses Fan-out Panel Level Packaging (FOPLP), which is thinner and more efficient than the previous version but also comes with a higher price tag.

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  • Google Pixel 9a Launch Delayed Over Quality Concerns

    Google Pixel 9a Launch Delayed Over Quality Concerns

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a has been announced but will not be available for pre-order until April due to quality concerns.
    2. A specific quality issue has been found in a small number of already made Pixel 9a devices, but details remain undisclosed.
    3. The Pixel 9a is priced cheaper than the Pixel 9, featuring a 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED display and a 5,100mAh battery.
    4. The device will receive seven years of OS software updates and has a water-resistant design.
    5. The camera setup includes a 48 MP main camera and a 13 MP selfie camera, with some compromises compared to the Pixel 9.

    Google has revealed the Pixel 9a today, but you can’t place an order just yet. The mid-range smartphone is expected to be available in April, which is a bit surprising since Google usually allows pre-orders right after announcing new Pixel models. According to reports from The Verge, Google stated that the Pixel 9a was initially meant to ship this month.

    Delay Due to Quality Concerns

    The company has encountered a quality issue with a specific part of the smartphone, which is said to have impacted a small number of Pixel 9a devices already made. However, Google hasn’t disclosed which exact part is the problem or how many units are affected. Besides the postponed release, this quality concern also means that test samples will be sent out later than anticipated. Journalists have not received any Pixel 9a phones yet, so it may take a while before the first reviews come out.

    Pricing and Specs Comparison

    The Google Pixel 9a is marketed as a more affordable option compared to the Pixel 9, which is currently priced at $639 on Amazon. This “budget Pixel” features the same 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED display with a peak brightness of 2,700 nits, powered by the Google Tensor G4 ARM chipset. The battery of the Pixel 9a is even slightly bigger at 5,100mAh. Google promises seven years of OS software updates and a water-resistant design. There are some compromises in terms of the camera setup, as the Pixel 9a comes with a 48 MP f/1.7 main camera that has a smaller 1/2 inch sensor, along with a 13 MP f/2.2 selfie camera featuring a 1/3.1 inch sensor.

    Conclusion

    In summary, while the Pixel 9a has been announced, potential buyers will need to wait for its release in April due to unexpected quality issues. The device aims to provide a budget-friendly alternative to the more expensive Pixel 9, maintaining many similar features but with some trade-offs in camera performance.

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    Google Pixel 9a Launch Delayed Over Quality Concerns

     

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  • Google Pixel 9a Launching Next Month with Extended Software Support

    Google Pixel 9a Launching Next Month with Extended Software Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has launched the Pixel 9a, seven months after the Pixel 9 series, featuring a streamlined design.
    2. The Pixel 9a includes a 48 MP main camera and a 13 MP ultra-wide camera, with a nearly flush camera setup.
    3. It offers advanced AI camera features like ‘Best Shot’ and ‘Add Me’, powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset.
    4. The device has a 6.3-inch 120 Hz OLED display with a resolution of 1080p and high peak brightness.
    5. The Pixel 9a starts at $499 for 128 GB storage, includes a 5,100 mAh battery, and promises 7 OS upgrades starting with Android 15.

    Google has at last introduced the Pixel 9a, seven months after launching the Pixel 9 series with flagship models like the Pixel 9 Pro (currently priced at $849 on Amazon). As anticipated, the fresh Pixel A device features a more streamlined design when compared to the Pixel 8a, which is still quite new.

    Camera Innovations

    With the Pixel 9a, Google has opted for a nearly flush camera setup. To achieve this sleek look, the company has equipped the phone with a 48 MP main camera that has a 1/2-inch optical format and an f/1.7 aperture, falling short in specs compared to the one found in the Pixel 9. This is also true for the ultra-wide camera, which delivers 13 MP resolution with a 1/1.31-inch optical format and an f/2.2 aperture.

    AI Features and Display

    Despite these differences, Google maintains its commitment to offering a range of AI camera functionalities, including ‘Best Shot’ and ‘Add Me’, which combines several photos into one group image. The Pixel 9a is powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chipset and boasts a 120 Hz OLED screen that spans 6.3 inches, providing a resolution of 1080p and a peak brightness of 1,800 nits, or 2,700 nits for HDR content.

    Battery and Pricing Details

    On top of that, Google has incorporated a 5,100 mAh battery that is capable of both wireless charging and 30 W wired charging through a USB 3.2 Type-C port. The starting price for the Pixel 9a is $499 for 128 GB of storage, but it goes up to $599 for double the storage while maintaining the same 8 GB of RAM. Google plans to start selling the Pixel 9a next month, with a promise of 7 OS upgrades beginning from Android 15.

    Google Pixel 9a Launching Next Month with Extended Software SupportGoogle Pixel 9a Launching Next Month with Extended Software Support
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  • Google Pixel 9a Beats Samsung Galaxy A56 in Benchmark Tests

    Google Pixel 9a Beats Samsung Galaxy A56 in Benchmark Tests

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a is launching soon and has been benchmarked on AnTuTu and Geekbench, showing strong performance.
    2. It is expected to feature the Tensor G4 chip, achieving significant scores: 1,530 (single-core) and 3,344 (multi-core) on Geekbench, and 1,049,844 on AnTuTu.
    3. The benchmark results for the Pixel 9a align with those of the Pixel 9 series, despite the Geekbench scores being lower than previous models.
    4. The Pixel 9a reportedly outperforms the Galaxy A56, making it a competitive option in the mid-range smartphone market.
    5. The Tensor chipsets have faced criticism for flagship models, but the Pixel 9a’s performance suggests it holds its own against similarly priced competitors.

    Google is reportedly preparing to launch its mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 9a, in just a few days. Recently, the device was seen in real life and has undergone tests on well-known benchmarking platforms AnTuTu and Geekbench, showing performance that surpasses a close competitor, the Galaxy A56.

    Performance Insights

    As noted by Sahil Karoul, the Pixel 9a is likely to feature the same Tensor G4 chip found in the Pixel 9 (buy on Amazon) series. It achieved a score of 1,530 in the single-core test and 3,344 in the multi-core test on Geekbench 6. On AnTuTu, the phone finished with an impressive total score of 1,049,844, which includes a CPU score of 260,567 and a GPU score of 434,441.

    Benchmark Comparisons

    Interestingly, while the AnTuTu results for the Pixel 9a align with the performance we observed for the Pixel 9 series, the Geekbench scores seem to be lower than expected. In previous evaluations of the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the Tensor G4 consistently scored around 1,925 and 5,674 on the single-core and multi-core tests, respectively. It’s important to mention, though, that the Pixel 9a was tested with pre-release software, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions.

    Competition Analysis

    The Tensor chipsets from Google often face criticism for not performing as well as their MediaTek and Qualcomm rivals; but this seems to be a concern primarily for the Pixel flagship models. In the case of the Pixel 9a, the benchmark scores suggest it outperforms a similarly priced competitor like the Galaxy A56. According to reviews from GSMArena, the Samsung mid-range device scored 1,364 and 3,899 on Geekbench 6, with an overall AnTuTu score of 908,689.

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    Google Pixel 9a Beats Samsung Galaxy A56 in Benchmark TestsGoogle Pixel 9a Beats Samsung Galaxy A56 in Benchmark Tests
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