9to5Google
By Andrew Romero
November 16, 2021
The Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro were absolute hits. The clean feel of Android 12 paired with some high-end hardware makes for a great device to have, especially when you take into consideration the price at only $599 for the Pixel 6 128GB model.
But even at that incredible price, Google is already looking at putting something even more affordable to put into people's hands.
That phone is the Pixel 6a.
Release date
If we have learned anything from past Pixel releases, it's that we know nothing. We only know that Google might release the Pixel 6a sometime in May 2022. If not, we could also expect to see the new device launch in August of 2022. This is based on past releases of the Pixel 3a and Pixel 5a.
How big will the Pixel 6a be?
It looks like the main difference between the Pixel 6a and Pixel 6/6 Pro is overall size. Based on CAD renders, it seems as though the Pixel 6a will house a 6.2-inch display based on its size, coming in at 152.2 x 71.8 x 8.7mm. This is fantastic news for Pixel 6 users who feel like the screen size of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro is too large for comfort.
The Google Pixel 6a camera
While many were hoping that the new Pixel 6a will house the same incredible 50MP sensor found in the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, that doesn't seem to be the case. According to information uncovered by our APK Insight team, the Pixel 6a will be armed with something a little smaller.
The Google Pixel 6a camera cont'd
The Pixel 6a will house a Sony IMX363 sensor coming in at 12.2-megapixels. Other than the downgrade in the sensor's ability to capture more data, the IMX363 is physically smaller than the 50MP GN1 sensor on the Pixel 6. This means that beautiful natural bokeh directly resulting from being able to capture more light probably won't make its way to the Pixel 6a. The two other sensors - the ultrawide and selfie camera - will be the same as on the Pixel 6.
Pixel 6a specs
The Pixel 6a is expected to take design cues directly from the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. The body - based on leaks alone - seems to have the same glass back and metal sides we love on the Pixel 6. Along with that comes the camera bump that expands from edge to edge. It also looks like the Pixel 6a will house an in-display fingerprint sensor like the Pixel 6, for better or for worse. In these renders, another surprising change is the lack of a 3.5mm audio jack, meaning Bluetooth will be prioritized.
Tensor!
While the Pixel 6a will get a camera downgrade, the area where the Pixel 6 series draws its power will remain the same; the processor. The Google Pixel 6a will house Google's Tensor GS101 chip. This means that all of the incredible algorithms and processes that the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are capable of will also find a home on the Pixel 6a. Features such as Google Assistant voice typing and Live Translation will likely also be key selling points on the Pixel 6a.