Google Pixel 7a: Images of Arctic Blue and Carbon Grey retail units emerge before I/O 2023 launch

Google is not expected to start selling the Pixel 7a until May 10, the same day as its showcase during I/O 2023. However, a Tanzanian reseller claims to have obtained retail versions of the upcoming mid-range smartphone in two of its four colour options. For reference, Google is rumoured to have planned Arctic Blue, Carbon Grey, Coral and Cotton White colour options, although Coral may be a Google Store exclusive.

Seemingly, the reseller obtained at least one Pixel 7a unit a month ago, with the second posted last week on Facebook Marketplace. While the photos do not reveal any device details, they provide a first look at Google's new Arctic Blue colourway. As the images below show, the camera bar has a more muted blue tint than official images would suggest. In fact, the tone is so subdued that some people have mistaken it for grey. 

Regardless, the Pixel 7a appears to blur the lines between Google's flagship and Pixel A-Series. With a 90 Hz OLED display, a Tensor G2 chipset and wireless charging support, little will separate it and the Pixel 7. Presumably, camera performance will be worse on the Pixel 7a than the Pixel 7, but a new 64 MP primary camera (Sony IMX787) should help narrow the gap between the IMX363 in the Pixel 6a and the ISOCELL GN1 in the Pixel 7.

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