The Google Pixel 9a redesign is arguably the most drastic change we've seen to the Pixel lineup since the 2021 Pixel 6 added a camera bar — not counting the foldables. What made Google choose this new water-drop camera cutout, and is it the new normal for Pixels? Google gave us several justifications for the change and a hint of what to expect from the Pixel 10.
As our Pixel 9a hands-on shows, this new budget phone has ditched the camera bar and rounded edges for a flatter, machine-cut look. The dual rear cameras jut out from the plastic matte back in a teardrop shape inspired by the Pixel Watch 3 display aesthetic instead of resting inside an aluminum bar.
