We heard previously that Google may plan to cancel the Pixel 5a 5G, but the arrival of new details may confirm that the smartphone model will arrive among us. 5G data connectivity is the new standard for high-end and mid-range smartphone models in 2021. While we need to wait for the 5G infrastructure to mature in many areas, it is a good idea to invest on a 5G-capable device, especially if you can access the technology in your area. In terms of design, the Pixel 5a 5G looks quite similar to the Pixel 4a 5G from last tear.
However, we could expect improvements in terms of performance and features. With improvements, the Pixel 5a 5G will be a redundant model, especially because the Pixel 4a 5G is already available among us. In files of Android 12 Developer Preview 3, we got hints that the Pixel 5a 5G will have Snapdragon 765 chipset. It is a quite capable mid-range hardware that can handle many mobile tasks with relative ease. Obviously, it is less future-proofed than devices with Snapdragon 888, because it may eventually struggle to handle more demanding apps. If it’s true that the Pixel 5a 5G will have Snapdragon 765, it means that the new smartphone model will be as capable as the Pixel 5 from last year. We could be hopeful that Google will introduce more software optimization to make the Pixel 5a 5G performs noticeably better than its predecessors. While the Pixel 4a and Pixel 4a 5G have 6GB RAM, it is possible that the Pixel 5a 5G will have 8GB RAM.
Eventually, all smartphone models will have 5G data connectivity as standard features, just like when we transitioned from 3G and 4G. Qualcomm has introduced the Snapdragon 780, so it is possible that future Pixel models will incorporate more powerful Snapdragon 7xx chipsets. Even so, Snapdragon 765 isn’t a bad hardware and you won’t encounter any sluggishness for typical mobile tasks. Even so, many Pixel fans could be disappointed that Google doesn’t use newer chipset for the Pixel 5a 5G. This also means that people who have Pixel 4, 4a 5G and 5 could be hesitant to upgrade to Pixel 5a 5G, unless they want to obtain 5G data connectivity. It will be interesting how the Pixel 5a 5G will be priced.
If the Pixel 5a 5G will be sold at $500, it is possible that the Pixel 4 will drop to $300 and Pixel 4s 5G to $400. There’s also a question whether it is worthwhile to spend $500 for a smartphone with Snapdragon 765. This means, Google needs to add interesting new features that make Pixel 5a 5G a worthwhile option. At the moment, Pixel devices have dual rear-facing camera and it’s time for Google to improve that. It could also be a good thing if Google can extend the battery life of Pixel 5a 5G. The use of display with 90Hz or 120Hz will also be great addition that make Pixel 5a 5G more appealing.
