The upcoming Google Pixel 9a is sparking interest as rumors point to a major design overhaul. Reports suggest that the Pixel 9a may abandon the iconic camera bar, camera pill, or even a camera bump entirely. If these leaks hold true, the newest Pixel device could lie perfectly flat on any surface, marking a significant departure from Google’s previous designs. Additionally, this new model may be the first Pixel phone to launch with Android 15.

New design could be the most significant departure since Pixel 6

The latest leak from OnLeaks, shared by Android Headlines, reveals that the Pixel 9a could adopt a strikingly different design compared to past Pixel devices. According to the renders, the phone’s back panel will be completely flat, with twin inset lenses and a flash in a small housing. This minimalist design could eliminate the traditional camera bar seen in previous models.

While the Pixel 9 series moved to a pill-shaped cutout for its cameras, the Pixel 9a seems to simplify things even further. The device is rumored to closely resemble the base Pixel 9 but without the elongated section for lenses. The removal of a camera bump or pill gives the phone a cleaner, smoother look that could make it feel more streamlined when held.

Possible hardware upgrades could enhance the budget-friendly device

The Pixel 9a could ship with Android 15, making it the first Pixel model to do so, according to speculation. Alongside this software upgrade, the newest Pixel may feature the same 6.1-inch display as its predecessor, the Pixel 8a. While official details are scarce, experts predict that the phone will likely include Google’s Tensor G4 chip, an upgrade from the Tensor G3 found in the previous generation.

In terms of camera quality, the Pixel 9a could see some advancements. The Pixel 8a featured a 64 MP wide-angle camera and a 13 MP ultrawide sensor, both of which are expected to carry over to the 9a with possible improvements. With Google’s focus on AI and computational photography, the 9a could offer even better photo processing capabilities.

Additionally, the Pixel 9a might maintain the same 8 GB of RAM, which seems to be the baseline for handling the AI-driven features Google is promoting, including its Gemini AI model for mobile. The increased focus on AI in mobile devices highlights the need for robust hardware, and Google appears set to meet those demands.

Budget-conscious consumers may find a solid option with the Pixel 9a

Google has been consistent in keeping its budget devices affordable, and the new Pixel phone could follow the same pricing strategy as its predecessor. The Pixel 8a launched with a price tag of around $500, making it a solid choice for users who want many of the features found in the flagship models without paying premium prices.

The Pixel 9a could launch at a similar price, making it an attractive option for those who are comfortable with lower storage capacities and fewer premium features. For many consumers, the affordable price combined with seven years of promised software updates makes the Pixel 9a a compelling choice in the budget smartphone market.

Launch details could mirror past Pixel releases

Google unveiled the Pixel 8a at its annual I/O developer conference earlier this year in May, and the Pixel 9a could follow a similar release schedule. If the company continues with this trend, the Pixel 9a might be revealed at the I/O conference in 2025. Given the consistent launch patterns, it wouldn’t be surprising if Google sticks with the base $500 price point.

While official details remain under wraps, the rumored design and hardware improvements suggest that the Pixel 9a could be a significant upgrade over its predecessor. With the potential to launch alongside Android 15 and feature Google’s latest innovations, the Pixel 9a could set new standards in the budget smartphone space.