Google (GOOGL, Financial) has unveiled its redesigned budget smartphone, the Pixel 9a, featuring upgraded processor and battery life, priced from TWD 16,490. This aligns with last year's Pixel 8a pricing, though the release date in Taiwan is still unannounced. Within a month of Apple's (AAPL) iPhone 16e launch, Google introduces the Pixel 9a, intensifying market competition. The Pixel 9a is TWD 5,410 cheaper than the iPhone 16e, with comparable specifications but a superior camera according to reports.
Despite gaining traction for its AI features and integration with Google services, Google's Pixel phones have struggled to compete in the high-end market dominated by Apple and Samsung. However, budget models have helped Google gradually expand its market share. IDC data indicates that Google achieved its highest ever smartphone sales in the third quarter of last year.
Featuring new design elements similar to last year's high-end Pixel 9, the Pixel 9a omits the previous model's camera bump and incorporates two rear cameras: a 48MP main lens and a 13MP ultra-wide lens. Although the main lens resolution has decreased from 64MP on the Pixel 8a, Google claims improved light intake and added macro focus mode. The display has increased from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches, outperforming the iPhone 16e's 6.1-inch display. Additionally, the Pixel 9a's screen achieves 2,700 nits of outdoor brightness, improving over 8a's 2,000 nits, with battery life extending from 24 to 30 hours and up to 100 hours in power-saving mode.
The Pixel 9a offers four color options—Obsidian Black, Ceramic White, Iris Purple, and Strawberry Pink—with starting storage of 128GB and a 256GB variant. It debuts Google's next-gen Tensor G4 processor and enhances dust and water resistance to IP68 from IP67. The Pixel 9a highlights Google's competitive edge in the budget smartphone market, particularly in its direct competition with the iPhone 16e, further broadening its influence in the global phone market.
