Pixel 6a: Google's next mid-range smartphone will not support all Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro camera features, even with the same Google Tensor SoC

Google is expected to present the Pixel 6a next month, likely on May 11 at Google I/O 2022. While many details about the mid-range smartphone have already leaked, XDA Developers now reports that the Pixel 6a will miss out on some Pixel 6 series camera features. Specifically, the Pixel 6a will not support Motion Mode, which allows the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro to blur the background of images.

Purportedly, the Pixel Tips app contains references to the Pixel 6a's codename, 'bluejay', that exclude it from being shown suggestions about Motion Mode. For reference, the Pixel 6a is believed to rely on the Sony IMX363 as its primary camera, the same sensor found in the Pixel 3 to Pixel 5a. Also, the Pixel 6a will contain the IMX386 from the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro as its ultra-wide-angle camera, along with the IMX355 that past Pixel smartphones have utilised as a front-facing camera.

However, the Pixel 6a is also believed to utilise the Google Tensor GS101, the company's first in-house SoC. Theoretically, the Pixel 6a could be capable of using Motion Mode, but Google has decided against optimising it for the IMX363. Reputedly, the Pixel 6a will have a 60 Hz panel too, not 90 Hz or 120 Hz like the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, respectively. This year's mid-range Pixel smartphone is thought to feature the same design language as the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, though.

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