Seven months after the original launch of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, Google today has expanded its Pixel 6 Series family by unveiling the Pixel 6a. If you have been following the development of the Pixel series, then you are likely aware that the “a” models are the entry-level option within the family.
Available for pre-order in July, the Pixel 6a looks almost identical to its older, higher-end siblings. That being said, the new model has a slightly smaller OLED screen at 6.1-inch although it is still equipped with a Google Tensor processor and Titan M2 security coprocessor alongside 6GB of RAM and 128GB internal storage.
The screen on Pixel 6a still has the same Full HD resolution as per Pixel 6 but is missing the Smooth Display feature which is why the screen’s refresh rate is limited to just 60Hz. Instead of Gorilla Glass Victus as Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, Pixel 6a has to settle with the lower-end Gorilla Glass 3.
Google has opted for a smaller resolution 12.2MP dual-pixel sensor for Pixel 6a main camera which also features an f/1.7 lens as well as optical and electronic image stabilisation. The new model also has a 12MP ultrawide camera and 8MP selfie camera just like the standard Pixel 6 model.
When it comes to battery, the Pixel 6a is equipped with a 4410mAh which Google claims can deliver an average battery life of 29 hours and can be pushed further to 72 hours through the new Extreme Battery Saver mode. The phone has a fast-charging capability of up to 18W but no wireless charging and users have to buy the charger separately as Google does not provide it for Pixel 6 Series phones.
Even though it might be the entry-level member of the Pixel 6 Series, the Pixel 6a still carries a rather hefty price tag (by our standard) of USD449 which made it equivalent to around RM1,968. Then again, Google Pixel is a premium family phone after all and that price tag has been carried forward from last year’s Pixel 5a.
