Google has slashed $100 off the price of its Pixel 8a smartphone, bringing the cost down to an attractive $399 for the 128GB model. This significant discount comes just months after the device's initial launch, making it an even more compelling option in the mid-range smartphone market.
Key Features at a Glance
- 6.1-inch OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Google Tensor G3 processor
- 8GB RAM
- 128GB or 256GB storage options
- 64MP main camera with OIS
- 13MP ultrawide camera
- 13MP front-facing camera
- 4492 mAh battery with fast charging
- Android 14 with 5+ years of security updates
- IP67 water and dust resistance
A Competitive Edge
At its new price point, the Pixel 8a offers exceptional value. The device retains the high-end camera performance Google is known for, powered by the same Tensor G3 chip found in the flagship Pixel 8. This computational photography prowess has allowed previous a-series Pixels to compete with - and often outperform - more expensive flagship devices in blind camera tests.
Is It Worth Upgrading?
For those coming from older Pixel models or looking to switch to the Google ecosystem, the Pixel 8a at $399 is hard to ignore. It offers a significant upgrade over the Pixel 7a, including a faster refresh rate display, improved processor, and longer software support.
Availability and Options
The discounted Pixel 8a is available now through major retailers like Amazon. Color options include Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Aloe, though the 256GB model (priced at $459 after discount) is only available in Obsidian.
While it's unclear how long this promotion will last, it could be a strategic move by Google to clear inventory ahead of the anticipated Pixel 9 launch. For budget-conscious consumers or students heading back to school, this deal presents an opportunity to get a feature-packed smartphone at a more accessible price point.
