While most Google smartphone news has been focused on its upcoming foldable, there is word that the next Pixel slate device might release earlier than in recent years.
Twitter leakster, Max Jambor claims that the Pixel 6a might be announced in May, several months earlier than the August launches of prior A-series devices, such as the Pixel 5a and Pixel 4a. Media reports note that the older models were actually released later due to supply chain issues brought on by the pandemic. The Pixel 6a release could be more on schedule with even older A-series devices, such as the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL, which were announced in May of 2019. If the claim is accurate, the Pixel 6a might be announced during Google I/O timeframe, which is also set to take place in May.
Google already has a large pipeline of devices scheduled to launch in 2022. In addition to its foldable and the Pixel 6a, there are also rumors of a Pixel Watch, which is rumored for a May 26 launch. While Google I/O dates have not yet been confirmed, many assume that the developer conference would likely take place during that time, which could mean the Pixel 6a could be announced around that time as well.
These spring device launches would leave time for Google to unveil its foldable and next slate Pixel flagship, likely the Pixel 7, later in the year, with staple August/summer and October/fall timeframes open. October is typically when Google unveils its next operating system, and rumors about Android 13 “Tiramisu” are already circulating.
Meanwhile, specs and features rumors suggest the Pixel 6a might include the Google Tensor first introduced on the Pixel 6, a 6.2-inch 1080p display indicating a smaller body overall compared to the Pixel 6, and a plastic frame instead of metal and glass. It is expected to be 8.7mm thick.
Hardware might include 6GB and 8GB RAM options, 128GB internal storage options, a 4,800mAh battery with 30W charging, while the device is expected to run Android 12 for software.
The Pixel 6a might feature a dual-rear camera with a 12.2-megapixel wide-angle lens, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, plus an 8-megapixel front facing lens.
Some features that might not make it onto the Pixel 6a include a 3.5mm audio jack and the under-display fingerprint scanner.
Details about the Pixel 6a might not yet be confirmed, but it likely won’t be long before Google is teasing the device on its own.
