Google Pixel 5a: Everything you need to know

Update: June 11 launch date expected

John Prosser is rarely mistaken when it comes to his leaks, has revealed tantalizing new information about the gimped version of the Google Pixel 5. He did mention over Twitter that Google is set to unveil a new range of devices in an event that will be held on June 11, 2021, which will also see the launch of the Pixel 5a. If that is the case, the Pixel 5a's release would be earlier than that of its predecessor, the Pixel 4a.

Part of the Pixel 4a's delay was attributed to the coronavirus pandemic that pushed everything back. This year, Google appears to have postponed its annual Google I/O event as well, which normally happens each May. However, a slightly later release in June would not be out of place considering how the vaccination program in the US is well underway, which should smoothen things out. Let us keep an eye out this June 11th for the Pixel 5a's debut!

Initial renders show Pixel 4a similarities

We're expecting a mid-range model in the Pixel lineup from Google this year as with previous years, and OnLeaks aka Steve Hemmerstoffer has some interesting information concerning the first renders of the Google Pixel 5a. These renders do indicate that the Pixel 5a will follow the design language of its predecessor by and large, and will see a slight increase in size compared to last year's Google Pixel 4a 5G.

• Also read: Google Pixel 4a review

Before we dive further into the upcoming Google smartphone, let's take a look at the leaked images:

Google Pixel 5a: Dual-cameras and a 6.2-inch display

Steve Hemmerstoffer has generally not veered too far away from the truth as far as his leaks are concerned, and hence we are stoked to see the Pixel 5a arriving in a 156.2 x 73.2 x 8.8 mm (9.4mm with camera bump) form factor. This translates to a 6.2-inch display which would make it a wee bit larger than the Pixel 4a 5G and obviously bigger than the Pixel 4a. Expect an OLED Full HD+ display.

The bezels remain slim with the chin being a bit more pronounced than usual. There is a punch-hole selfie camera in the top left corner of the display, while the back sees Google migrating to a dual-camera setup. So far, we do not know anything about the camera sensors in the Pixel 5a, but hopefully, they would have moved on from the aging sensors found in its predecessors. 

There will be people who would be happy to find out that the 3.5mm audio port remains available, keeping the rear fingerprint sensor company as part of Google's design legacy. We are also glad to hear that the stereo speaker configuration is part of the Google Pixel 5a, something that mid-range handsets have begun to ditch these days. Too bad information remains extremely limited as at press time. 

It is important to take note that these are just leaks at the moment, so do take what you read with a pinch of salt until something official rolls out from Google. 

Where is the Pixel 5a headed?

We are unable to see which direction is Google headed with its smartphone portfolio for this year. Last year, the Pixel 4a 5G was sandwiched between the high-end category and the Pixel 4a, hence raising a fair number of eyebrows in the process. 

It remains to be seen how Google intends to position itself this year, although the question can probably only be answered this fall when all models from the Palo Alto-based company are revealed. The Pixel 5a is expected to kick off Google's smartphone season this year when summer rolls around.  The Google 4a was unveiled in early August 2020, and if history is any indicator, we would be treated to a similar date this year as well.

A point to ponder: what would you think of the Pixel 5a if the released smartphone does indeed match information based on this leak, and what kind of release strategy are you generally hoping to see from Google this year? Image source: Voice/ Montage Article image: NextPit

Source: Voice