Google's 'affordable' Pixel 8a may not be so affordable after all
Google's Pixel phones have always been known for their affordability compared to the flagship models. However, the latest reports suggest that the upcoming Pixel 8a may not be as budget-friendly as its predecessor.
According to a recent report from German outlet WinFuture, the Pixel 8a is expected to retail in Germany for €569.90. This is €70 more than the starting price of the Google Pixel 7a. If we apply a similar increase to the prices in other regions, the Pixel 8a could cost around $549 / £499 / AU$849, considering the higher VAT rates in European countries.
In other words, the Pixel 8a could be approximately $50 / £50 / AU$100 more expensive than the Pixel 7a. This wouldn't be a major concern if Google hadn't already increased the price of the Pixel 7a by the same amount last year.
The high starting price of the Pixel 7a disappointed many users, including ourselves. In our Google Pixel 7a review, we even advised waiting for a price drop. If Google decides to price the Pixel 8a even higher, they might face criticism from customers.
Furthermore, the Pixel 8a will face tough competition upon its launch, expected in May this year. The OnePlus 12R, packed with features, arrived at a price of $499.99 / £649. The Nothing Phone 2a also recently launched at a reasonable price of £319.
Of course, the Pixel 8a will have the advantage of being available globally, including in the US, UK, and Australia. However, Samsung's upcoming Galaxy A55, which is said to be impressive, could steal the spotlight from the Pixel 8a.
Regarding specifications, we expect the Pixel 8a to be powered by Google's Tensor G3 chipset. This should bring some AI features from the Pixel 8 to the more affordable model. Minor improvements in the camera department can also be anticipated.
Leaked images of the Pixel 8a suggest a design that maintains the general look of the Pixel 8 but with curvier corners. The phone will reportedly come in two storage options, 128GB and 256GB, and will be available in four colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Mint.
Will all of this be enough to entice potential buyers to invest in the Pixel 8a? That remains to be seen, but it's safe to say that Google may find it challenging to persuade consumers to choose their new smartphone in a highly competitive market.
According to a recent report from German outlet WinFuture, the Pixel 8a is expected to retail in Germany for €569.90. This is €70 more than the starting price of the Google Pixel 7a. If we apply a similar increase to the prices in other regions, the Pixel 8a could cost around $549 / £499 / AU$849, considering the higher VAT rates in European countries.
In other words, the Pixel 8a could be approximately $50 / £50 / AU$100 more expensive than the Pixel 7a. This wouldn't be a major concern if Google hadn't already increased the price of the Pixel 7a by the same amount last year.
The high starting price of the Pixel 7a disappointed many users, including ourselves. In our Google Pixel 7a review, we even advised waiting for a price drop. If Google decides to price the Pixel 8a even higher, they might face criticism from customers.
Furthermore, the Pixel 8a will face tough competition upon its launch, expected in May this year. The OnePlus 12R, packed with features, arrived at a price of $499.99 / £649. The Nothing Phone 2a also recently launched at a reasonable price of £319.
Of course, the Pixel 8a will have the advantage of being available globally, including in the US, UK, and Australia. However, Samsung's upcoming Galaxy A55, which is said to be impressive, could steal the spotlight from the Pixel 8a.
Regarding specifications, we expect the Pixel 8a to be powered by Google's Tensor G3 chipset. This should bring some AI features from the Pixel 8 to the more affordable model. Minor improvements in the camera department can also be anticipated.
Leaked images of the Pixel 8a suggest a design that maintains the general look of the Pixel 8 but with curvier corners. The phone will reportedly come in two storage options, 128GB and 256GB, and will be available in four colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Mint.
Will all of this be enough to entice potential buyers to invest in the Pixel 8a? That remains to be seen, but it's safe to say that Google may find it challenging to persuade consumers to choose their new smartphone in a highly competitive market.