Tag: Pixel 9a

  • Samsung Galaxy A56 Launches in US at $499.99 with No Extras

    Samsung Galaxy A56 Launches in US at $499.99 with No Extras

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy A56 5G is now available in the US, marking its significance as the first model in the A series to be released here after the A55 5G was not.
    2. Pricing for the Galaxy A56 5G starts at $499.99 for the 128GB model and $549.99 for the 256GB model, with no special offers from Samsung except for a discount on Galaxy Buds FE.
    3. The phone is available in Lightgray and Graphite colors, with Amazon offering an additional Olive color option.
    4. The Galaxy A56 5G competes in a crowded mid-range market against devices like the Pixel 9a and OnePlus 13R, which have similar pricing.
    5. Key features include a premium design with Gorilla Glass Victus+, an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, and a commitment from Samsung for 6 OS updates and 6 years of security patches.

    Last month, news surfaced that the Galaxy A56 5G would soon be released in the US. That information has now been confirmed, as the smartphone is currently for sale through Samsung and various retail partners.

    Important US Launch

    The arrival of the Galaxy A56 5G in the United States is significant, especially since the previous model, the Galaxy A55 5G, wasn’t released here. Many thought the same would happen with the A56 since it has been on sale in other markets since March.

    Purchase Details and Pricing

    Interestingly, Samsung is not providing any special offers for customers who buy the Galaxy A56 from its website, except for a 40% discount on the Galaxy Buds FE. The phone comes in two configurations: a 128GB model priced at $499.99 and a 256GB model available for $549.99. Both options include 8GB of RAM.

    The Galaxy A56 5G is offered in two colors, Lightgray and Graphite, despite being introduced in four shades. Additionally, Amazon sells the phone at the same price as Samsung, but with an extra color option: Olive.

    Competitive Market Landscape

    Samsung’s latest mid-range device is entering a crowded market, competing with devices like the Pixel 9a, which starts at $499.99 for the base 128GB model, going up to $599 for the 256GB version. The OnePlus 13R is also a contender, currently priced at $532.89 on Amazon (down from $599.99) for the 12GB RAM and 256GB model.

    Features and Upgrades

    There’s plenty to appreciate about the Galaxy A56 5G. Its premium design features Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both sides along with an aluminum frame, and it boasts an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. Our review highlighted improvements in the selfie camera, overall performance, and battery life, which outshine its predecessor.

    Samsung has also committed to providing 6 OS updates and 6 years of security patches for the Galaxy A56 5G, rivaled only by the Pixel 9a in this segment, which is set to receive 7 years of both OS and security updates.

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  • Google Pixel 9a vs. Samsung Galaxy A56: Which is the Better Choice?

    Google Pixel 9a vs. Samsung Galaxy A56: Which is the Better Choice?

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a with Tensor G4 shows throttling during heavy use, while the Galaxy A56 achieves better frames per second despite a slower SoC.
    2. The Pixel 9a has slightly better battery life due to a larger capacity, but the A56 charges faster and lacks wireless charging.
    3. The Pixel 9a supports one nano SIM and one eSIM, while the Galaxy A56 offers more flexibility with two nano SIMs and two eSIMs options.
    4. Samsung provides clear transparency about its AI features, allowing users to disable cloud features on the Galaxy A56.
    5. The Galaxy A56 is more budget-friendly, priced €190 less than the Pixel 9a for the 256GB variant.

    When you think about performance, you might assume that the Pixel 9a with its Tensor G4 has a clear advantage. However, when pushed to its limits during heavy use and gaming, it experiences noticeable throttling. This results in the Galaxy A56, despite having a generally slower SoC, achieving a better frames per second rate.

    Battery Comparison

    In terms of battery life, the Pixel does have a slight edge, but this is likely due to its larger battery capacity. Conversely, the A56 charges more quickly, but it does not support wireless charging. Regarding the camera quality, the Google device is undoubtedly superior.

    SIM Card Capabilities

    The differences in SIM card options are also important to consider. Google provides one nano SIM and one eSIM, while the European version of the Samsung Galaxy A56 offers support for two Nano SIMs, two eSIMs, or even a mix of both. This flexibility can be very beneficial, especially for those who travel frequently. Moreover, One UI includes a dual messenger feature, allowing users to have a second version of apps, such as WhatsApp.

    Transparency and Pricing

    Furthermore, Samsung’s phone excels in transparency. This is particularly clear in how it communicates its AI features, clearly outlining which ones operate in the cloud and which are processed locally on the device. Additionally, users have the option to completely disable cloud features on the Galaxy A56.

    Finally, Samsung’s pricing is also more appealing, with the 256GB variant of the Galaxy A56 priced at €190 less than the Google Pixel 9a (starting at $488 on Amazon) at the time of this writing, especially in Germany.

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  • Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Launch in the US Imminent

    Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Launch in the US Imminent

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung will not release the Galaxy A55 5G in the US, continuing with the trend seen with the Galaxy A54 5G.
    2. A report indicates that Samsung is developing firmware for the US variant of the Galaxy A56 5G, model number ‘SM-A566U1’.
    3. There is no official release date for the Galaxy A56 5G, but it will face strong competition upon launch.
    4. The expected starting price for the Galaxy A56 5G is around $499.99, competing with similar models like the Pixel 9a and Nothing Phone (3a) Pro.
    5. Samsung plans to attract buyers through launch discounts and pre-order incentives for the Galaxy A56 5G.

    The Galaxy A54 5G was the final model in the Galaxy A5x series available in the US, and even though it did well, Samsung decided against releasing the Galaxy A55 5G there. It appears this trend continues with the Galaxy A56 5G, especially since models like the Galaxy A16 5G, Galaxy A26 5G, and Galaxy A36 5G are on sale in the US. However, a new report suggests that the Galaxy A56 might see an official launch in the US in the future.

    Development of the Firmware

    A report from GSMArena, quoting anonymous sources, indicates that Samsung has started working on firmware for the US variant of the Galaxy A56. This version is said to carry the model number ‘SM-A566U1’. Unfortunately, there’s no details regarding when the smartphone will be officially revealed. Regardless of the announcement timing, the Galaxy A56 will encounter stiff competition upon its release.

    Pricing Expectations

    The Galaxy A36 is priced at $399.99, so it is anticipated that the Galaxy A56 5G will have a starting price of no less than $499.99. At this price point, it will have to compete with products like the Pixel 9a, which also starts at $499 but currently sells for $449 on Amazon. Additionally, the Nothing Phone (3a) Pro is available for direct purchase from Nothing at $459.

    Strategies to Attract Buyers

    It is hoped that Samsung can attract customers by offering a mix of launch discounts and pre-order incentives that will make the Galaxy A56 appealing to potential buyers.

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  • Google Pixel 9a Teardown Reveals Design Issues: “Do Not Buy” Warning

    Google Pixel 9a Teardown Reveals Design Issues: “Do Not Buy” Warning

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a is a budget-friendly smartphone priced at $499.99, designed to attract users to the Pixel ecosystem.
    2. Despite using cheaper materials like a plastic back and Gorilla Glass 3, the Pixel 9a performed well in durability tests.
    3. The phone’s battery is glued to the frame, making replacement difficult and potentially hazardous.
    4. The outdated battery attachment method lacks modern pull tab adhesives, complicating disassembly.
    5. Google’s choice of battery design is surprising given their partnership with iFixit, which promotes easier repairability.

    Google’s Pixel 9a smartphone offers a budget-friendly way to enter the Pixel ecosystem, with Google making some cuts on materials and internal components to reduce the price to $499.99. Even with a plastic back, a Gorilla Glass 3 display, and a simpler design, the Pixel 9a has shown great performance during JerryRigEverything’s tough durability tests recently shared on YouTube.

    Disassembly Findings

    After putting the midrange phone through its paces for durability, Zach Nelson, the creator of the channel, proceeded to take the phone apart. During the disassembly, he found out that Google is using an outdated method to attach the battery to the phone’s case. Unlike many modern devices, including Apple iPhones, the Pixel 9a lacks adhesive strips with pull tabs that make battery removal easier. Instead, the battery in the Pixel 9a is glued to the frame, and while there are pull tabs present, they couldn’t get past the strong adhesive during Nelson’s video.

    Difficult Battery Replacements

    As a result of this battery adhesion system, replacing the battery of the Pixel 9a becomes quite challenging and potentially hazardous. The battery is stuck firmly to the case, and the glue does not budge even with an isopropyl alcohol solution, leading Nelson to forcibly detach the battery. This task might have been safer with tools like a guitar string or piano wire, but the best solution would have been for the manufacturer to design the battery for easier removal.

    What’s particularly interesting is that Google opted for this less-than-ideal battery removal method, even though they have a partnership with iFixit, which advocates strongly for the right to repair movement.

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  • Android 15 Update Now Available for Many Pixel Devices

    Android 15 Update Now Available for Many Pixel Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16 is expected to be released soon, likely this quarter.
    2. The May 2025 update is being rolled out to all devices with Google Tensor chipsets, except the Pixel 9a.
    3. The update includes three key bug fixes, including improvements to microphone recording quality and Bluetooth pairing issues.
    4. The updates provide May 2025 Android security patches for devices starting from the Pixel 6.
    5. A bootloader update is included for Pixel 6 and Pixel 8 models, preventing downgrades to earlier Android versions.

    Google is soon to release Android 16, with many expecting it to happen this quarter. In the meantime, the tech giant has begun distributing its May 2025 update, which is available for all devices that use Google Tensor chipsets.

    Update Details

    Currently, all devices except for the Pixel 9a will be getting the update labeled BP1A.250505.005. Interestingly, Google is sending out a different update, BD4A.250505.003, to the newest mid-range phone, which is priced at $499 on Amazon. This update does not seem to have any specific changes for the Pixel 9a.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    According to a support announcement from Google, all devices eligible for this update will get three important bug fixes. One of these fixes addresses an issue that led to poor microphone recording quality in some applications. The updates, BP1A.250505.005 and BD4A.250505.003, should also resolve Bluetooth pairing problems with certain smartwatches, although Google has not shared more details on that. Furthermore, the updates fix a bug that occasionally caused a secondary language to show up in quick settings tiles.

    Security Patches and Bootloader Updates

    The updates also include the May 2025 Android security patches for devices starting from the Pixel 6. Additionally, BP1A.250505.005 introduces a bootloader update for all Pixel 6 and Pixel 8 models, meaning these devices cannot be reverted to an older Android version once the update is applied. Mishaal Rahman has cautioned that trying to downgrade could cause the device to become unusable. For more information, check Google’s special instructions below and the related developer post.

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    Android 15 Update Now Available for Many Pixel Devices
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  • 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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