Rumours: Pixel 9a Will Likely Feature Tensor G4 Chip with Older Modem

HomeSoCExynosRumours: Pixel 9a Will Likely Feature Tensor G4 Chip with Older Modem

Highlights

  • The upcoming Pixel 9a is rumoured to feature Google’s Tensor G4 chip.
  • The Tensor G4 will use integrated package-on-package (IPoP) technology.
  • It is cost-effective but may result in a thicker and hotter device compared to the flagship Pixel 9 series.
  • The Pixel 9a is expected to have the same AI capabilities as the flagship models.
  • It can potentially get 12 GB RAM and the inclusion of Gemini Nano with Multimodality.

If recent rumours are to be believed, then the upcoming Pixel 9a will most likely feature Google’s Tensor G4 chip.

However, the mid-range smartphone will reportedly pair this advanced chip with an older modem.

Many tech enthusiasts have raised concerns about Google’s decision to go with the older modem, which indicates some of the connectivity issues that Pixel phones are known for will continue to plague the Pixel 9a as well.

In previous A-series models, Google has used the latest Tensor chips but opted for a more cost-effective packaging method.

The Pixel 9a leaked camera module. (Image Credit -- ShrimpApplePro on X via Facebook).
The Pixel 9a leaked camera module. (Image Credit — ShrimpApplePro on X via Facebook).

As per Android Authority’s recent report, this trend of combining the latest chips with older configurations is likely to continue with the Pixel 9a.

The Tensor G4 will utilise Integrated package-on-package (IPoP) technology.

This method is affordable.

However, it usually makes the package thicker and it eventually runs hotter compared to the fan-out wafer-level packaging.

According to Android Authority, Tensor G4 on the Pixel 9a will continue to use Integrated Package on Package (IPoP)
According to Android Authority, Tensor G4 on the Pixel 9a will continue to use Integrated Package on Package (IPoP).

The flagship Pixel 9 series, on the other hand, offers better heat management and power efficiency.

As per the report, Pixel 9a is expected to have the same AI capabilities with some packaging differences.

It will also feature Gemini Nano with Multimodality.

At the moment, other key features of Pixel 9a are still unclear, including RAM and storage specifications.

Samsung FoundryTensor G4 chip is said to be paired with Samsung’s Exynos 5300 modem used on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.
Samsung Foundry
Tensor G4 chip is said to be paired with Samsung’s Exynos 5300 modem used on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.

However, looking at the predecessor and a few other new Pixel phones, we can assume an upgrade to 12 GB is on the cards.

If this happens, it should be a significant upgrade for any mid-range device.

Certain reports also suggest that Google might be pairing the Tensor G4 chip with Samsung’s Exynos 5300 modem in the Pixel 9a.

The company did something similar in the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.

Pixel 9a’s exclusive image found in a Facebook post. (Credit - ShrimpApplePro on X via Facebook).
Pixel 9a’s exclusive image found in a Facebook post. (Credit – ShrimpApplePro on X via Facebook).

While this modem supports slower theoretical download speeds (10Gbps compared to the 14.79Gbps of the Exynos 5400 in the Pixel 9), the main difference is in satellite connectivity.

The Pixel 9a is unlikely to feature Satellite SOS, a premium service available for two years with the Pixel 9.

In another leak, a social media leaker a few days ago claimed to have found pictures of the upcoming Pixel 9a.

It shows this device in pre-production form on a “random” Facebook private group.

Google Pixel 9a Specs

Display
  • 6.03 inch, AMOLED ScreenSmall
  • 1080 x 2400 pixelsPoor
  • 436 ppiAverage
  • HDR10+, Always-on Display
  • Corning Gorilla Glass Victus Plus
  • 120 Hz Refresh Rate
  • Punch Hole Display
Camera
  • 50 MP Quad Rear Camera with OISAverage
  • 4K UHD Video Recording
  • 50 MP Front Camera
Technical
  • Google Tensor 4 Chipset
  • Octa Core Processor
  • 8 GB RAMAverage
  • 256 GB Inbuilt Memory
Battery
  • 5000 mAh BatteryAverage
  • 45W Fast Charging
  • 15W Wireless Charging
  • Reverse Charging
Extra
  • No FM Radio
  • No 3.5mm Headphone Jack
Connectivity
  • 4G, 5G, VoLTE, Vo5G
  • Bluetooth v5.3, WiFi, NFC
  • USB-C v3.1
General
  • Android v14Good
  • Thickness: 8.5 mmAverage
  • In Display Fingerprint Sensor

FAQs

Q1. What processor is the Pixel 9a rumoured to have?

Answer. The Pixel 9a is rumoured to feature Google’s Tensor G4 chip, which is expected to provide advanced AI capabilities and performance.

Q2. What packaging method will the Tensor G4 chip use in the Pixel 9a?

Answer. The Tensor G4 chip in the Pixel 9a will use Integrated package-on-package (IPoP) technology.

This method is cost-effective but may result in a thicker and hotter device compared to the flagship Pixel 9 series.

Q3. How is Google’s Tensor G4 chip?

Answer. During the last Made by Google event, the company explained that Tensor G4 was its “fastest and most efficient yet.”

It added that the chip was designed to improve everyday use cases, so web browsing, streaming on YouTube, taking a photo, and shooting a video are smoother with less of a hit to your battery.

Q4. When is Pixel 9a getting launched?

Answer. Although there is no official confirmation yet, the Google Pixel 9a is expected to launch in Spring 2025.

Q5. How much would Google Pixel 9a cost?

Answer. As per multiple rumours, Google Pixel 9a price in India is expected to start at ₹49,990.

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