Google is expected to launch its Pixel 9a earlier than usual this year. The next-gen affordable Pixel phone will have some interesting improvements in key areas. One of the aspects where it will differ the most from previous models is the design. Recent leaks have revealed that the company will be betting much more on minimalism. A new hands-on video shows how the Pixel 9a looks in the real world.
Our set of leaked renders revealed the final design of the Pixel 9a. However, the renders make the phone look a bit more premium than it looks in hand. The latest hands-on video shows a device that, at first glance, gives the impression of being “cheap” and not in the best of ways.
Hands-on video confirms what the Google Pixel 9a will look like
The Pixel 9a shown in the hands-on video is in Obsidian color, one of the four shades in which the phone could be available. The rear cover of the device will be made of plastic, an expected decision considering that Google is looking to reduce costs on this model. However, Shane Craig, who “rescued” the video after its removal from the original source, claims that the handset has a “Nokia Lumia” plastic aesthetic. If you’ve ever owned a Lumia, you’ll remember how solid these devices felt in your hand.
Although the rear cover of the device is made of plastic, the flat frame seems to be made of aluminum. There are antenna lines that are usually present when using metallic materials to avoid problems related to the mobile signal. This will give it an additional touch of robustness and resistance to accidental drops.
Previous “Pixel a” phones sought to look like their more expensive flagships. However, Google seems to be looking for a new approach with the Pixel 9a. The Mountain View giant has completely discarded the rear camera bar of the Pixel 9 lineup. Instead, there’s a small, horizontal, pill-shaped camera island. An LED flash is to the right of the sensors, outside the “dome.” The classic “G” logo is also visible in the central part of the rear area.
The leak doesn’t show the Pixel 9a’s display. However, leaked renders confirmed that it will have chunky bezels. Anyway, there’s a small improvement: all the bezels are now symmetrical.