Recent rumours suggest that the Google Pixel 9a will be equipped with the Tensor G4 chip, along with its relatives such as the Pixel 9, the 9 Pro, and the 9 Pro XL. However, this time, the mid-range model will have the G4 chip paired with an older modem, potentially affecting its connectivity performance compared to its predecessors.
The Pixel 9a’s Tensor G4 chip will be combined with the Samsung Exynos 5300 modem, which is also used in the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. This modem lacks the faster download speeds and satellite connectivity features of the newer Exynos 5400 modem found in the Pixel 9, suggesting that the Pixel 9a will miss out on certain features, such as Satellite SOS.
The Google Pixel 9a will also use Integrated Package on Package (IPoP) technology, which is thicker and less efficient than the fan-out wafer-level packaging found in the Pixel 9 series. This older packaging method might result in higher heat generation and reduced power efficiency compared to the newer technology. That being said, AI capabilities on the Pixel 9a, such as Gemini Nano with Multimodality, are expected to remain unchanged. The amount of RAM was not mentioned.
As the Google Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL are the first of the series to be available locally, it is unclear if the 9a also be making its way here. Considering that it is using the model of the older devices that did not make their way here, it suggests that the 9a will not as well. Additionally, this may also explain why the Pixel 9 Pro Fold did not land on our shores; a Google representative said the foldable entered production before it was decided that the Pixel series will finally be brought to Malaysia.
(Source: Android Authority)
