Google could be looking to streamline its more affordable Pixel line-up. While the Pixel 3a series enjoyed a regular size and XL variant, it seems Google will ditch the palm-stretching model from the Pixel 4a range. That’s according to the latest whispers around the new smartphone, which is widely tipped to hit shelves worldwide in May – just before Google holds its annual developers conference in Mountain View, California.
The rumour originated with YouTube creator Dave Lee, who has a sizeable following on the Google-owned video platform but not much of a track record when it comes to leaks and rumours around unreleased hardware. According to Lee, the lack of Pixel 4a XL is due to sales of its predecessors, with the Pixel 3a purportedly comfortably outselling the 3a XL.
While large-screen smartphones typically outsell their smaller sibling, Pixel 3a filled a niche – there simply aren’t that many competent Android smartphones with screens small enough to reach every corner of the display these days – while the 3a XL took on rival large-screen handsets from the likes of OnePlus, Samsung, and of course, Google itself.
Of course, it’s also possible Google wants to simplify its product line-up by only offering a single more affordable model. With the Pixel 4a and Pixel 4a XL, the smartphones become their own distinct range. With one model, the Pixel 4a becomes a less expensive entry-level model.
This would mirror what Apple offers with its iPhone range: the iPhone 11 bringing some of the same features and design as its costlier cousins, and the flagship handset – the iPhone 11 Pro – shipping in two sizes. Likewise, there is no difference between the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL in terms of features – screen and battery size are the only differentiators.
It could be that Google wants its Pixel 4a to be seen as part of that range, rather than its own separate entity. That said, it’s still strange Google doesn’t unveil the Pixel 4a alongside the flagship smartphones. Launching the handset some six months after its annual Made By Google hardware showcase makes it feel very separate from the main smartphone line.
Elsewhere, the American tech giant is believed to be looking into a new colour to freshen-up the Pixel 4a line. According to a report from 9To5Google, Google could be looking into a new blue finish for the handset – something that was rumoured for the Pixel 4 line before launch but didn’t materialise.
Meanwhile, reliable tipster OnLeaks, who has a solid track record when it comes to unannounced hardware from companies like Samsung, Apple and Google, claims the Pixel 4a will have a 5.7-inch display with a hole-punch camera cut-out.
That means it likely won’t have the radar built into the bezel on the Pixel 4 used to detect hand gestures – to skip tracks and wake-up the touchscreen when it senses that you’re reaching for the phone. However, it does mean that it won’t look quite so outdated when compared side-by-side with the latest handsets from Samsung, OnePlus and Apple.
For those who aren’t massively passionate about waving their hands around above their smartphone to pause Spotify tracks or hang-up phone calls, the more affordable Pixel 4a looks set to have a more attractive and up-to-date industrial design than the costlier Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL, which is a bit of a kick in the teeth. Mind you, Google pulled a similar trick with the Pixel 3a XL last year, which ditched the widely-mocked notch that appeared on the Pixel 3 XL in favour of a smaller, more rounded bezel.
Next up, it appears the Pixel 4a series will return the headphone port to its rightful place on the handset – just like the Pixel 3a did last year.
Yes, while those coughing up upwards of the £669 don’t get a USB-C to 3.5mm headphone port adapter in the box – or even a free pair of USB-C headphones, those who opt for the Pixel 4a can use any old wired headphones they’ve got lying around.
Unfortunately, nothing credible has leaked around the price of the Pixel 4a. But for reference, the Pixel 3a started at £399, so we’d expect something similar this time around too.
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