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The Pixel 5a 5G is official: bigger battery, improved cameras, water resistance

Updated: Aug 17, 2021, 3:31 PM

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We've been hearing rumors and leaks for the affordable Pixel 5a for at least a few months, but now, it is officially here. The Google Pixel 5a brings improvements in the camera and battery over its predecessor, alongside 5G, so you can get more of your Pixel phone wherever you go.

Pixel 5a specs: a short list

6.34" FHD+ display (60Hz)
Snapdragon 765G
6GB of RAM with 128GB of internal storage
4,680mAh battery cell
Main camera 12.2MP
Front camera 8MP
Stereo speakers
Colors: Mostly Black

Water resistance and a big 4,680mAh battery on the Pixel 5a

The Pixel 5a's camera is not the only area where Google has given the new budget-friendly Pixel some love. Actually, the Pixel 5a sports an IP67 water resistance, which is the first time an affordable Pixel A-lineup phone would be getting it. This means the Pixel 5a will withstand a drop in water up to a meter deep for about half an hour.

However, water resistance is not the only thing the Pixel 5a brags with. It comes now with a bigger 4,680mAh battery cell that Google says will power the phone for a day and more. In fact, the 4,680mAh battery cell is the biggest ever on any Pixel phone, so this welcome change is something we're eager to embrace.

Alongside this big battery that should ensure great battery performance, the Pixel 5a sports a set of battery-saving options to prolong the battery life even more, such as Extreme Battery Saver. This is a welcome change given the fact that the phone supports 5G, and the faster internet connection is known to take a toll on smaller-sized batteries.

Google is stating that with the Extreme Battery Saver, your Pixel 5a can go up to two-days on a single charge.

Pixel 5a brings an improved dual-camera system

The rear-facing camera system of the Pixel 5a now has an improved ultra-wide lens that captures a wider field of view than the previous Pixel A series. It's aperture is ƒ/2.2 and it sports a 107° field of view. Plus, Google states the built-in software will ensure there will be no lens distortion. The main camera of the Pixel 5a remains at 12.2MP with an aperture of ƒ/1.7 aperture.

Check out these image samples from Google's post about the new Pixel 5a:

The first photo shows the capabilities of the new ultra-wide lens, while the second photo showcases the Pixel 5a's Night Sight portrait mode. Additionally, Google Photos will make it easier for you to edit your Pixel 5a photos afterwards, while a feature called Cinematic Pan ensures your video is as stable as possible.

Pixel 5a design and display

The Pixel 5a comes in a familiar unibody design, showcasing minimalism and simplicity. The phone has the Google logo on the back and a rear-mounted fingerprint reader as did previous versions of phones from the affordable A-line. Another thing that seems familiar is that square camera bump on its back, also quite representative of recent Pixel A phones.

However, it's not only similarities with its predecessors the Pixel 5a brags with. It features the biggest and bezel-less display on a Pixel phone so far. It is sporting a big 6.34-inch FHD+ OLED display with a crisp 413PPI pixel density. It sports a 20:9 aspect ratio, ideal for social media browsing and your everyday tasks. Unfortunately though, despite some rumors hinting we should expect a 90Hz refresh rate, the Pixel 5a retains the 60Hz refresh rate from its predecessor.

The Pixel 5a is available only in one color option dubbed by Google 'Mostly Black'.

Pixel 5a price and availability

The Pixel 5a will be available to the US and Japan and sports an affordable $449 price. The 5G support, big display, the enormous-for-a-Pixel phone battery cell, and its affordable price ensure its place among the best budget-friendly phones for 2021. With Google's exceptional image processing features and minimalist design, the phone is set to be a welcome addition to the Pixel A lineup.

Unfortunately, no news about a global or European release of the Pixel 5a has been announced, so it seems Google has decided to limit the Pixel 5a just to the States and Japan.

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Izzy, a tech enthusiast and a key part of the PhoneArena team, specializes in delivering the latest mobile tech news and finding the best tech deals. Her interests extend to cybersecurity, phone design innovations, and camera capabilities. Outside her professional life, Izzy, a literature master's degree holder, enjoys reading, painting, and learning languages. She's also a personal growth advocate, believing in the power of experience and gratitude. Whether it's walking her Chihuahua or singing her heart out, Izzy embraces life with passion and curiosity.