Before this pandemic, Google used to introduce a new version of its lower-cost A-series smartphone, pretty much around the same time when its Google I/O developers conference takes place. Google may return to that launch timeline with the new Pixel 6a. It could also be accompanied by the long-anticipated Pixel Watch, along with a wallet-friendly HD version of its Chromecast with a Google TV dongle.
As per leaker Max Jambor, Google’s budget Pixel 6a is likely to be revealed in May. This is typically when Google hosts its annual developer’s conference. Which is likely to take place this year, either virtual or in person. Google, however, has not made an official announcement.
Rumors about Google Pixel 6
The rumors have been floating regarding the 6a, it is expected to have a 6.2-inch display that is slightly smaller than the one Pixel 5a has. The screen has a 60Hz refresh rate rather than the rumored 120Hz. However, the lower refresh rate might mean better battery life. Along with the Pixel 6a’s potential 4,800 mAh battery, this would make the phone compete with more entry-level launches from brands like Motorola. Which tend to dial down essential specs, for example, processing power to elongate the battery life.
However, the Google Pixel 6a could have a homemade Tensor chip like the flagship. Its ability is unclear, however. The Tensor chip would help enable camera smarts, it being a reason why folks tend to choose the A-series over other middle-of-the-road Android devices. We might possibly get a 12.2-megapixel primary camera, a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, along with an 8-megapixel selfie camera for the Pixel 6a. It is expected the design may be taken from the flagship siblings, as well as the multiple camera array on the backside.
This is likely to accompany the Pixel Watch. Last month, Jon Prosser showed off renders of the Android smartwatch, and it has built up the hype of the probability of a major hardware dump from Google.
Another Chromecast dongle with Google TV is also expected to be added to the hardware.
Leaks point towards the Chromecast having an Amlogic S805X2 CPU with a Mali-G31 GPU. It supports AV1 decoding, which Google has been pushing heavily. This is essentially a royalty-free open-source video codec that is efficient for networks with low bandwidths. This is what Google uses with the Duo video chat.
It’s likely the new Chromecast will only stream at a 1080p/60fps resolution, which could make it competitively priced against the competition. It would add to the list of more affordable streaming devices in Google’s first-party lineup.
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