Google Pixel phones have been getting good reviews from critics and buyers alike, and people who are considering a switch to Google phones are waiting for the next release. There are already rumors surrounding the succeeding model, and it might just encourage more users to try the brand out.
120 Hz Refresh Rate in Pixel 8a
The refresh rate in the Google Pixel 7a and 8 were already decent with up to 90 Hz for the former and between 60 to 120 Hz for the latter. With the upcoming model, users might finally get a fixed 120 Hz for the display.
According to a source, Kamila Wojciechowska, the Pixel 8a will also be featuring a 2400×1080 OLED panel that will be 6.1-inch in size, as well as an improved 1,400 nits brightness. These upgrades put the Pixel phones closer in quality to its flagship competitors.
The camera loadout is said to be similar to the 7a, just like its screen size, but it will be equipped with Google's latest processor, the Google Tensor G3 chip. It's the same chip that Pixel 8 already uses, although there is a downside.
According to Ars Technica, the Pixel 8a might use a cheaper and hotter silicon packing method, which means that the phone might experience thermal changes more quickly, which can affect the performance of the device overall.
For those who don't want to be limited to a 6.1-inch screen, the latest Google phone is also rumored to support DisplayPort, which allows users to display their phone's screen through a monitor using a USB-C cord.
The DisplayPort alternate mode has already been enabled on Pixel 8 in one of the new Android betas. The only difference is that Pixel 8a might already have the feature enabled once the phone has been set up.
Google is expected to announce the release of the Pixel 8a during its Google I/O event, which will take place on May 14th. For now, all we can do is rely on rumors, but it's more than likely that Google will add more features to encourage users to get the latest model.
Is the Pixel 8 Still Worth It After 8a?
Since the next-generation model is already slated for release, previous models are already expected to reduce costs. The Pixel 7a is still sold at its original price, but the Pixel 6a's price has gone down since the Pixel 7a was released.
Based on that timetable, the release of the Pixel 8a might affect the price of the 7a, but the Pixel 8 might remain the same. It would still be the cheaper option, especially if the rumors are true about the Pixel 8a costing $549 at release.
The Pixel 8 will have a slightly bigger display dimension than the Pixel 8a at 6.2 inches, and it already has support for DisplayPort as well. You might even find it better if the rumored thermal difference is accurate, as the Pixel 8 also has the same Google Tensor 3 processor.
