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Google’s Pixel 9a, launching in April for $499, is a budget-friendly alternative to the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. While it retains the Tensor G4 chip, it will miss out on some AI features due to hardware constraints.
According to Ars Technica, the Pixel 9a comes with 8GB RAM, whereas the Pixel 9 has 12GB and the Pixel 9 Pro has 16GB.
The lower RAM capacity prevents it from running Gemini Nano XS, the AI model powering the Pixel 9 series. Instead, it will use the Gemini Nano XXS, a lighter version with limited capabilities.
As a result, the Pixel 9a will lack several key AI features including Pixel Screenshots app, which requires background image processing. The Call Notes feature, which generates AI-based phone call summaries, will also be unavailable. Additionally, the newly announced spam detection feature might not work on this device, though it’s not yet confirmed.
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Since the XXS AI model is text-only, the Pixel 9a cannot process images or audio in real time.
However, the Recorder app will still work, as it transcribes audio first and then applies AI to the text, which the Pixel 9a can handle.
Despite these AI limitations, the Pixel 9a remains a solid mid-range choice. With this release, the gap between Google’s budget and flagship Pixels is widening. However, if you don’t rely heavily on AI features, you likely won’t notice much difference in daily use.
