Google has officially announced the release date for its highly anticipated Pixel 9A, which will be available in the US, Canada, and the UK starting April 10th. Initially, tech enthusiasts expected the budget-friendly device to launch shortly after its reveal on March 19th. However, Google made the decision to delay the release to investigate a component quality issue that arose during final preparations.
The rollout of the Pixel 9A will continue throughout Europe on April 14th, followed by releases in Australia, India, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia on April 16th. Google has also indicated that the device is “coming soon” to Japan. Although pre-orders for the Pixel 9A are not yet available on Google’s official site, interested buyers can sign up to receive notifications when the device becomes accessible.
In response to inquiries about the delay, Google spokesperson Matt Flegal clarified in a statement to The Verge that “rumors and speculation regarding this delay are false.” He elaborated that a passive component in the Pixel 9A did not meet Google’s stringent quality standards for device longevity. Rather than compromise on quality, the company opted for a delay to ensure that only devices meeting their high standards would reach consumers.
The Pixel 9A is set to retail at a starting price of $499. This new model features a larger display compared to its predecessor and is powered by the upgraded Tensor G4 chip. Additionally, the design has received a significant makeover, moving away from the traditional prominent camera bump to a more streamlined flat back. While the phone supports Google Gemini, it operates on a more limited version of this AI model, which means it lacks certain features such as Pixel Screenshots and Call Notes.
As the launch date approaches, the Pixel 9A is generating buzz among smartphone enthusiasts looking for an affordable yet powerful device. With its innovative features and a commitment to quality, Google aims to captivate a wide audience when it officially hits the shelves.
