Category: Pixel
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Google's Pixels are Apple's TVs
“Google treats its entire Pixel portfolio like Apple treats Apple TV hardware. They make the best parts of it available on other platforms, greatly reducing the perceived value of their own hardware. Why switch to a Pixel when almost all of Google’s apps are available on iOS? Why switch to an Apple TV box when the TV app and iTunes Store are built into your “smart” TV?”
This is something I’ve understood for as long as owning a Google Nexus. I’ve always wondered how Google approaches hardware development, especially given their lack of the kind of exclusive ecosystem that Apple cultivates. Even other Android OEMs have some unique features. That just wasn’t Google’s culture in building its products. Google is synonymous with software, encompassing products like Search, YouTube, Gmail, and Android. We’re nearing the 10th generation of the Google Pixel. Hiroshi Lockheimer’s prediction that “eight years from now we’ll be talking about Oct 4, 2016” has already passed. October 4th, the release date of the original Google Pixel, was what many, including myself, assumed he was referencing. However, it’s now 2025, nearly ten years later, and Google’s Pixel has only achieved a 4% market share, according to Counterpoint Research. However, it still feels like gaining market share in their hardware isn’t Google’s main goal. News broke from 9to5Mac analyst Aaron Perris that Google’s Gemini AI is coming to iOS next to Siri in a future update. Echoing Gruber’s analogy, this demonstrates Google making its key Pixel features available on other platforms.
I think Google needs to better articulate the value proposition of the Pixel to its existing customers, let alone attract new customers in carrier stores. Perhaps a renewed focus on hardware exclusivity, or a clearer articulation of Pixel-specific benefits, is needed.
Google Pixel 8a Review: A Year Later
"Size matters not. Look at me. Judge me by my size, do you?" - Yoda, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back.
Having followed Google’s Pixel line since its inception in 2016, from the original Pixel to the latest Pixel 9 Pro (and even the Pixel Fold), I’ve developed a deep appreciation for Google’s contributions to the smartphone market. My experience with iPhones (6, 6s, X, Xs, and 12) has further broadened my perspective. However, it’s the budget Android segment, a significant portion of global smartphone sales, that truly captivates me. The Pixel 8a, initially released at $499 but now available for $300-$400 a year later, offers amazing value: a device promising six more years of feature updates.
The Pixel 8a immediately feels comfortable in hand. It’s easy to handle, not prone to slipping, and not overly heavy or clunky. While it lacks the premium feel of my Pixel 9 Pro, it possesses a reassuring solidity. It’s like a familiar, comforting tool. The matte back feels surprisingly sturdy, almost like a warm porcelain countertop. The buttons offer a satisfying “click,” though they betray the phone’s budget origins slightly, lacking the springy resistance of a higher-end device. Even after a year of use, the click persists. Crucially, one-handed use is a breeze, even for my (slightly above average) sized hands; reaching all four corners of the screen is effortless. It’s not a “mini” phone, but it disappears comfortably into a back pocket, sometimes even flipping around due to its manageable size.
The feel of a phone is paramount, as smartphones are deeply personal devices that perform a multitude of general and specialized tasks throughout our day. They need to feel approachable, relatable, and human – an extension of ourselves, not an interruption. The Pixel 8a achieves this beautifully, particularly with its matte finish and flat display. There’s no awkwardness in holding it; the curvature simply settles into your hand. Unlike some flagship phones that scream “luxury item,” the 8a feels like a tool – one you appreciate more when you consciously focus on its thoughtful design.
I particularly appreciate the rounded edges, reminiscent of a perfectly smooth doorknob. The camera bar, while subtle, is a minor point of contention. It creates a slight disruption, particularly when the phone is in a case (even official Google cases), unlike the more integrated camera module of the Pixel 9 Pro. But the color options – especially the Bay and Aloe (though my wife prefers the Porcelain of our review unit) – are absolutely delightful. My main design quibble is the bezels. While not overly large, they are noticeable. I prefer a more minimalist approach, though I understand the need for some bezel.
The Pixel “a” series, following the pattern of the 3a after the 3, the 4a after the 4, and so on, continues with the 8a. It borrows heavily from the Pixel 8, with some compromises in camera hardware, display, and (in previous years) wireless charging. However, the line between the “a” series and the mainline Pixels is blurring, especially with price fluctuations. The 8a’s $499 launch price often overlaps with discounted Pixel 8 prices, sometimes making the 8a seem redundant. The Pixel 8a is, at its core, a budget-friendly Pixel 8. It retains the flagship-level software experience – the AI smarts, the Google Photos magic – but packages it in more affordable hardware.
In real-world use, the differences between the 8a, the 8, and even my 9 Pro are subtle but noticeable. Performance-wise, both share the Tensor G3 chip, so general usage feels snappy. However, the reduced RAM in the 8a becomes noticeable during processing-intensive tasks like Magic Editor edits, which take slightly longer. The camera compromises are most apparent in ultrawide (.5x) shots, where the 8a’s limitations become clear. While not a “camera hero,” Google’s AI processing delivers surprisingly good results, even compared to the 9 Pro’s wide-angle lens.
The display is excellent for its price. While it struggles in direct sunlight, it’s bright enough for most conditions. And the 120Hz refresh rate is a welcome addition, making the transition from my 9 Pro far less jarring than it could have been. Battery life is adequate. I found myself reaching for a charger sooner than usual, though my use of Pixel Stands mitigates this. The “Limit to 80%” battery optimization feature is a welcome addition for long-term battery health.
The under-display fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable. While not as instantaneous as the ultrasonic sensor on the 9 Pro, it’s perfectly adequate for everyday use. And the software? This is where the 8a truly shines. A year after its release, Pixel Feature Drops continue to enhance the experience, bringing features typically reserved for the premium Pro models. With seven years of software support guaranteed, the 8a is a long-term investment.
The 8a comes in 128GB and 256GB storage options. I chose the 128GB version, relying on my 2TB Google One cloud storage and Google Photos. The display size is a sweet spot for me. It’s not too small to be considered “mini,” nor so large that I need my Pixel Tablet. It fits comfortably in my hand and pocket. My wife, coming from an iPhone 13 Mini, finds it a significant upgrade in size and usability. The size and design make taking photos and videos easy. It’s simple to pull the phone out of a pocket. However, the bezels, while not a major issue overall, become slightly distracting when composing shots with specific framing in mind. The 8a’s pricing is a bit confusing. Its $499 launch price often overlapped with discounted Pixel 8 prices, making the choice less clear. This underscores the need for potential buyers to compare prices and features between the 8a and the 8 (or consider waiting for the 9a). I helped my parents purchase their Pixel 8a phones, and they absolutely love them, capturing surprisingly good photos (even of a heron on their deck!) without needing to be photography experts or spend a fortune. This exemplifies the 8a’s target audience: users who appreciate a good camera and a smooth Android experience without breaking the bank.
The main trade-offs with the 8a compared to the Pixel 8 are the camera sensor size (affecting light capture and detail), the RAM (impacting AI processing speed), and the more visible bezels. If these aren’t deal-breakers, and the Pixel 8 isn’t cheaper, the 8a is an excellent choice. The ideal Pixel 8a user wants a smooth, reliable Android experience with a great camera for the price, and values long-term software support. They might be upgrading from an older phone, seeking the best mid-range value, or prefer a smaller, more manageable device.
I recommend the Pixel 8a, especially given its continued software support, future feature drops, solid battery life, and affordable prices on platforms like Swappa. Even a year later, the software remains snappy, demonstrating Google’s commitment to the “a” series. I’m confident the Pixel 8a will age well, thanks to Google’s seven-year update commitment and features like Battery Optimization. It’s a phone that surpasses expectations for its size and price, delivering a surprisingly premium experience in a comfortable package.
Disclosure: I am a member of the Google Pixel Superfans community, which is an invitation-only program for Pixel enthusiasts. As a Superfan, I sometimes receive early access to information or products, and I may attend exclusive events. However, I was not compensated for this review, and the opinions expressed here are entirely my own. I did [or did not] receive a review unit of the Pixel 8a.
I thought you might like this great deal from Google Store’s Referral Program. Use code REF-UHEQJ35YXIX9HQRXK0LZS66 at checkout! More details on the program can be found here: store.google.com/ideas/pix…
Google Opens One of it's Largest Offices in Bengaluru
Google normally opens retail stores near it’s offices. With rumors spreading that Google is opening it’s first international retail store in India, Google has officially announced the opening of one of it’s largest offices globally:
Anand Rangarajan, Vice President, Google Deepmind
Sunil Rao, Vice President, Global Delivery, Google Cloud India
“India has always played the role of a strategic nerve centre in the tech discourse—this is evident in the thriving startup and app ecosystems, the digital public infrastructure that’s transforming life for hundreds of millions of Indians, and the depth and diversity of Indian creators.
For two decades, we have been proud to play a role in facilitating this transformation further—through AI-powered flood forecasting, specialized AI models to catch tuberculosis early, and helping millions of people join the formal economy with Google Pay, to name just a few examples.
Increasingly, we have been building from India, for the world.
Today, we are excited to share another major milestone in our ongoing commitment to India, with the inauguration of Ananta—one of Google’s largest offices globally.”
Google usually announces a new retail store at one of their hardware announcements. With the Pixel 9a coming soon, I wouldn’t be surprised if Google announces the new India store with it.
Google to Open First Physical Stores in India
Google counts India as a key growth market, where it has committed to investing $10 billion. It currently has only five physical stores, all in the United States, which sell its products such as Pixel phones, watches and earbuds.
It is aiming to mirror a retail approach that helped Apple Inc, opens new tab rake in billions of dollars in the last two decades by showcasing its own products. Apple has 500 plus stores worldwide.
Google is in advanced stages of finalising locations in or around the capital of New Delhi, and the financial capital Mumbai, said three sources, who declined to be named as the process is confidential.
Google’s decision to open physical stores in India signals its ambition to increase its market share in the country. While specific sales figures for India are not readily available, Google’s current market share in the premium smartphone segment is estimated to be around 5% as of 2024. This represents a significant jump from the approximately 1% share it held in 2023.
This move into physical retail could be a game-changer for Google in India, allowing the company to showcase its products directly to consumers and build a stronger brand presence. It remains to be seen whether Google can replicate the success of Apple’s retail strategy, but the company’s investment in India suggests it is serious about making a mark in this rapidly growing market.
"Princess and the Frog" Magic with the Pixel 8 Pro
My cousin’s sweet sixteen photoshoot was a special project, and I wanted to capture her unique spirit and personality. Inspired by “The Princess and the Frog,” we explored whimsical poses and angles throughout Old Town Occoquan.
To achieve the desired effect, I relied heavily on the Pixel 8 Pro’s versatile camera system. To highlight her expressions, I opted for the natural bokeh achieved through the phone’s zoom capabilities (1x and 5-10x), avoiding the artificial look of Portrait mode. The Peaking feature was essential for precise manual focus on her face, ensuring sharp details amidst the whimsical movements.
Beyond focus, capturing the right mood and lighting was crucial. Using the Pro-mode controls, I adjusted shadows and brightness to highlight her features without compromising her natural complexion. The magic continued in post-processing with Google Photos.
The Magic Editor effortlessly removed distracting elements like trash cans and light posts, while a touch of vignette added a final touch of mystique, drawing attention to her captivating expressions..
This photoshoot was more than just a technical exercise; it was a chance to connect with my cousin and celebrate her transition into womanhood. You can read more about the experience and what it meant to me on my personal blog.
Google's SafetyCore: Your Phone's New AI Bouncer (with a Side of Truth)
So there has been a lot of online chatter about Google’s newly released app called Android System SafetyCore that’s being downloaded on a lot Android devices. Mostly Android 9+ devices. And there’s been a lot of misinformation about it so I figured I’d provide more correct information on the web about it. In short, it’s like having a bouncer for your phone. You can read the entire blog post from Google about it on their Security Blog, but I’ll try to explain in less detail. In short, Google lists the following new protections:
- Enhances detection protects you from package delivery and job scams.
- Intelligent warnings alert you about potentially dangerous links.
- Controls to turn off messages from unknown international senders.
- Sensitive Content Warnings give you control over seeing and sending images that may contain nudity.
- More confirmation about who you’re messaging.
So this bouncer uses AI to spot shady stuff like spam, scams, malware, and even those NSFW pics (yikes!) in your messages and apps. The best part? It does all this without snitching to Google or anyone else. Think of it like a super-smart security guard who can spot trouble without calling the cops. By not snitching to Google or anyone else or calling the cops, it’s not sending your information to anyone. ANYONE.
Now, some people have been mistakenly thinking, “Isn’t this like that client-side scanning thing Apple tried to pull?” Nah, not even close. That was all about scanning your pics and reporting potentially illegal stuff, which was a major privacy no-no.
Android’s SafetyCore is different. It keeps everything on your phone and doesn’t share anything with anyone. It’s more like Apple’s Communication Safety feature in iMessage, which warns kids about sensitive content but doesn’t share anything with Apple.
Unfortunately, like I said, there’s been some misinformation floating around about SafetyCore, with some folks calling it “spyware.” But that’s simply not true. As the privacy-focused folks at GrapheneOS put it:
The app doesn’t provide client-side scanning used to report things to Google or anyone else. It provides on-device machine learning models usable by applications to classify content as being spam, scams, malware, etc. This allows apps to check content locally without sharing it with a service and mark it with warnings for users.
The GrapheneOS team are experts in this field, and they clearly state that SafetyCore doesn’t share your data. So, you can rest assured that your privacy is protected.
The GrapheneOS team does wish Google would make the whole thing open source, which would increase transparency and trust. I agree with this too, but here’s the thing: apps have been able to do this AI security stuff for a while now, but they usually send your data to their servers. SafetyCore keeps everything local, which is a big win for privacy.
Okay, so circling back to that “not snitching to the cops” part: SafetyCore isn’t about reporting illegal stuff to the authorities. It’s simply about giving your phone the ability to spot potentially harmful stuff and give you a heads up. Remember that and take that how you will.
So, there you have it! The TL;DR is Google’s Android System SafetyCore seems like a pretty sweet deal for boosting your phone’s security and privacy. Don’t let the misinformation scare you away from a potentially useful tool. It’ll be interesting to see how it evolves and how other apps start using it.
The Price of Late Refinement: How Android's Early Hardware Struggles Still Impact the Ecosystem
I had a good conversation with Ankit Gupta on Threads where he brought up something interesting:
One of the major issues Android faced early on while trying to compete with iPhone/iOS was build quality of Android phones. After a few years, Google finally decided to step up and partnered with some OEMs to manufacture their Nexus phones; even bought Motorola. Overall, I would argue that Google is still paying the price of not having good hardware manufacturers for Android at the get go. The conversation started here but was really led by Google potentially doing the same thing with their self-driving technology with Waymo and not partnering with the right partners or better yet making their own car like Tesla and Rivian.
Google’s initial approach with Android seems to stem from a lack of hardware experience at a time when hardware was the primary focus. Google represents the progression and evolution of Microsoft’s focus on software. However, in today’s information age, if Google had focused on hardware earlier and failed, would their brand recognition and hardware be stronger today? I think so. Nevertheless, I’m unsure if Android would have achieved its current scale with numerous OEMs if Google had solely controlled everything and prioritized its own hardware.
It’s obviously a game of what-ifs, but maybe in an alternative universe, Google started the Pixel line before even the inception of Nexus. Which would not only help with the brand recognition in the long run, but would cause Steve Jobs to really pop a blood vessel.
Happy Valentine’s Day 💌
And shout-out to the Android users who are in relationships ‘customized’ just for you two. You all found the perfect match, just like your personalized home screen. 😀
Breaking Out of Basic
I’m Finally Embracing Colorful Tech
For years, I’ve been a creature of habit when it comes to my tech. Black phone, black watch, maybe a black case if I was feeling wild. It’s not that I dislike black – it’s classic, sleek, and goes with everything. But lately, I’ve been feeling…bored. Like my tech accessories are starting to look as dull as my winter wardrobe.
Then, something happened. I was hanging out with my friend Rob, and we were admiring his white Pixel 9 Pro. Side-by-side with my black one, it looked so fresh and modern! Suddenly, I had a pang of phone envy. Unfortunately, I’m locked into my Verizon plan, so a spontaneous phone swap was out of the question. But it got me thinking…why do I always choose black?
I realized it’s partly about convenience. Black matches everything, so I never have to worry about clashing colors. But it’s also about playing it safe. Choosing a colorful phone feels like a commitment, like I’m stuck with that color forever. What if I get tired of it? What if it doesn’t match my outfits? But you know what? I’m ready to take a risk. I’m tired of blending in with the crowd. I want my tech to reflect my personality, my mood, my vibe. And that means embracing color!
I’m starting small. I’m thinking of getting a few different watch bands in fun colors. It’s a small change, but it makes a big difference! I can swap them out depending on my mood, or even match them to what I’m wearing. Maybe a bright green band for days I need a little extra energy, or a cool blue one for when I want to feel calm and focused. And speaking of outfits, I realized I already incorporate color into my wardrobe for special occasions. If I’m going to a Suns game, I’ll piece together some orange. If I’m cheering on the Lakers, it’s all about the purple and gold. So why not do the same with my tech? A yellow phone case to match a purple shirt? A lime green watch band to complement my Suns gear? It’s all about having fun and expressing myself!
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Michael, you’re still rocking a black phone!” And you’re right. I’ve still got payments to make on my Pixel 9 Pro. But that doesn’t mean I can’t start planning for the future. I’m already eyeing those new Samsung Galaxy colors, and the next time I upgrade my Pixel, I’m definitely going for something outside of black or white.
In the meantime, I’ll be experimenting with colorful cases. It’s the perfect way to dip my toes into the world of color without taking the plunge. Who knows, maybe I’ll even get a white one, like Rob’s!
The Rob Saga continues 😁
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