ARTICLE

Everything To Know About Google’s Value-Packed Pixel 9a Smartphone

April 16, 2025 - 5 min read 

 

Have you heard? Google just dropped their latest Pixel phone. Meet Pixel 9a with Gemini, your AI assistant. Pixel 9a is built with an incredible camera, all-day battery, durable design and 7 years of updates from launch so it keeps feeling new.1,2,3 To top it off it’s been billed as the wallet-friendly little brother in the top-rated Google Pixel 9 Series. While Google's A-series is known for affordability, the Pixel 9a doesn't compromise, offering impressive Google AI capabilities that are on par with their more premium devices.

 

“Google phones have consistently impressed with their strong performance, camera capabilities and overall value, and the Pixel 9a continues that trend,” says John Wong, The Good Guys Buyer – Mobiles. “It’s poised to be a favourite among Android users seeking an affordable upgrade in 2025.”

 

To help you decide whether the new Google Pixel phone is destined to become your new pocket buddy, we’ve gone beyond the stats and specs to highlight what’s new; and we’ve put some of your most commonly asked questions to The Good Guys mobile phone expert John Wong.


Let’s unpack the Google Pixel 9a…

Google pixel 9a in black.

New AI assistance with Gemini Live

Google takes convenience to the next level with the new Gemini Live extension. This advanced Google AI assistant digs for information from across your Google apps to handle requests effortlessly. 

 

For example, you could ask something like, “Can you help me plan my day in Melbourne?” – and it will check Google Maps for local museums, restaurants and landmarks; the Weather app, to let you know if you’ll need an umbrella; and the Calendar app, in case you have any existing appointments. Now that’s smart! 

 

Here are a few more AI-enabled features to make life easier:


●    Voice Typing: Allows for quick, hands-free messaging 
●    Call Screen: Intercepts unknown callers, prompting them with a message such as “Please state your name and reason for calling”
●    Circle to Search: Lets you find out more about anything on your screen without having to switch apps – just tap or circle it!
●    Smart home control: “Hey Google, dim the lights.”

Sharp photography, effortless editing

Packed with exciting features, Google Pixel 9a lets you step up your photography game and create memories your way. 

 

Capture more with a wide, 82-degree FOV rear camera, or use 8 x Super Res Zoom to get eight times closer without sacrificing picture quality. 

 

For extreme close-ups, Pixel 9a’s Macro Focus captures tiny details with stunning clarity. And with Night Sight, you can snap vibrant, crisp photos in low light – whether you’re at a concert or by a campfire. Then, when the stars come out, Astrophotography turns celestial views into breathtaking images.

 

“One of the AI-powered camera features that consistently excites Google Pixel customers is Add Me,” says John Wong. 

 

“With this, you can personally snap a group photo, have someone else take a shot of you, and Google’s AI seamlessly stitches the images together, making it look like you were there the whole time.”

“One of the AI-powered camera features that consistently excites Google Pixel customers is Add Me,” says John Wong, The Good Guys Buyer – Mobiles

Fast multi-tasking with the Google Tensor G4 

Google’s phones and wearables are built for seamless performance, with each upgrade enhancing efficiency, and Pixel 9a is no exception.

 

“Google has put the Tensor G4 chipset inside Pixel 9a, which is a big win for smooth multi-tasking and quick app launches. It’s essentially a flagship chipset built for cutting-edge processes, at a much more affordable price tag,” says John Wong. “It also enhances AI-driven features, making any AI activities more responsive.” 

How does the Google Pixel 9a compare to the Google Pixel 8a and 9? 

If you’re on the hunt for a budget-friendly upgrade, or you’re a first-time Google Pixel phone

owner, the Pixel 9a is a great choice. It offers 8GB of RAM for effortless multi-tasking, a stunning 6.3-inch Actua OLED display (that’s 35 per cent brighter than that of the Pixel 8a), and a 120Hz refresh rate for seamless scrolling and gaming. 

 

“The Pixel 9a matches the Pixel 9 for storage, offering up to 256GB, so you’ll have plenty of room for photos, videos and apps,” says John Wong. “The Pixel 9a delivers the perfect mix of performance, display quality, and value, making it an excellent entry into the Google Pixel ecosystem.”

What about battery life? Can the Pixel 9a go all day?

Say goodbye to power banks and charging cables. Google Pixel 9a keeps up with your day thanks to its Adaptive Battery, lasting over 30 hours on a single charge. Forgot your charger for the weekend? Just activate Extreme Battery Saver to extend battery life up to 100 hours4 by limiting background activity and prioritising essential apps.

 

What if I drop it? Is the Pixel 9a built to last?

 “The Pixel 9a is as tough as they come,” says John Wong. “Made from durable materials and with an IP68 rating for water- and dust-resistance, as well as a scratch-resistant display, the Pixel 9a is designed to withstand everyday wear and tear – it’s the toughest Pixel A-series phone yet, giving you extra peace of mind.”

Is it worth upgrading to the Pixel 9a?

Absolutely! If you’re after a great-value smartphone, Google Pixel 9a has you covered. It’s available in a range of on-trend colours and designed to keep you a step ahead with powerful time-saving tools, innovative creative features and cutting-edge security. With advanced Theft Protection that automatically locks your phone when theft is detected, your device stays safe no matter what. Plus, with rapid security updates and an industry-leading seven years of software support from launch, the Pixel 9a is set to remain fast, secure and up to date.

 

Shop more Google Pixel phones

Google Pixel 8a 5G 128GB Obsidian
Google Pixel 9 128GB Obsidian
Google Pixel 9 Pro 128GB 5G Obsidian
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL 1TB Obsidian

 

Looking to upgrade your mobile phone? Our experts know the latest and greatest features in phones and wearables – visit us in-store or online


*Disclaimer: For ‘over 30 hours’: Estimated battery life based on testing using a median Pixel user battery usage profile across a mix of talk, data, standby and use of other features. For ‘up to 100 hours’: Estimated battery life based on testing using a median Pixel user battery usage profile across a mix of talk, data, standby and use of limited other features that are default in Extreme Battery Saver mode (which disables various features including 5G connectivity). For both claims: Battery testing conducted on a major US operator network in California in late 2024 on pre-production hardware and software using default settings, except that, for the ‘up to 100 hours’ claim only, Extreme Battery Saver mode was enabled. Tests began with phones fully charged. Battery life depends upon many factors, and usage of certain features will decrease battery life. Actual battery life may be lower. Over time, Pixel software will manage battery performance to help maintain battery health as your battery ages. See g.co/pixel/batteryhealth for details.

Latest In Tech

Couple sit down to watch their big screen TV at home.

Why 85" TVs Are The Normal

Here's what you need to know before shopping for an extra big-screen TV.

Woman unboxes her new home security camera.

Budget Security Cameras

Take a look at some of the hi-tech features you’ll find in affordable security cameras.

Students using tablets at school.

Tablets & iPads For Students

Is your child using the right tech at school? View our top tips, suggestions and more.

Woman watching a big TV mounted to her wall at home.

The Best TVs For Wall Mounting

How to find the right TV that is suited for viewing and wall mounting.