I think the Google Pixel 9a is brilliant, but it has me questioning annual upgrades more than ever before

Google’s Pixel range comprises some of the best phones on the market right now, but it’s with the A series that the phonemaker really shines. Year on year, the company has produced one of the best affordable premium smartphones, beating out competitors on price while offering exceptional performance where it matters. In 2025, however, I’m feeling less energetic about the beloved handset.

Don’t get me wrong – the Google Pixel 9a is a phenomenal phone and there are legitimately good reasons to buy it. It’s no doubt better than the iPhone 16e where it matters most and more accessible than the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE.

However, it’s only slightly higher specced than the Pixel 8a, and introduces a new design that looks more iPhone-like than anything else.

The Tensor G4 chip found in the Pixel ...