While Google has not yet introduced the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro to the market, there is already buzz about an affordable counterpart—Pixel 8a. Expected to make its debut at Google's I/O event next year, details about this intriguing device have started to emerge. Here's what we know so far.
An unidentified Google smartphone, codenamed Akita, appeared on the Geekbench website, leading many to speculate that this could be the Pixel 8a. According to a report by MySmartPrice, and consistent with previous reports, this device is likely the Pixel 8a.
The Geekbench listing reveals that the Pixel 8a will feature an underclocked version of the Tensor G3 chipset. This processor will be supported by the Mali-G715 GPU, promising potentially solid performance for a budget phone.
Listed alongside the Tensor G3 chipset is 8GB of RAM, making it comparable to several other mid-range phones in the market. The device is also expected to run on Android 14, the latest version of Google's operating system, enhancing the user experience and software compatibility.
When it comes to performance benchmarks, the Pixel 8a seems promising. The device clocked in a single-core score of 1,218 and a multi-core score of 3,175 on Geekbench. These figures give us preliminary insight into the device's processing capabilities.
The launch of the Pixel 8a is somewhat uncertain, as some reports suggest that Google may transition to a two-year cycle for its A-series phones. Furthermore, tipster Yogesh Brar suggested that Google might discontinue the A-series altogether, implying that Pixel 7a could be the last of its kind.
However, without official confirmation and with the Pixel 8a's launch still on the horizon, it may be prudent to wait for more details.