Latest news with #Pixel9a
Android Authority
7 days ago
- Android Authority
I installed Android 16 QPR1 beta 1, and these big changes I noticed immediately
Thanks to the release of Android 16 QPR1 beta 1, I got my first taste of Google's next major OS and its Material 3 Expressive design changes. While I haven't explored everything this beta offers, a few highlights are worth mentioning. If you're not on the QPR1 beta yet and want to be, it's easy to join. We have a guide for installing Android 16 QPR1 beta on your device if needed, but the process is straightforward. Opt into the beta program by selecting your eligible phone, which includes models from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 9 and the A series devices. I have it running on the Pixel 9a. However, remember that it's a beta build, so some features may not work as expected, and there's a risk of data loss. Consider this carefully before proceeding. What do you think about Android 16's new design? 3969 votes I love it 41 % It looks OK 23 % I'm not sure yet 23 % I hate it 13 % For those who choose not to download it, you're missing out. Here's what stood out to me in Android 16 QPR1 beta 1. The big Android 16 changes that caught my eye Joe Maring / Android Authority First, there are some nice visual updates thanks to Material 3 Expressive. You might love or hate these changes, but I quite like them. We first saw Material 3 Expressive last week on The Android Show, and it refreshes Android 16 with new physics-based animations, upgraded app components, fresh color themes, background blur effects, and more. While not everything will be in the stable release of Android 16 next month, the QPR gives us a glimpse of what's to come. There are some nice visual updates thanks to Material 3 Expressive. One of my favorite updates is to the Quick Settings shade. Toggles and buttons are bolder and more colorful, adding plenty of personality. The previous version felt bland and lacked customization, but now you can resize these tiles, which is a nice practical addition. There's more customization, allowing you to make your quick settings more attuned to your needs. And if you resize your tiles to the smallest size, thereby removing their name, Android 16 has a nifty trick to show you what you're clicking on with a flashing prompt at the bottom of the Quick Settings panel. You now have one-click toggles for internet and Bluetooth, too. In quick settings, if you swipe down twice, you'll notice a nice blur effect. It correlates with your background, giving a more expressive feel, which the old version of Android lacked. Blur is everywhere in Android 16, not just in quick settings. On the recent screen, you'll see a blurred version of your wallpaper peeking through, similar to quick settings. This is more obvious, and I really like it. Blur is everywhere in Android 16. There are other significant changes to the UI, with the status bar's Apple-inspired tweaks among the more noticeable. Andy Walker / Android Authority The biggest change is the battery icon, which now shows the percentage inside the indicator for the first time. Previously, it was on the side, showing the remaining percentage, but now that figure is displayed within the shape itself. There's also an update to the Wi-Fi symbol in the status bar, with a more distinctive three-part design, and a new dual-SIM-friendly signal bar design for your carrier connections. Another Material 3 Expressive change comes to the volume controls. It's less bubbly than before, a small change I like. The pop-out volume control has also been redesigned, with sliders now similar to the simpler home screen volume control. In Settings, you'll notice a change in appearance. Colored symbols down the left side make it easier to identify items at a glance. This makes the Settings app feel different and more navigable than ever before. In the fingerprint unlock section of Settings, there's a new 'Check enrolled fingerprints' button. Pressing it opens a black screen with a fingerprint symbol. When tapped, it returns to the settings menu, highlighting the saved fingerprint used to unlock your phone. If the fingerprint is not enrolled, a prompt saying 'Fingerprint not recognized' shows up. It's a good way of checking if someone has sneakily enrolled a fingerprint on your phone, or if you want to verify your fingerprint is enrolled properly. Some of my favorite changes are in the wallpaper settings, where Google has added plenty of new customization options. Some of my favorite changes are in the wallpaper settings, where Google has added plenty of new customization options. For example, you can now put your wallpaper into a customizable frame called Magic Portrait by clicking the effects button in wallpaper settings. Andy Walker / Android Authority You can pick from five frames, some of which can annoyingly cut off parts of images, like my dog's face. The feature is still in beta, so resizing isn't available yet. You can select frame colors from below the frames, which are determined by the dominant wallpaper colors. Another wallpaper change I like is the addition of weather elements, a feature Samsung had before on its One UI builds. Google now lets you add weather elements to your wallpaper, like fog, rain, snow, or sun, based on your local conditions. You can change the intensity with a slider; it looks cool, especially with rain in 3D. It's surprisingly practical too, as I can now check my wallpaper instead of opening my weather app. Andy Walker / Android Authority There's also a new slider to resize the clock on the lock screen, but it's currently only available on the default clock using a reactive font. This allows you to change size and width in one movement. Perhaps this will come to other clock styles in the future, but its scope is limited for now. There are smaller changes, too. When closing apps and swiping up, there's a new animation. In the recent menu, a new pill is overlaid on each app, expanding to options like screenshot, select, and pause the app. Adamya Sharma / Android Authority A small pop-up appears when updating your phone, indicating more space for apps and widgets on the home screen. Finally, there's more space for apps on the Pixel Launcher home screen, and At a Glance has shrunk slightly. Is this a small step towards moving it? I hope so. Google has borrowed some design ideas from Samsung and Apple, too. A lot is lurking within Android 16 QPR1 beta, and I feel I've barely scratched the surface. But these are some of the bigger changes I've noticed immediately after downloading it. I'm eager to get stuck into the beta in earnest, but early signs indicate an exciting suite of practical and aesthetic changes. What do you think of Android 16 so far? Are you going to download the first beta, or have you already? Let us know in the comments below.
Geeky Gadgets
21-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Spring 2025's Best Budget-Friendly Camera Phones
Are you searching for a mid-range smartphone that combines affordability with exceptional camera performance? In 2025, smartphone manufacturers are delivering devices that blur the line between mid-range and flagship models, especially in the realm of photography and videography. With features like advanced optical image stabilization (OIS), AI-powered editing tools, and versatile camera setups, these phones cater to casual users and photography enthusiasts alike. Below is a detailed video from Tech Spurt to the best mid-range camera phones available this spring, designed to help you make an informed choice. Watch this video on YouTube. Google Pixel 9a The Google Pixel 9a is a top contender for photography enthusiasts seeking a budget-friendly option. Its 48MP main camera, equipped with optical image stabilization (OIS), ensures sharp and stable images, even in challenging conditions. The 13MP ultra-wide lens adds versatility, allowing you to capture expansive landscapes or group shots effortlessly. While the Pixel 9a lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, its 8x Super Res Zoom compensates with impressive digital zoom capabilities, delivering clear and detailed results. Google's AI-powered tools, such as Magic Editor and Add Me, simplify photo editing, allowing you to enhance your images with minimal effort. For video enthusiasts, the Pixel 9a supports 4K recording with reliable stabilization and dual-mic audio capture, making sure both visual and audio clarity. This phone is an excellent choice for users who prioritize ease of use and consistent performance. Nothing Phone 3A & 3A Pro The Nothing Phone 3A series offers two compelling options for mid-range buyers, each designed to deliver a premium photography experience. Both models feature a 50MP main camera, but the Pro version takes it a step further with a superior sensor that enhances low-light performance. The Pro also includes a 3x optical zoom with OIS, making it ideal for capturing distant subjects with precision and clarity. Both models excel in 4K video recording, offering smooth stabilization and vibrant visuals. The ultra-wide performance is equally impressive, allowing users to experiment with creative compositions. Whether you choose the standard 3A or the Pro variant, these phones provide a well-rounded photography and videography experience. Samsung Galaxy A56 & A36 Samsung's Galaxy A56 and A36 models bring reliable camera setups to the mid-range market, offering a balance of performance and affordability. The Galaxy A56 features a 50MP main camera with OIS, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5MP macro lens for detailed close-up shots. The A36, while slightly scaled down, retains a similar configuration, making it a strong option for budget-conscious users. Both phones excel in HDR and low-light scenarios, producing vibrant and detailed images. However, they may occasionally struggle with motion blur in fast-paced environments. For video enthusiasts, the devices support 4K recording at 30fps, complemented by decent stabilization for smooth and professional-looking footage. These models are ideal for users seeking dependable performance across various photography conditions. OnePlus 13R & Nord Series OnePlus continues to impress with its mid-range offerings, particularly the 13R and Nord 4 models. The OnePlus 13R features a 50MP main camera (Sony IMX700), a 2x telephoto lens, and an 8MP ultra-wide lens, delivering a versatile and well-rounded photography experience. The Nord 4, on the other hand, focuses on low-light performance with its 50MP main camera with OIS, making it a strong choice for night photography. Both devices support 4K video recording with reliable stabilization, making sure smooth and high-quality footage. Whether you're capturing landscapes, portraits, or videos, these phones provide the tools you need for creative expression. Their combination of performance and affordability makes them standout options in the mid-range segment. Oppo Reno 13 Pro The Oppo Reno 13 Pro is a powerhouse for photography enthusiasts, offering a robust camera setup that caters to diverse needs. It features a 50MP main camera with OIS, a 50MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide lens, making sure versatility in capturing different scenes. Its portrait mode is particularly noteworthy, delivering sharp and vibrant images even in challenging lighting conditions. The phone excels in high-contrast and low-light scenarios, producing detailed and balanced results. For video recording, it supports 4K resolution with stable visuals and clear audio, making it a strong contender for content creators. The Oppo Reno 13 Pro is a reliable choice for users who demand flexibility and performance in their photography tools. Motorola Edge 60 Fusion The Motorola Edge 60 Fusion combines practicality with reliable performance, making it a solid choice for everyday photography. Its 50MP main camera (Sony IMX896) and 13MP ultra-wide lens deliver well-balanced images across various conditions, including HDR and low-light scenarios. The device supports 4K video recording with decent stabilization and audio capture, making sure smooth and clear results. While it may not boast the advanced features of some competitors, the Motorola Edge 60 Fusion offers consistent performance and ease of use, making it an excellent option for users seeking a straightforward and dependable camera phone. Xiaomi 14T & Poco F7 Ultra Xiaomi's 14T and Poco F7 Ultra cater to users who prioritize versatility and performance. The Xiaomi 14T features a 50MP main camera (Sony IMX906), a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP telephoto lens with 20x zoom, offering impressive zoom capabilities for distant subjects. The Poco F7 Ultra provides a similar setup, including a 50MP telephoto lens with 2.5x zoom and a 32MP ultra-wide lens, making sure flexibility in capturing various scenes. Both phones excel in natural color reproduction, delivering vibrant and accurate visuals. They also support 4K video recording, making them ideal for users who value high-quality photography and videography. These models are perfect for those seeking a balance of innovation and affordability. Vivo V40 Pro The Vivo V40 Pro stands out with its triple 50MP camera setup, which includes OIS and excellent portrait capabilities. The phone handles motion and high-contrast scenarios effectively, producing sharp and detailed images. Its portrait mode is particularly impressive, delivering professional-quality results with minimal effort. For video recording, the Vivo V40 Pro supports 4K resolution with good stabilization and audio clarity, making it a well-rounded option for both photography and videography enthusiasts. This phone is a strong choice for users who demand versatility and performance in a mid-range device. Huawei Nova 13 Pro The Huawei Nova 13 Pro offers a versatile camera system tailored to meet diverse photography needs. It features a 50MP main camera with variable aperture and OIS, a 12MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide lens, making sure flexibility in capturing different scenes. Its 60MP front-facing camera with autofocus is perfect for selfies and video calls, delivering sharp and detailed results. The device excels in low-light and portrait photography, producing vibrant and balanced images. For video recording, it supports 4K resolution, making sure high-quality visuals and sound. The Huawei Nova 13 Pro is an excellent choice for users who value innovation and versatility in their camera phones. Here are more detailed guides and articles that you may find helpful on Best Mid-Range Camera Phones 2025. Source & Image Credit: Tech Spurt Filed Under: Android News, Guides, Mobile Phone News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Forbes
20-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Google Slashes Pixel 9a Price For First Time In New Deal
The Google Pixel 9a gets its first discount. Photographer: Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg Google hasn't been shy about repeatedly discounting the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro series, with the flagship phones receiving a major discount earlier this month. But the newer Pixel 9a has resolutely remained at full price since its April launch, until now. Google has knocked £50 ($66.78) off the Pixel 9a for shoppers in the U.K., which brings the price down to £449 ($599.70). The deal also comes with enhanced trade-in prices and three months of Google One, YouTube Premium and six months of Fitbit Premium. There's also 10% cashback (in store credit) for Google One subscribers who buy the phone. The Pixel 9a being the cheapest of Google's phones means the subscription freebies don't match up to the Pixel 9 or Pixel 9 Pro, which offer six months and 12 months of Google one respectively. This is also one of the few times that Amazon hasn't matched Google's new Pixel 9a price. The retailer has been one of the cheapest places to buy smartphones in the last year, either matching manufacturer sales or undercutting them. For example, a recent Galaxy Z Fold 6 Amazon deal matched Samsung's huge $350 discount if (which was only available if no device was traded-in to Samsung). The difference being that Amazon accepted a trade-in discount on top of the price cut, which beat Samsung's promotion price (even with Amazon's poor trade-in valuations). We're a long way from the huge price drops Google has applied to the Pixel 8a and 7a in the last year because the device is still so new. Google discounted the Pixel 8a by the same amount (£50) around this time last year and the company likes to follow similar pricing patterns with its smartphones. If you're looking for some hope that the Pixel 9a price will drop further, the Search company dropped the handset's price by £80 ($106.85) in July 2024 and then by £100 ($133.56) in September. Google's U.K. trade in pricing isn't the best. Photographer: Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg U.K. and European trade-in pricing lags far behind the U.S. across almost all manufacturers. That is no different for this Google Store sale—even with the enhanced pricing—which Google says maxes out at £405 ($540.93). That top figure is reserved for unrealistic trade-ins like the Apple iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 range. But Google will pay a comically small amount for high-end phones with years of software support left, including its own Pixel devices. You will get far more for these phones on the secondary market for the next couple of years. That is particularly true for the Galaxy Z Fold 6—although I wouldn't recommend selling that to buy a Pixel 9a. For more realistic devices to trade-in, the prices are even worse, although they're closer to their eBay and Swappa auction price. The Galaxy S22, for example, will net you £112 ($149.59), while the Pixel 6 is priced at £98 ($130.89).
Geeky Gadgets
19-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Pixel 9a Durability: How Tough is Google's Mid-Ranger
The Google Pixel 9a, priced at $499, positions itself as a mid-range smartphone with a sleek, minimalist design and a focus on durability. While it offers solid performance and practical features, concerns about repairability and environmental impact cast a shadow over its appeal. The video below from JerryRigEverything gives us a detailed look at the Pixel 9a's design, durability, sustainability, and more. Watch this video on YouTube. Design and Build: Minimalist Aesthetic Meets Practicality The Pixel 9a adopts a clean, understated design that avoids the bulky camera bumps commonly seen in modern smartphones. Its aluminum side rails and plastic back panel strike a balance between durability and affordability, making it a practical choice for everyday use. The device features a 6.3-inch 1080p display with a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate, delivering a responsive and visually pleasing experience. With an impressive 2,700 nits of brightness, the screen ensures excellent visibility even in direct sunlight, making it suitable for outdoor use. However, the display is protected by Gorilla Glass 3, which, while durable, offers less impact resistance compared to newer versions of Gorilla Glass, leaving it more vulnerable to drops. The phone's minimalist design extends to its overall build, with metal buttons integrated into the frame for a premium touch. While this design approach enhances usability and aesthetics, it does little to differentiate the Pixel 9a from competitors in the mid-range market. Durability: Solid Build with Minor Vulnerabilities In terms of durability, the Pixel 9a performs well for its price range. The Gorilla Glass 3 screen resists scratches at industry-standard levels, providing adequate protection against everyday wear and tear. The phone's structural rigidity is comparable to premium devices like the iPhone, making sure it can withstand moderate physical stress without bending or cracking. However, the design includes a large, unprotected speaker grill, which raises concerns about water resistance. This feature could allow moisture or debris to enter the device, potentially compromising its long-term reliability in harsher environments. While the Pixel 9a is not marketed as a rugged smartphone, this vulnerability may be a drawback for users who frequently expose their devices to challenging conditions. Camera Technology: Reliable but Unremarkable The Pixel 9a is equipped with a 48 MP main camera featuring optical image stabilization (OIS), which ensures sharp and stable images in various lighting conditions. This is complemented by a 13 MP ultrawide camera, which expands the phone's photographic capabilities. However, the ultrawide lens lacks OIS, which may limit its performance in low-light or fast-moving scenarios, resulting in less consistent image quality. Both cameras are housed under a single oval glass piece, providing adequate protection without adding unnecessary bulk to the phone's design. While the camera system is capable and reliable, it does not introduce any significant advancements in smartphone photography. For users seeking innovative camera technology, the Pixel 9a may fall short of expectations. Repairability: A Key Weakness One of the most significant drawbacks of the Pixel 9a is its repairability. While the screen can be replaced without removing the back panel, the battery removal process is notably challenging. Google has used a permanent adhesive to secure the battery, making replacement difficult and potentially hazardous. This design choice complicates repairs and raises concerns about the phone's environmental impact, as it hinders recycling efforts. For users who prioritize long-term usability and sustainability, this aspect of the Pixel 9a may be a dealbreaker. Critics argue that the use of permanent adhesive undermines Google's sustainability claims, despite the phone's use of recycled aluminum in its construction. This trade-off between durability and repairability highlights a significant limitation in the device's design. Additional Features: Practical but Uninspired The Pixel 9a includes a 23-watt USB-C 3.2 charging port, allowing fast and efficient charging for users on the go. However, the device lacks a microSD card slot, limiting options for storage expansion. This omission may be a drawback for users who require additional storage for photos, videos, or apps. Despite these limitations, the phone's metal buttons and integrated frame design add a touch of sophistication to its overall build. While these features enhance usability, they do little to set the Pixel 9a apart from its competitors in the crowded mid-range market. For users seeking innovative or standout features, the Pixel 9a may feel underwhelming. Environmental Impact: Sustainability Efforts Fall Short Google has made efforts to incorporate recycled aluminum into the Pixel 9a's construction, which is a commendable step toward sustainability. However, the use of permanent adhesive for the battery undermines these efforts. This design choice complicates recycling and raises questions about Google's commitment to environmental responsibility. For eco-conscious consumers, the inability to easily replace or recycle the battery may outweigh the phone's other merits. While the use of recycled materials is a positive step, the overall environmental impact of the Pixel 9a remains a concern, particularly when compared to devices that prioritize repairability and recyclability. A Balanced Offering with Notable Trade-Offs The Google Pixel 9a delivers a solid mid-range smartphone experience, offering a minimalist design, durable construction, and capable cameras. However, its repairability and environmental impact are significant drawbacks. The use of permanent adhesive for the battery not only complicates repairs but also detracts from the phone's sustainability. While the Pixel 9a may appeal to users seeking a functional and durable device, its design choices make it less suitable for environmentally conscious consumers or those who prioritize long-term repairability. For users willing to overlook these shortcomings, the Pixel 9a offers a reliable and practical option in the mid-range smartphone market. Expand your understanding of Google Pixel 9a Durability with additional resources from our extensive library of articles. Source & Image Credit: JerryRigEverything Filed Under: Android News, Mobile Phone News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Extra.ie
19-05-2025
- Extra.ie
Seoul food and smart tech as guests enjoy Google's Korean Connection
Korean culture and cutting-edge tech collided this week at Dublin hotspot Hen's Teeth. Google celebrated the launch of the brand-new Pixel 9a with an immersive Translate and Taste experience. Laura Nolan and Matthew MacNabb, Louise McSharry, BillyKiss and Lorna Spaine all stepped out to sample the future of AI with a side of Korean cuisine. Louise McSharry at Google's Translate and Taste experience 'Korean Connection' to celebrate the launch of the Pixel 9a. Pic: Brian McEvoy Hosted by Dev Skehan, the event was designed to showcase Pixel 9a's powerful AI features, most notably Google Translate and Gemini. Dev Skehan at Google's Translate and Taste experience 'Korean Connection' to celebrate the launch of the Pixel 9a. Pic: Brian McEvoy Guests put the tech to the test by translating their Korean menus with ease. Lorna Spaine at Google's Translate and Taste experience 'Korean Connection' to celebrate the launch of the Pixel 9a. Pic: Brian McEvoy They then explored how Gemini can effortlessly map out an itinerary for a dreamy getaway to Seoul. BillyKiss at Google's Translate and Taste experience 'Korean Connection' to celebrate the launch of the Pixel 9a. Pic: Brian McEvoy The Pixel 9a has been engineered with Google's most advanced chip to date — the Tensor G4. Shanice Griffin at Google's Translate and Taste experience 'Korean Connection' to celebrate the launch of the Pixel 9a. Pic: Brian McEvoy It delivers flagship-level performance and next-gen AI capabilities from the Pixel 9 series. Nicoleta Cocut at Google's Translate and Taste experience 'Korean Connection' to celebrate the launch of the Pixel 9a. Pic: Brian McEvoy It features a refined, durable design, an upgraded primary camera system, all-day battery life, and seamless integration with Gemini to elevate productivity and creativity across every task.
