Pixel 8a Review: AI @ Google I/O!

Introduction

Thank God for the Pixel 8a! After a spring season of AI gadgets that seemed more about hype than practical use, it’s a relief to get back to basics with a phone that, not for the first time, I’ve called a “palette cleanser.” The Google Pixel 8a doesn’t introduce groundbreaking new form factors or revolutionary interface features. It’s simply a good phone with useful features for under $500—and, believe it or not, even the AI features are actually useful on occasion. Join me for a road trip review of the Pixel 8a, straight from Google I/O.

Unboxing and Design

When I took the Pixel 8a out of the box, I was transitioning from my Pixel Fold. [Image showing Pixel 8a and Pixel Fold side by side] One of the first things I noticed was how smooth the setup process was, as I restored my apps and settings from my previous Pixel device without any hassle. Google has nailed the ecosystem integration, allowing my Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Buds to seamlessly pair without extra steps. The only hiccup was syncing Fitbit, which still needs some work.

Design Improvements
The Pixel 8a has some notable design upgrades: wireless charging has been added to its mid-tier phones, alongside a more refined industrial design. The corners are rounded, and the colors are more saturated, giving it a premium look that you wouldn’t expect from a phone in this price range. The plastic back looks like glass, and despite the slight rough edge where the plastic meets the aluminum frame, the overall aesthetic and ergonomics are excellent.

Performance and AI Features

The Gemini AI Engine
During my road trip to San Francisco, I used the Pixel 8a for everything from navigating with Google Maps to using the new Gemini AI engine. Gemini took over from Google Assistant, providing me with personalized and efficient answers. I even tested the audio Magic Eraser, which helped remove background noise while shooting videos at Oracle Park, where the San Francisco Giants were playing.

Battery and Day-to-Day Usage
The Pixel 8a’s battery easily lasted all day with regular use. Whether I was checking emails, catching up on Telegram threads, or browsing, I didn’t have to worry about charging it before the day ended. The phone’s performance remained smooth, even during media-heavy tasks like streaming video and browsing.

Camera Performance
The camera setup on the Pixel 8a is a familiar one, drawing heavily from the Pixel 7a. It features an ultra-wide 80° field of view but no telephoto lens. The camera excels in still photography with sharp HDR shots but struggles a bit with video, often resulting in grainy or overexposed footage. Magic Eraser for photos and Audio Magic Eraser proved useful for editing out distractions, making it a fun tool for content creators.

AI and Google Ecosystem

What I love most about the Pixel 8a is the inclusion of Google’s most popular features. From Magic Eraser for photos to the new AI-driven assistant tools, the phone delivers a comprehensive Google experience. The integration with Google services was seamless, from managing my Pixel Watch to pairing my Pixel Buds instantly. However, the AI still has some growing pains—like when it misidentified a Starbucks coffee logo as a person.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life was generally solid, lasting throughout the day under normal use. But when attending a media event, it’s clear that you’ll need to top up the battery if you’re using it heavily for tasks like recording videos or browsing while on the go. Thankfully, Google has introduced wireless charging to this device, making it easier to top off during the day.

Display and User Experience

The Pixel 8a’s display is faster and brighter on paper, but I found it a bit dim in the California sun. The thick bezels didn’t bother me too much, but the chin on the device was a noticeable downside, especially at this price point. However, for those who are looking for an affordable way into the Pixel ecosystem, this is a minor trade-off.

Competition in the Mid-Tier Market

While the Pixel 8a is a solid phone, it faces stiff competition in the mid-tier market. Phones like the Nothing Phone 2A offer excellent design at a lower price, though the Pixel 8a still stands out due to its better software and Google’s long-term support commitment. The 8A will likely be one of the cheapest ways to get into the Pixel ecosystem for the next year.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Pixel 8a excels in offering a great value for those who want to experience the best of Google without spending big bucks. The addition of wireless charging, AI enhancements, and solid day-to-day performance make this an appealing option for budget-conscious users. The camera is a solid performer for photos, though it’s a bit lacking for video. The design is sleek and premium, and the phone integrates perfectly with the broader Google ecosystem. For those looking for an affordable way to step into the Pixel world, the 8a is a fantastic option.

Sponsor
Today’s sponsor is dbrand, providing custom skins and protection for your devices. You can personalize your Pixel 8a with unique designs or add protection with a grip case. Check out their selection in the link below.

Author: Michael Fisher
Location: San Francisco, California, at Google I/O

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This review is based on one week with the Pixel 8a review sample provided by Google, covering travel, lodging, and access to Google I/O. All opinions are my own, and Google did not have editorial control over this content.