Google’s upcoming Pixel 9A is shaping up to be a notable departure from its predecessors. Leaked images from X user fenibook reveal an early prototype of the mid-range phone, showcasing a significant design change: the absence of the iconic camera bar.
Instead, the Pixel 9A prototype suggests a flatter, flush-mounted camera system on the back. This marks a bold move from Google, which had embraced the camera bar as a signature feature in recent Pixel models. Claude Zellweger, a designer at Google, hinted at this shift in August, citing advancements in computational photography as a reason to rethink the hardware-to-software balance.
The Pixel A-series, often praised for delivering “pretty good” photo performance at a mid-tier price, seems to be Google’s testing ground for this redesign. Rumored specifications include a larger 6.3-inch display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and the Tensor G4 chip seen in Google’s flagship lineup. However, the possibility of an older modem has raised eyebrows, as the Pixel 9 series recently excelled in cellular performance.
Despite its promising internals, the prototype has received mixed reactions for its plain design. Fans are hoping Google spices things up with a vibrant color selection. The Pixel 9A is rumored to debut in March, aligning with Android 16’s early rollout, but only time will confirm these leaks.