The buzz around Google’s upcoming Pixel 9a launch tomorrow has reached fever pitch. Yet, in a surprising turn of events, the spotlight has shifted, at least momentarily, to its predecessor. Google has announced a significant price reduction of up to Rs 30,000 on the Pixel 8 in India. This dramatic cut makes the still-powerful flagship an incredibly attractive option for consumers seeking premium features without the top-tier price tag, just as the anticipated mid-range contender prepares to enter the market.
The Google Pixel 8, which debuted in India in late 2023, originally carried a starting price of Rs 75,999. Now, prospective buyers can snag the base 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant for as low as Rs 49,999 on Flipkart, marking a substantial 34% discount. For those desiring more storage, the 256GB model is now listed at Rs 52,999, a considerable drop from its initial price. This means both storage options are now available for under Rs 53,000, a first since the phone’s launch.
The deal becomes even sweeter with additional bank offers. Customers using HDFC Bank credit card EMI transactions can avail an instant discount of Rs 3,000, further bringing down the effective price of the 128GB variant to Rs 46,999 and the 256GB variant to Rs 49,999. Flipkart is also offering a 5% unlimited cashback on Flipkart Axis Bank credit card transactions. Moreover, an exchange offer allows customers to potentially save up to Rs 31,050, depending on the condition and model of their old smartphone.
This aggressive pricing strategy just ahead of the Pixel 9a launch suggests a clear move by Google to clear existing Pixel 8 inventory. It also presents a compelling dilemma for potential buyers: opt for the proven flagship with a significant discount or wait for the potentially more affordable but possibly less feature-rich Pixel 9a.
Despite the impending arrival of its successor, the Google Pixel 8 remains a formidable smartphone. It boasts a vibrant 6.2-inch Full HD+ OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. Powering the device is Google’s Tensor G3 chipset, coupled with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and demanding applications. The Tensor G3 also brings advanced on-device machine learning capabilities that power features like Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and Best Take, enhancing the user experience in unique ways.
Photography remains a key strength of the Pixel lineup, and the Pixel 8 does not disappoint. It features a dual-camera system on the rear, comprising a 50MP Octa PD wide camera and a 12MP ultrawide camera with autofocus. This combination captures stunning photos with excellent detail, dynamic range, and the signature Pixel color science. The front-facing 10.5MP camera delivers sharp and clear selfies. The phone also supports 4K video recording at various frame rates on both the front and rear cameras, along with features like Audio Magic Eraser and Cinematic Blur for professional-looking videos.
Beyond the core specifications, the Pixel 8 offers a host of other premium features. It packs a 4575 mAh battery that provides all-day battery life, with support for fast wired charging (up to 50% in about 30 minutes with a 30W charger) and fast wireless charging. The phone also features stereo speakers, three microphones with noise suppression, and an under-display fingerprint sensor for secure authentication. Furthermore, Google promises seven years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates for the Pixel 8, ensuring it remains current and protected for an extended period.
Now, all eyes are on the Google Pixel 9a, set to launch tomorrow. While Google has remained tight-lipped about the official details, numerous leaks and reports have provided insights into what to expect. The Pixel 9a is rumored to sport a 6.3-inch AMOLED display, potentially with a 120Hz refresh rate. Design-wise, it might adopt a look similar to the Pixel 9 series, featuring a flat rear panel and a less pronounced camera bump.
Under the hood, the Pixel 9a is expected to be powered by Google’s latest Tensor G4 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and storage options of up to 256GB. The camera setup is rumored to include a 48MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide lens. A significant upgrade could be in the battery department, with reports suggesting a 5,100mAh battery with 23W wired and 7.5W wireless charging support. The Pixel 9a is also likely to come with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
The anticipated price of the Pixel 9a has been a subject of much speculation. Some reports suggest a price around Rs 43,100 for the base 128GB model in the US, potentially translating to a similar or slightly higher price in India. If these estimates hold true, the discounted Pixel 8 presents a very compelling alternative, offering flagship-level performance and features at a similar or even lower price point than the expected Pixel 9a.
The decision of whether to buy the discounted Pixel 8 or wait for the Pixel 9a ultimately depends on individual needs and priorities. If you are looking for a proven, high-performance smartphone with an excellent camera, a premium build, and guaranteed long-term software support, the Pixel 8 at its current price is an exceptional value proposition. The significant price cut effectively bridges the gap between a mid-range and a flagship device, making the Pixel 8 accessible to a wider range of consumers.
On the other hand, if you prioritize the latest chipset, a potentially larger battery, and are willing to compromise on some flagship features for a lower price (if the rumors are accurate), then waiting for the Pixel 9a might be the preferred option. The Pixel 9a is expected to offer improvements over its predecessor, the Pixel 8a, and could be a strong contender in the mid-range segment.
However, the current price of the Pixel 8 cannot be ignored. For the first time, consumers can purchase a genuine flagship Pixel phone for under Rs 50,000, a price point typically reserved for upper mid-range devices. This aggressive pricing from Google has undoubtedly shaken up the market and provided a fantastic opportunity for those who have been eyeing a Pixel flagship but were deterred by its original price.
As the clock ticks towards the Pixel 9a launch tomorrow, the massive price cut on the Pixel 8 has created an unexpected yet welcome dilemma for smartphone buyers in India. It is a clear signal that Google is serious about capturing a larger share of the market, offering premium technology at a more accessible price. Whether you choose to grab the Pixel 8 at its incredibly tempting price or wait to see what the Pixel 9a brings, one thing is certain: consumers are the ultimate winners in this scenario. The competition in the smartphone market is fierce, and Google’s latest move has just raised the stakes.
