With “premium AI features” and seven years of software support, Google launched the much-anticipated Pixel 8a on Tuesday for a starting price of Rs 52,999. The smartphone, which comes in four colours—Aloe, Bay, Obsidian, and Porcelain—will go on sale on May 14 after going up for pre-order on Flipkart starting today. The Pixel 8a has two storage options, 128 GB for the base model and 256 GB for the first time, priced at Rs 59,999. This is the company’s first A-series smartphone.

A flat Rs 4,000 discount is available to those who pre-order the Pixel 8a, bringing the device’s effective price down to Rs 48,999. Additionally, Pixel Buds A-Series are available from the company for a discounted price of Rs 999, and certain models come with an exchange bonus of up to Rs 9,000. 

Based on the Tensor G3 SoC, which powers AI experiences like Google Circle to Search, Best Take, Magic Editor, Audio Magic Eraser, and more, the newest member of the Pixel 8 series is similar to the rest of the lineup. With Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection and support for features like Always-on display with At a Glance and Now Playing, the phone boasts a 6.1-inch 120Hz Actua display.

The phone comes pre-installed with Android 14 and is eligible for major OS upgrades for seven years. It has an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, a matte composite back, and a matte aluminium frame. Google says that the Pixel 8a is the most robust A-Series device with its metal frame and camera bar. Recycled plastic, glass, and aluminium are used in its construction.

The Pixel 8a’s dual camera setup includes a 64 MP primary sensor, a 13 MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 13 MP selfie camera. All three cameras can record videos in 4K quality. The Pixel 8a has dual SIM connectivity—a nanophysical SIM slot and an eSIM—and supports 5G. The Indian version supports Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and Wi-Fi 6, while the US version only supports Wi-Fi 6E. The device is powered by a 4,492 mAh battery that supports wired (18W) and wireless charging. Additionally, the USB-C port is compatible with USB Type-C 3.2 standards.