Google Pixel 3a models make appearance in Google Store references

Ever since Google cancelled its beloved Nexus range of keenly priced stock Android smartphones, many have hoped it would release a more affordable Pixel smartphone. Those hopes may soon come true with logs showing that the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL are listed Google’s Play Store site navigation and Google Play Developer console device catalog. While some a surmising a launch at Google I/O next month could be when the latest Pixels are unveiled, their appearance in Google’s back end systems suggest a launch may be imminent.

Google’s current 5.5-inch Pixel 3 and 6.3-inch Pixel 3 XL are fitted with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 845 SoC and retail from US$799 and US$899 respectively putting them at the premium end of the market. The Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL are said to be fitted with mid-range chipsets, also from Qualcomm, in the shape of the Snapdragon 670 for the 3a and Snapdragon 710 for the 3a XL. This should see them priced at least US$200 south of their more expensive stablemates, but importantly they will have the Pixel Visual Core on board that plays an important role in the photo-taking reputation Google’s Pixel phones have established.

Additionally, to help keep the price points down, the Pixel 3a and 3a XL are said to be made from polycarbonate, rather than the glass and aluminum design of the high-end models. That said, they will still be equipped with OLED displays with the Pixel 3a’s coming in at 5.6-inch display and a resolution of 1080 x 2220 pixels (440ppi) and the Pixel 3a XL’s a slightly larger 6.0-inch display with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels (400ppi). While both will end up with old skool bezels, they will be (thankfully) devoid of any notches.