Leak reveals key info about the Pixel 9a's chipset and modem

With the launch of the Pixel 9 series behind us, the next Google smartphone launch to look forward to is the Pixel 9a. Recently, an alleged photo of the device surfaced on the internet revealing a departure from the design of the Pixel 8a (available on Amazon for $499). Now new info has surfaced about the internals, specifically the processor and modem.

For the upcoming Pixel 9a, Google will be doing things a bit differently, most likely in a bid to differentiate it from the Pixel 9. According to Android Authority, an insider source has revealed that the Pixel 9a, which is codenamed ''tegu'', will be powered by the Tensor G4, the ''same'' chipset inside the Pixel 9 series. However, this chipset isn't completely identical to that of the Pixel 9.

Unlike the Tensor G4 inside the Pixel 9 which uses FOPLP (Fan-Out Panel Level Packaging), the Pixel 9a's version will use IPoP (Integrated Package on Package). While the latter is cheaper, it is thicker and also runs hotter. This means the Tensor G4 in the Pixel 9a should be slightly less powerful than that of the flagship Pixel 9 series. Google did the same thing with the Tensor G3 inside the Pixel 8a.

Another key difference between the Pixel 9a and the Pixel 9 is the choice of modem. While the Pixel 9 boasts a new modem (the Exynos 5400) which brings support for Satellite SOS service and support for 5G 3GPP Rel. 17 in addition to being more efficient, the Pixel 9a will retain the Exynos 5300 modem used in the previous generation. It is thus safe to say that the Pixel 9a will most likely lack support for Satellite SOS.

The lines between the Pixel A models and the flagship Pixel have been blurring lately, which has led to people asking if it is worth getting the base Pixel model when the next A series would offer similar features at a lower price. Now with these changes, there should be more factors to warrant the difference in price between the Pixel 9 and the upcoming Pixel 9a, and if the leaked photo from earlier is true, then it means there will also be a major distinction in design. Other differences that are expected include the quality and type of materials, charging capabilities, and possibly even the cameras.

The Pixel 9a isn't expected to launch until next year but considering Google doesn't have a tight lid on products still in development, it won't be surprising to see all of the details become public knowledge months before the phone's official unveiling.