Pixel 8a Spotted on US Cellular's Website, Leaks Reveal Obsidian Color Variant

The wait for the Pixel 8a, Google's next mid-range smartphone, is almost over. Rumors and leaks have been swirling for months, and now a new carrier listing has provided some fresh details about the upcoming device.

Google Pixel 8a images

Evan Blass, a well-known tech leaker, spotted a Pixel 8a tutorial on US Cellular's website before it was taken down. The listing revealed a new color option - Obsidian - alongside previously leaked colors like Porcelain, Bay, and Mint.

Google Pixel 8a US Carrier Listing

The design seems to be getting a bit of a refresh compared to the Pixel 7a. The 8a is rumored to have curvier edges and thicker bezels, though the back of the phone remains unseen in this leak. However, other rumors suggest a switch from the 7a's glossy finish to a more modern matte texture.

The Pixel 8a is expected to boast a 6.1-inch OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,400 nits, making for a great viewing experience. Under the hood, it might be powered by a toned-down version of Google's Tensor G3 chip, the same chip expected in the flagship Pixel 8 series.

Pixel 8a Display and Design

Battery life is also rumored to see an improvement over the Pixel 7a, possibly with faster charging capabilities. There are concerns, however, about a potential price increase over the Pixel 7a's $499 price tag. This could shake things up in the competitive mid-range smartphone market of 2024.

With Google I/O scheduled for May 14th, it's highly anticipated that Google will officially announce the Pixel 8a at the event. Whether the rumored price increase affects its chances of being the best mid-range phone of the year remains to be seen.