Google Pixel 7a just tipped for three major upgrades

Pixel 7 hands-on
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

Two weeks ago, it was suggested that the rumored Pixel 7 Ultra might actually be a big set of enhancements to the Pixel 7a. It was a tricky circle to square: how could the entry-level model actually beat the Pixel 7 Pro?

Now, thanks to the developer and perpetual thorn in Google’s side Kuba Wojciechowski, things make a lot more sense. The long and short of it? The Pixel 7a is set for a series of big upgrades, but not quite the Pixel 7 Pro-eclipsing camera improvements that the original code dive suggested.

While seemingly confirming the original report’s findings that the codename Lynx referred to the Pixel 7a and not an Ultra or Mini model, Wojciechowski then went on to disappoint those hoping that the new ‘a’ model might outperform the Pro for photography.

“I have previously leaked the camera setup of Lynx: GN1+IMX787+IMX712 on the back,” he tweeted. “It appears that Google has modified that now, removing the GN1 lens.” 

That means that the Pixel 7a will likely contain a wide lens (IMX787) and an ultrawide lens (IMX712) but no dedicated telephoto lens, which makes a lot more sense.

See more

To be clear, this will still be a big camera improvement between Pixel's ‘a’ generations. “IMX787 is a huge upgrade over the old IMX363 and should make the 7a an even better choice for camera quality in the mid-range,” Wojciechowski tweeted.

And the good news keeps coming with Wojciechowski confirming another aspect of the original report: wireless charging. Only 5W wireless charging, which means it’ll take a while especially compared with the 20W offered by the premium Pixel 7s. But it’s better than nothing — which is exactly what you got with previous Pixel ‘a’ generations. 

On top of this, Wojciechowski has one big revelation: the Pixel 7a will apparently get a 90Hz Samsung panel. While, unusually, he doesn’t share his source here, the upgrade from 60Hz brings the Pixel 7a in line with the improved refresh rate on the basic Pixel 7, if not quite matching the 120Hz found in the Pixel 7 Pro. 

“If Google can maintain the $449 MSRP the 7a will most likely be a killer deal,” Wojciechowski concludes. “With a new display featuring high refresh rate, wireless charging, a brand new camera sensor and Google's usual software magic not many devices could compete, especially in the US.”

The big question is where this leaves the regular Pixel 7, which would look increasingly poor value with an MSRP that’s $150 higher. But then, this wouldn’t be the first time a Pixel ‘a’ device has offered far superior value to the more expensive models, as anybody who picked a Pixel 4a 5G over a Pixel 5 will recall. 

A lot also depends on when the Pixel 7a arrives. If, as seems possible, it’s unveiled during next year’s Google I/O event then the Pixel 7 will have been on shelves for at least eight months. That long into its life, Google may have no problem in cannibalizing its main phone with an exciting low-cost alternative.

TOPICS
Alan Martin

Freelance contributor Alan has been writing about tech for over a decade, covering phones, drones and everything in between. Previously Deputy Editor of tech site Alphr, his words are found all over the web and in the occasional magazine too. When not weighing up the pros and cons of the latest smartwatch, you'll probably find him tackling his ever-growing games backlog. Or, more likely, playing Spelunky for the millionth time.

Read more
Pixel 9a vs Pixel 7a side by side composite.
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 7a: Biggest differences explained
Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a specs just fully leaked ahead of iPhone 16E launch
Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a price just leaked — and it's way cheaper than iPhone 16e
close-up on cameras in a leaked Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a rumors — what Google’s planning as the iPhone 16e and Nothing Phone 3a ramp up the pressure
Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a leak just confirmed a major design change — here's the new look
Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a will have to fix one crucial thing to hold off its low-cost rivals
Latest in Google Phones
back of Iris Pixel 9a
The Google Pixel 9a is lacking one of the Pixel 9’s best safety features — here’s what we know
Google Pixel 9a with thumbs up and thumbs down icons
Google Pixel 9a — 5 reasons to buy and 3 reasons to skip
Pixel 9 Pro XL held in the hand with price drop badge.
Not a typo! This epic deal makes the flagship Pixel 9 Pro XL the same price as the budget Pixel 9a
Google Pixel 9a hands-on.
Pixel 9a’s on-device AI isn’t as good as the Pixel 9 — here’s what’s different
Google Pixel 9 Pro deal
Forget Pixel 9a — get the Google Pixel 9 Pro for $250 off at Best Buy right now
back of Iris Pixel 9a
Google Pixel 9a pre-orders delayed due to 'component quality issue' — here's when you can get one
Latest in News
Apple Watch Series 10
Future Apple Watch models could get a surprising new feature — what we know
iPhone 16 Pro vs iPhone 16 Pro Max in hand showing displays
Forget iPhone 17 — iPhone 18 could get this huge upgrade
The new Husqvarna iQ series robot lawn mower.
Husqvarna’s new robot mowers offer GPS for less
Rendered images of rumored foldable iPhone.
Foldable iPhone report just revealed key details — here's what we know
NYTimes Connections
NYT Connections today hints and answers — Sunday, March 23 (#651)
NYT Strands on a cellphone
NYT Strands today — hints, spangram and answers for game #385 (Sunday, March 23 2025)