The Google Pixel 9a design has been leaked and it doesn't look like the Pixel 9 – that we know

The Google Pixel 9 series has been out for just over a month, but we're already starting to see leaks about the Pixel 9a – Google Pixel's mid-range smartphone for 2025. Alleged renders of what appears to be the Pixel 9a have surfaced . Courtesy of OnLeaks and Android Headlines. The rendering confirms previous leaks that suggest the Pixel 9a could ditch the Pixel 9 series' camera module in favor of a flat module – departing from the unique aesthetic that Google has maintained for the Pixel range over the past few generations .

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Not a pill-shaped camera module – but it could be a good thing

If the Pixel 9a doesn't have the protruding pill-shaped camera module of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro models, that would mean the camera might be flush with the back or just protrude slightly. This could improve the durability of the phone and reduce users' anxiety about protecting the large lens glass area of ​​the newer models. In fact, a significant market has emerged for protecting the Pixel 9's large camera module, with tempered glass and protective films readily available.

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Since there is no camera bump, using the device when placed flat on a tablet would not be an inconvenience. The Pixel 9 series already barely wobbles on the table with its symmetrical camera bump on the back, and the Pixel 9a could improve on that.

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When is the Pixel 9a coming and what can we expect?

Google Pixel 9a, which may be the last phone with a Samsung-made Tensor chipset, is expected to be released around Google I/O, which usually takes place in May. What to expect is that the Pixel 9a will likely feature the same Tensor G4 chipset as the Pixel 9 series, but with modifications to the modem. Additionally, the device may feature a polycarbonate back like the Pixel 8a to keep costs down. The Pixel 9a is also expected to have Google Gemini features and could end up being one of the cheapest phones to offer Google's AI capabilities.

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