Google Pixel 8a release leaves fans with mixed reactions

Google has officially taken the wraps off the Pixel 8a after months of leaks and rumors that turned out to be fairly accurate. The Pixel 8a is now up for pre-order through the Google Store and other partner e-commerce websites. The phone will be available to purchase on May 14. That said, judging by the initial reactions to the release of the Pixel 8a, it seems not many fans are happy about it. Many tech enthusiasts and Pixel users have taken to platforms like Reddit and X to share their dissatisfaction with Google’s new mid-ranger. However, there are some fans who think the Pixel 8a is still a great value-for-money smartphone.

After reading several dozen comments about the Pixel 8a, I’ve concluded that a majority of fans and enthusiasts are unhappy with the pricing. While the Pixel 8a retains the same launch price as the Pixel 7a, it’s not the same everywhere. In countries like India, the phone has received a significant price bump. The device is on sale for INR 52,999 which puts roughly it at the $635 mark when converted. The Pixel 7a was priced at INR 39,999 ($479), discounted from the INR 43,999 ($527) retail price. Naturally, this has led to tech enthusiasts criticizing Google. Here are some reactions:

But it’s not just fans in India disappointed with the release. MKBHD’s initial impressions video was rightfully mentioned “Just get the 8!” in the title. The Pixel 8 is often available at around the $549 price point which puts it up against the Pixel 8a. Paying $50 gets you a more premium smartphone with arguably better cameras.

Many other also agree with the sentiment. However, it’s worth pointing out that Google is no longer running any discounts on the Pixel 8. The Google Store currently lists the Pixel 8 for its launch price of $699. It’s clear that even Google knows the Pixel 8 is a no-brainer at $549 and it would cannibalize the sales of the Pixel 8a. So don’t expect to see a drop in the price of the Pixel 8 on the Google Store for a while. But you might find great deals from third-party retailers.

That said, there are some fans who still recommend getting the Pixel 8a.

The Google Pixel 8a is powered by the latest Google Tensor G3 chip and features many of the same AI features as the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, including Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser, and more. It has a curvy new design, a matte back, and an aluminum frame. Google claims the new Actua display is 40% brighter than Pixel 7a’s and has a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling. It comes in four colors: Aloe, Bay, Obsidian, and Porcelain. There’s also a larger storage capacity option at 256 GB.

The phone retains the Pixel 7a’s rear camera with a 64-megapixel main lens and a 13-megapixel ultrawide lens. Similarly, it holds on to the 13-megapixel front-facing camera too. It also includes Super Res Zoom up to 8x and features like Magic Eraser, Night Sight, and Photo Unblur.

So now that the Google Pixel 8a is officially up for pre-order and will go on sale soon, are you going to buy the new mid-ranger or will you skip it? Let me know in the comments section below.