Pixel 8a: Pricing and release

Kevin Kearney Sr. Staff Writer

Updated 15 May 2024

Different colors available for Google PIxel 8a

Contents

In this guide:

Release date
Price
Cameras
Design and display
Pixel 9

We’re used to hearing about the newest Google smartphone at the company’s annual I/O event, which takes place every May. This year, though, most of the event was dedicated to advancements in Gemini, Google’s homegrown AI, and only featured a few passing references to the Pixel 8a, Google’s newest Android phone, which is now available for sale.

So, what are we supposed to do with Google’s apparent lack of enthusiasm? Are they simply laser-focused on AI? Or does the muted rollout for the Pixel 8a suggest there’s not much to be excited about?

Signs point to the latter, as the Pixel 8a is mostly a mid-range version of its predecessor, the Pixel 8. The Pixel 8a has a slightly smaller display, a smaller battery, and lacks the 8’s Gorilla Glass polished back. Still, all these small distinctions lead to a smaller price tag, starting at just $499. That’s something everyone can get excited about.

Let’s break down some of the other things we learned about the brand-new Pixel 8a.

Pixel 8a release date

The Pixel 8a is now available directly from Google and through many carriers. It was made available for preorder on May 7, 2024 and officially went on sale through Google on May 14, 2024. Carriers like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, and Visible began offering the phone on the same day.

Description	Google's 2024 a-series 5G model powered by Google's newest processor Tensor G3, featuring Android 14, and Dual rear camera 64MP + 13MP
Screen Size	6.1"
Available On	74 Plans from 3 carriers
Available From
Priced From	$10 per month + $499 upfront
	View Full Details

Pixel 8a price

Google's Pixel 8a is available starting at $499. You can also finance the phone through several carriers, which are offering limited-time promotions through switching deals and trade-ins. Most of the deepest Pixel 8a discounts are tied to unlimited plans. You can see some of the cheapest options below:

#1	Ting	Ting Unlimited 25 Plan Unlimited 4G LTE/5G data Available on 2 Major 5G Nationwide networks in select areas with compatible devices Unlimited mobile hotspot data Outright Deal: Get $15 off this plan with Ting internet required. $25.00/mo + $499 Upfront View Plan	$25.00/mo + $499 Upfront	View Plan
#2	Ultra Mobile	Ultra Mobile Unlimited 6-Month Plan Unlimited Unlimited 5G & 4G LTE with no data cap T-Mobile 5G Network in select areas with compatible devices 10GB mobile hotspot data Outright $39.00/mo $234.00 advance payment for 6 months (equals to $39.00/month). + $499 Upfront View Plan	$39.00/mo $234.00 advance payment for 6 months (equals to $39.00/month). + $499 Upfront	View Plan

The Pixel 8a release has led to some low prices on earlier Pixels, including hot deals on last year’s mid-range Google phone, the Pixel 7a. You can see some of the cheapest Pixel 7a plans with unlimited data below:

#1	Page Plus	Page Plus The $55 Plan Unlimited 4G LTE/5G data Available on 1 Major 5G Network in select areas with compatible devices No mobile hotspot data Outright $55.00/mo ($50 with Auto-Refill) + $419.99 Upfront View Plan	$55.00/mo ($50 with Auto-Refill) + $419.99 Upfront	View Plan
#2	Verizon	Verizon Unlimited Welcome Unlimited 5G speeds Verizon 5G Network in select areas with compatible devices No mobile hotspot data Outright Deal: Get $100 Verizon Gift card when you purchased this phone + $10 off this plan $55.00/mo + Taxes & Fees. Price includes AutoPay & Paperless discount. + $589.99 Upfront View Plan	$55.00/mo + Taxes & Fees. Price includes AutoPay & Paperless discount. + $589.99 Upfront	View Plan

Pixel 8a cameras

The Pixel 8a has two rear cameras: a 64 MP Quad PD wide camera and a 13 MP ultrawide camera. The casual photographer won’t notice much of a difference between the photos on a Pixel 8a and a Pixel 8, though more serious aficionados might notice some quality loss, thanks in part to the Pixel 8a’s lack of auto-focus.

Google's Best Take feature allows you to perfect your photo.
Image: Google

Google’s AI-enhanced photography features, like Best Take and Photo Unblur, made the Pixel 8 one of the best handsets for serious photographers. All but one of the photo features from the Pixel 8 also appear on the Pixel 8a. The only missing feature is Macro Focus, which lets Pixel 8 users take sharp close-ups.

Pixel 8a design and display

The Pixel 8a comes in four colors: aloe, bay, obsidian, and porcelain. The Pixel 8a’s display is slightly smaller than the 8, at 6.1”, though its design is nearly identical, with a scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass display and a fingerprint-resistant coating to keep your device looking untarnished, even after you’ve taken it through the ups and downs of your daily life.

The Pixel 8's back features an aluminum matte finish.
Image: Google

The Pixel 8’s encasing was entirely Gorilla Glass, but the Pixel 8a’s back is an aluminum matte. It’ll still look good, though we’re guessing it’ll end up with a few more scuffs than its predecessor.

Pixel 9: What we know

The Pixel 9 has not yet been announced, though rumors suggest it will be released in October. Leakers say the smartphone will feature a 6.24” display, similar cameras to the Pixel 8, and an advanced Google Tensor G4 processor.

Kevin Kearney

Sr. Staff Writer

Kevin is an experienced journalist and writer whose musings on tech, education, and culture have appeared in Stereogum, InsideHook, The Millions, and elsewhere. As a Senior Staff Writer for WhistleOut, he offers unique expertise on the inner workings of the mobile industry, and has a particular passion for emerging efficiencies within smartphone apps.

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