The Pixel 4a series has been on an extended delay to launch, but Google may have been rethinking its smartphone launch strategy for 2020 during that time. New reports from 9to5Google suggest that there may be a 5G Pixel 4a model in addition to a Pixel 5. Some recently found code from the current beta version of the Google Search app revealed these details.
Rumors have long indicated that codenames for Google’s 2020 smartphones are “bramble” and “redfin.” Many believed these names alluded to the Pixel 5 and Pixel 5 XL respectively; however, this new code shows a device called the Pixel 4a 5G as “bramble” and the Pixel 5 as “redfin.” Additionally, a standard Pixel 4a (likely a 4G model) is referred to as “sunfish” in the listing. This suggests, one that there may be three Pixel models released for 2020, and two, that there may not be a Pixel 5 XL released in Google’s device lineup for the year.
This new information throws a huge wrench in the speculations for Google’s 2020 smartphones, especially since the Pixel 4a should have been on the market since May. The launch got caught in the crossfire of Google canceling its I/O developers conference the initial rescheduling was set for June. Then the launch was pushed to July, and recent reports now suggest the Pixel 4a launch has once again been delayed until August. There is currently no confirmation from Google on its 2020 product lineup, but many are certain this means the manufacturer won’t announce a premium tier smartphone this year.
Both the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5 expected to run the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G SoC to enable 5G, due to their respective codenames. While there are many other rumored specs circulating for both the Pixel 4a and Pixel 5 series, these new details could potentially change the official features that are ultimately unveiled for these devices.
The standard Pixel 4a could remain set with its long-circulating rumored specs, which include a 5.81-inch 60Hz display with a single hole-punch Qualcomm Snapdragon 730 chip, 6GB of RAM and 64GB and 128GB UFS 2.1 storage options, a 12.2-megapixel rear camera, and 8-megapixel front camera, a 3,080 mAh USB-C powered battery, a rear fingerprint sensor and 3.5mm headphone jack, and Android 10 software.
Price-wise, there is speculation that the Pixel 4a could sell for around $349, while the Pixel 4a 5G could be priced somewhere in the $500 range, and the Pixel 5 for approximately $699.
A history of disappointing reception to Google devices
Many opinions on Google’s various trajectories continue to be met with opposition. Back when the brand produced the Nexus line, pure Android enthusiasts were slightly pleased but often though the series needed a little more oomph to compete with the likes of Apple and Samsung. By the time the Nexus 6 (codenamed Shamu) came around with beefier specs and a 6-inch display to match, these same enthusiasts a slew of new complaints. The Nexus 6P was then harangued for its large and protruding camera module, as Google experimented with a premium design.
Then enter the Pixel line, which featured the flagship features many hoped for with the Nexus line but many felt its minimalist design did not justify its premium price. Not to mention quips about the lack of 5G while other Android device makers have zipped forward in the industry.
The current attempt seems to be one of checking the price and 5G boxes, yet “fans” remain unsatisfied. A recent leak from Pigou, of which could be the Pixel 5 has left many uninspired design-wise. The potential reintroduction of the capacitive fingerprint sensor is also receiving major criticism.
