The Google Pixel 9a presents an intriguing blend of midrange capabilities, familiar Android features, and a strong camera setup, all for a reasonable price of $500. While it doesn't reach the performance levels or premium feel of the flagship Pixel 9 models, most users may find the differences negligible, particularly in everyday use. One notable advantage includes seven years of Android updates and security patches. However, it does lack some advanced AI functionalities, which might affect power users more than the average consumer.
I've had the latest Pixel gizmo in my man-claws for a couple o' weeks now, thanks to a loaner review unit provided by Google. You can find plenty of piece-by-piece reviews out on the web if you're interested, but the short version is that using the Pixel 9a by and large feels like using any other recent Pixel phone - with the same delightfully unmuddled Android experience, the same smart calling enhancements and other thoughtful features, and the same exceptional camera setup (broadly speaking).
The Pixel 9a also lacks some of its higher-end siblings' AI capabilities, but - sorry, Google - most of that will be of little to no practical consequence for most of us. The only thing I actually miss is the Pixel 9's barely-mentioned system for setting simple reminders around screenshots, which I've really come to appreciate and rely on.
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