Google is working hard on the launch of the Pixel 8a, its next mid-range smartphone.

Traditionally, Google takes advantage of its I/O conference in May to lift the veil on a new mid-range smartphone. But if you still had any doubts, know that the firm has just indirectly confirmed that its next smartphone, the Pixel 8a, is indeed in the pipeline.

As 9to5Google explains, Pixel smartphone users recently noticed the disappearance of a new feature that details the battery status. Responding to a comment on this subject on Google’s bug site, an employee indicated that this is not a bug. The feature should not be offered on older models, but it will be present on the “Pixel 8a” which is mentioned by this employee. “We only enable this page on Pixel 8a and later,” that response reads.

The affordable version of the Pixel 8

At the moment, Google has not yet shared any information about the Pixel 8a. But we already know that it will be a more affordable version of the Pixel 8. If Google does not break with its traditions, the Pixel 8a should have the same processor as the Pixel 8 and retain some of the characteristics of this high-end model. On the other hand, to lower costs, Google will have to make some concessions, whether at the technical sheet level or at the design level.

Note also that currently, rumors are already circulating about Google’s next mid-range smartphone. Unfortunately, these rumors point to a possible price increase. Indeed, the Pixel 8a would be sold at 569 euros in Europe. Otherwise, Google would offer the Pixel 8a in four colors: black, beige, light blue and light green.

What technical sheet?

Regarding the technical sheet, the smartphone could have a Tensor G3 chip, combined with 8 GB of RAM. The screen could have a diagonal of 6.1 inches. But, as usual, as this information is unofficial, caution remains in order. In any case, this is an important model for Google, since this mid-range could help the firm increase its sales, while it is already growing in the smartphone market.

In February, Google reported strong growth in its hardware revenues, thanks to its Pixel smartphones. And recently, at Mobile World Congress, its Pixel 8 series received the Smartphone of the Year award.

• Every year, Google launches a new mid-range smartphone at its I/O developer conference in May.
• In a response to a comment about a bug (which wasn’t a bug), an employee confirms that the Pixel 8a is indeed in the pipeline
• Rumors suggest the Pixel 8a could have a higher price than its predecessor