Google Pixel 8a review: Do more with Google AI

The Google Pixel 8a is finally out and includes major spec and software updates, including Google AI along with Google’s latest processor, the Tensor G3.

 Launching as a mid-range counterpart to the flagship Pixel 8 series, the Google Pixel 8a is no slacker in the performance department and is a great Android phone if with an impressive array of stand-out features. Discover more about the new phone with our review.

What’s special about the Google Pixel 8a at a glance? Here’s a comprehensive list of what you can look forward to:

• Google AI
• Faster and more efficient with Google Tensor G3 processor¹
• Dual rear camera system
• Impressive battery life at Typical 4,492mAh capacity²

But in addition to these features, how does the Google Pixel 8a compare to its predecessors and flagship counterpart in the Pixel 8 series? Read on to find out. 

The most obvious comparison to be made with the Google Pixel 8a is the flagship Google Pixel 8 series. Below are the key differentiators between the Pixel 8a and the basic Pixel 8.

If you’re looking for an upgrade from the Google Pixel 7a, the Google Pixel 8a may be a good choice. The main difference between the two phones lies in their performance, with the newer Google Pixel 8a utilising Google’s latest processor – the Google Tensor G3 – and sporting a bigger battery life.

The sizing and camera technology of the two phones are largely the same, although the Google Pixel 8a will release with pre-installed Google AI software.

You can buy the Google Pixel 8a on an eligible SIM plan with Optus and enjoy interest free payments using Optus Pay over 12, 24, or 36 months.

In addition to being around the mid-range price-point, the Google Pixel 8a houses a great camera system that can meet and even exceed all your basic photography and videography needs. Featuring a dual rear camera system with a 64MP wide camera and 13 MP ultrawide, you can shoot clear, quality photos with ease and even dabble in video recording.

The Pixel 8a’s digital Super Res Zoom⁴ also means you can snap the best shots and video record from far away – perfect for concert-goers and outdoor adventurists. Not only can you take amazing photos with the Pixel camera, but you can also do more with the help of Google AI, including editing your photos to create the perfect group shots and fix blurry images⁵.

Google AI offers a few helpful photo-editing functions in addition to Super Res Zoom:

• Magic Eraser – remove large distractions in the background of your images to create your ideal photo composition⁵
• Best Take – uses advanced machine learning to combine multiple images and select the “best take” where everyone looks their best⁵
• Audio Magic Eraser – reduce distracting and unwanted sounds in your videos⁶
• Photo Unblur – improve blurry pictures by removing unwanted blurs and visual noise⁵

Arguably, the most noteworthy feature in the new Google Pixel 8a is its processor – Google’s most advanced GPU yet. Coupled with the software addition of Google AI, the Google Pixel 8a makes a name for itself in the mid-range with an incredible day-to-day use experience and advanced photo-editing functions.

The Google Tensor G3 is Google’s newest premier chipset and supports both casual everyday mobile activities as well as more demanding pursuits like gaming and streaming.

Designed to accommodate AI innovation, the Google Tensor G3 has a machine-learning model that future-proofs devices for further developments, especially in speech and natural language understanding. It means improvements in Google Assistant’s efficiency and convenient text-to-speech functions which allow Pixel users to listen to webpages read aloud, and even translated into different languages.

In addition to advanced AI photo-editing functions, Google AI also offers:

• Circle to Search – draw a circle around an image, text, or video and an automatic Google search will come up⁷
• Call Assist – Google AI will suggest the best times to call a business, wait on hold for you, and display calling menu options to suit your needs⁸
• Clear Calling – Reduces background noise and enhances voices in calls⁹

A substantial upgrade to its predecessor in the Google Pixel 7a, and even comparative to the flagship Google Pixel 8 series, the Pixel 8a’s adaptive battery is one you can depend on.  

The Google Pixel 8a sports an impressive battery life of Typical 4,492mAh capacity² which may last you an entire day or more, depending on your specific activities. You also have the option to turn on Extreme Battery Saver which can increase your phone’s use time to up to 72 hours². The phone also has wireless charging capabilities.

You can’t go wrong with the Google Pixel 8a display – standing at 6.1 inches³ it’s the perfect size for watching videos and browsing social media without ever feeling too empty.  The Google Pixel 8a display also boasts up to 120Hz refresh rate, making for a smooth and responsive touch experience.

Made with Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3, you can rely on the Google Pixel 8a to be a durable device, with an IP67 protection rate to boot¹⁰. It’ll be safe from small scratches and dust, while also being a pocket friendly size at 52.1mm (h) x 72.7mm (w) x 8.9mm (d). The Google Pixel 8a will be available in Bay, and Obsidian colourways.

The Google Pixel 8a is a great middle-ground for those who may want to upgrade from an earlier Google phone but don’t want to go all the way with the flagship Google Pixel 8 series. Capable of all your basic phone amenities and backed by Google’s latest AI software updates and processor, the Google Pixel 8a is no slouch even when compared to other new phones in the market.