Highlights

• The Pixel 9a lacks AI features like Pixel Screenshots and Call Notes due to its 8GB RAM limitation.
• It is running a lighter “Gemini Nano 1.0 XXS” AI model.
• It includes AI tools like Summarize in Recorder, Pixel Studio and Add Me in Pixel Camera.
• Initially expected on March 26, the Pixel 9a’s release has been delayed to April due to a component quality issue.
• There is no confirmation on the exact launch date yet.

The Pixel 9a was officially announced just a few days ago and while it is yet to hit the shelves, details about its features have started surfacing. Recent reports reveal that Pixel 9a will miss out on key AI features like Pixel Screenshots and Call Notes because of its 8GB RAM limitation. Here’s what we know.

According to Google based on an Ars Technica report, the Pixel 9a runs “Gemini Nano 1.0 XXS”, a lighter AI model that doesn’t run continuously in the background and only supports text input. Because of this, the device can’t process images or audio, which means:

• Pixel Screenshots – A feature that analyses screenshots, makes them searchable and lets users add notes and reminders, will be absent.
• Call Notes – The ability to generate call transcripts and summaries within the Phone by Google app won’t be available.

The Pixel 9 series, which has 12GB to 16GB of RAM, runs “Gemini Nano XS”, a more capable version that can handle these features.

Despite these limitations, the Pixel 9a will still support some AI features including:

• Summarise in Recorder – Uses AI to generate summaries from transcripts.
• Pixel Studio – A new tool for creating images powered by Tensor G4 and Imagen 3 models.
• Add Me in Pixel Camera – Uses AI to intelligently add people to photos.

Pixel 9a Delayed to April Due to Component Issue

Originally expected to launch on March 26, the Pixel 9a’s release has been delayed to April due to a “component quality issue”.

Google confirmed the delay to 9to5Google, stating that a small number of devices were affected. However, the company hasn’t disclosed exactly what the issue is even though pre-orders have been cancelled through the Google Store and other retailers like Best Buy.

Google is now offering email notifications for users who want to be alerted when sales resume.

This delay is unusual, as Google typically allows pre-orders immediately after a product announcement. The lack of a confirmed release date suggests that the issue was discovered very close to launch.

Those interested in getting the phone are now hoping Google can resolve this problem quickly so the Pixel 9a can hit shelves soon without any lingering issues.

FAQS

Q1. Why does the Pixel 9a lack features like Pixel Screenshots and Call Notes?

Answer. The Pixel 9a has 8GB of RAM and runs a lighter “Gemini Nano 1.0 XXS” AI model, which cannot process images or audio, limiting its AI capabilities.

Q2. What AI features are supported on the Pixel 9a despite its limitations?

Answer. The device supports Summarize in Recorder for transcript summaries, Pixel Studio for creating images, and Add Me in Pixel Camera for intelligently adding people to photos.

Q3. Why has the Pixel 9a’s release been delayed?

Answer. Its release was delayed to April due to a “component quality issue” affecting a small number of devices, with no confirmed new launch date yet.

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Also Read: Google Pixel 9a Launches with Tensor G4, 5100mAh Battery & IP68 Rating