Tag: Pixel 8a

Tech Review – Google Pixel 8a

Having used the Google Pixel 8a some time now it is time to talk about how it has been for me over the last few months and as expected with Google devices they get better over time not that there was anything wrong to start with.

First up the design is nice and sits well in the hand and better than the 8 Pro I have come to prefer the smaller device however now for consuming media which is still fine on the 8a, the look and feel i better here and not hefty with soft edges not digging into your hands I like the smaller hump the key placement and the front of the device which has an equal bezels all the way around however on the large side.

This Google Pixel 8a has an aluminium chassis with a nice matte finish on the rear leaving no fingerprints on the back of the phone however we have had plenty of cases and skins to keep the phone in top shape.

Performance has been great over the last few months and  being a power user has not let me down at all and I do put my phones to the test with the amount of apps and work tasks performed on a daily basis and it is not by any means light compared to a casual user of such a phone and with the Tensor G3 you will not see any lag in your daily tasks if like me it just flies along. Biometrics are on board again and work well.

When it comes to the camera it is dam good as expected and a joy to use and till one of the top contenders for a point and shoot phone and with all the AI features thrown in the Pixel 8a is not just a camera or a phone it is a tool for work in my opinion. There is photo unblur, portrait blur, Best take, circle to search magic eraser,magic audio eraser, live translate, pixel recorder app and at a glance and much more to take your pic from and of course Google lens and all of which I use daily. There is no thermometer here this time which I found handy at home..

The display is decent too being 6.1” OLED display FHD+ 2400×1080 and 20:9 aspect ratio with an Actua display making it fine to use in daylight and you can tune the display up to 120Hz which for most will not notice this and it automatically done but it is nice to have on the 8a this time round.

Overall the Pixel 8a does not disappoint and surely will not at this stage and as always I will still carry a Pixel device as a daily driver all year round as they just work for me and suit my work flow and so fluid to use for anything I throw at it. Plus I am invested in a house full of Google products that now are outdated so Google need to give us new cameras and Doorbells soon.

10 things to know about the Google Pixel 8a

1 – Pixel 8a Colourful. Powerful. AI- full.

The Pixel 8a, engineered by Google. Take amazing photos with the Pixel Camera. Do more, even faster with Google AI – like fix blurry images, screen calls and learn new things. Top-rated security features help protect your data.1 All at a great price. Pixel 8a is bright and bold, and feels great in your hand. And it’s built to last.

2 – The most durable A- Series phone yet.

Pixel 8a is Google’s most durable A-Series phone yet, with a metal frame and camera bar. With IP67 protection, it can handle water and dust.It has a new scratch-resistant Actua display, and it’s made with recycled aluminium, glass and plastic. And it’s designed with a smooth finish and a matte back cover.

3 – Save time and do more with Google AI.

Pixel with Google AI makes it easy to get things done. Search for something just by circling it – an image or text, even in a video – right from the app that you’re in. Google AI finds it fast. Write messages quickly using your voice with Assistant voice
typing. Send messages in multiple languages with Live Translate And At a Glance shows useful info right when you need it, like travel updates, event tickets and more.

4 – Tensor G3: the same chip as Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

Google Tensor G3 is the next-gen processor custom-built for Pixel. It’s Google’s fastest, most efficient and secure chip yet – the same chip that’s in Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. It powers Google AI and advanced machine learning for amazing photo and video quality, improved audio on phone calls, speech recognition and security. It makes Pixel 8a fast, efficient and helpful.

5 – Incredible photos and videos with the Pixel Camera.

The Pixel Camera makes photos perfect, every time. It’s easy to take amazing pictures in low light with Night Sight. Thanks to Google AI, you can create perfect group shots with Best Take and fix blurry images with Photo Unblur.11 All skin tones
are represented beautifully and accurately with Real Tone photos and videos. And Pixel 8a includes Super Res Zoom for clear close-up portraits from far away.

6 – 7 years of security, OS and Feature Drop updates.

Pixel phones are built to last and get better over time. With your Pixel 8a, you’ll receive the latest OS and security updates for seven years, plus helpful new Feature Drops every few months.12

7 – The highest- rated security features.

With Google Tensor G3 and the certified Titan M2 security chip, all Pixel 8 phones are built with multiple layers of security to help keep your personal info safe.13 And they come with VPN by Google One built in to help protect your online activity no
matter what app or web browser you use. You can also use Face Unlock for more things, like app sign-ins and payments, thanks to Tensor’s advanced machine learning.

8 – Help making calls. And avoiding them.

Phone calls are easier with Pixel Call Assist, a set of features that help with everything from making calls to avoiding them.15 Your Pixel can now detect and filter out even more spam calls.16 If you’re too busy to pick up, Pixel can tell you who’s calling and why. Call Screen on Pixel can now suggest more contextual replies for you, so you can easily respond to unknown callers in a way that fits the situation, without having to take the call yourself.17 And with clear calling, Pixel reduces your caller’s background noise, so that you can hear them more clearly.

9 – Engineered by Google. For all that you do.

Pixel phones, tablets, watches and earbuds are powered by Google AI for personalised help throughout your day.19 So that you can save time, live healthier and get more done. Take stunning photos and videos, and easily edit them. Track your health and fitness with the power of Fitbit. And have peace of mind with Safety Check and Emergency SOS.20

10 – The best of Google, included with Pixel.

Pixel is easy to switch to, and it comes with the best of Google. Pixel 8a includes three months of YouTube Premium (then X per month), three months of Google One and six months of Fitbit Premium to help you get the most out of your new
Pixel. For new eligible users only. Recurring billing. Cancel anytime Google One keeps your photos and files safe with 100 GB of storage and automatic phone backup. And with YouTube Premium, you can enjoy YouTube videos and music without ads, in the background and offline. Give your motivation a healthy boost with six months of Fitbit Premium wellness content, including workouts, mindfulness sessions, healthy recipes and more.

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Tech Review – dbrand Google Pixel 8a Grip case and Skins

dbrand is a well known case and skins company who are very reputable and have a fantastic way of putting words to things even on social media which is great in my book they say it as they see just like me and move along swiftly often leaving a bitter taste in some people’s mouths that rightly deserve it and if you do not follow them on X you are missing out.

They have kindly sent me their newest Grip case and some skins for the all new Google Pixel 8a which I was delighted to receive after some email tennis which at first I thought was a wind up!..

It was not a wind up after all and I fucking love it that they have chosen a quite colourful character from Ireland to check out what they have to offer and we will get into it now as I have said enough..

OK so presentation is great with the Black box that opens out presenting you with some facts a cloth the grip case and skins more should do this as presentation is key but some will say it is only a case, that it maybe but first impressions last.

The first thing you will notice on taking out the Grip case is just how grippy it is and as a well season case reviewer this is the grippiest case I have held and you can be sure you will not drop this one with its textured microdots then along the sides you have got grip strips adding to the gripping power.

The buttons are tactile and work really well nice and clicky with good travel and work as expected with precision each time there is also some ridges on the volume keys on the case. A feature also not seen before is a chamfered lip and crescent arc which just makes life easier using the case over others, your fingers will love it.

All the cutouts are perfect for your ports and the camera area is well protected too, there is raised ridges on the back for the skins to be applied should you wish to install, I suggest you do as it will stop your case getting scratched.

Skins for the Pixel 8a

The back of the case is smooth to the finish but this is where the skins come in to spruce the look up and with a big range of eye catching colors you are not short of choice and the range I had to pick from was great and something for everyone here.

Yes you can still charge your phone wirelessly with no issues and I tested on several wireless chargers at home and one in my car so it works do not worry.

Overall the grippiest case I have tested with super cool skins and you should get so watch the flaming video below for the hands on experience and buy one.

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Video Review

 

Tech Review – Ringke case line-up rear lens protector and screen protector for the Google Pixel 8a

Next up we have the Ringke case line-up and their new rear lens protector and dual easy film protector for the Google Pixel 8a which in short will protect your phone front top to bottom and front to rear with the latest products they have on offer.

Havin used Ringke goods before on many devices you are in safe hands and what is new here that I like most is the new rear lens protector.

The cases already do a great job of protecting the entire camera bar on the rear which Google’s own case once again forgot on the 8a meaning it will be free from scratches. The lens cover is an extra measure to ensure the glass does not get damaged and ideal here for Pixel 8a.

We also have 4 cases to check out so we will leave all the links below as to what you prefer and all cases are good but there is some differences to be noted, they all work with wireless charging and give additional grip, the two clear cases has less texture on them for better grip so my two favourites are

This is subjective though on what one prefers as the clear cases let you see the phones color and still offer a decent lip around the front protecting the screen you could place them all face down and the keys again all tactile and work really well check the video below for more but the choice is yours.

Google Pixel 8a Case | Onyx

  • Tough heavy-duty protection case with a Ringke-exclusive design for the Google Pixel 8a.
  • Made of slim & lightweight TPU material for increased protection against impact and scratches.
  • Streamlined design with an anti-skid & anti-fingerprint granulate texture on the back and frame.
  • Duo-QuikCatch lanyard holes on each side of the device allow for the usage of accessories such as hand straps, wrist lanyards, and phone charms. (Additional accessories not included)
  • Supports wireless charging and screen protector compatibility.

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Google Pixel 8a Case | Fusion

  • Secure your Google Pixel 8a in a minimalist clear case to display the natural beauty of your device.
  • Durable hybrid case made of polycarbonate transparent back panel and TPU bumper frames.
  • Impact absorbent and lightweight design enhance grip-ability with minimal bulk.
  • Duo-QuikCatch lanyard holes on each side of the device allow for the usage of accessories such as hand straps, wrist lanyards, and phone charms. (Additional accessories not included)
  • Supports wireless charging and screen protector compatibility.

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Google Pixel 8a Camera Lens Protector | Glass (3 Pack)

  • Compatible with Google Pixel 8a
  • Shield your smartphone’s rear camera lens with a full-coverage glass protector
  • 5-Layer coating enhances efficiency and durability without adding extra bulk
  • Easy-to-install via clear adhesive for maximum transparency
  • Take clean pictures and videos through super-clear glass with zero flash interference.
  • Case-friendly design

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Google Pixel 8a Screen Protector | Dual Easy Film

 

  • Protect the Google Pixel 8a with a slim, lightweight film-type screen protector.
  • Made of high-performance EPU with self-healing properties, easy swipe feel, and fingerprint-resistant coating.
  • Full adhesive design reduces the chances of lifting after folding and guarantees a genuine touchscreen response.
  • 4-layer structure for maximum protection. Includes a transitory adhesive layer that removes dust and allows for multiple re-tries for the perfect alignment.
  • Case-friendly design. Complete your protection by pairing it with a Ringke case for a guaranteed fit!

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Video Review

Tech Review – TUDIA MergeGrip case for the Google Pixel 8a

It is Google Pixel 8a time and it is time to begin checking out some cases and first up it Tudia Products and their DualShield  MergeGrip case in several colours for the all new Pixel 8a.

I actually still have one of their cases on my Pixel 8 Pro and you can see the reviews for those cases here. Nothing has changed to the structure of the dual layered cases which is fine as they are a case I can vouch for as I use them all the time and have done for some time now, being dual layered gives you optimal protection and the softer TPU which is always a favourite of mine ensures full protection all round.

You have additional grip here with a textured back and grips on the sides and there is a nice lip on the front giving your screen some protection the raised camera bar on the back is also protected really well which will stop it getting marked as it is prone to them so with your new Tudia case on deck here your phone is in safe hands.

The cases also work with wireless charging which is great meaning there is no need to remove the case to charge your phone and if like me and have wireless chargers all over the house it is a win.

Overall you can’t go wrong with these cases and as mentioned I am a long time user and can certainly with ease recommend them to people no matter what device they have. Check out the Pixel 8a first look here too and check out the video review below.

 

Features

  • [Compatibility] Case compatible with Google Pixel 8a (2024) Only
  • [Drop Protection] Certified military grade protection and ToughRhino Technology for dual layer protection against drops and scratches
  • [Raised Edges Protection] Protects your camera and screen with raised lip and edges
  • [Enhanced Grip] Non-slip textured design on both sides and back provide additional grip while holding your phone
  • [Precise Design] Tactile and clicky buttons designed for stress-free usage
  • [Seamless Access] Gesture tap and wireless charging compatible

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Video Review

Google Pixel 8a unboxing walkthrough and first impressions

It is Pixel time of the year and of course the Pixel 8a has dropped in for us to check out and this time around with have a much more lively color which I love by the way in Bay Blue which looks great and stands out in the crowd, and before we go on we have some cases to check out as we always do and a new brand on board which is pretty exciting so stay tuned for that this week..

Out of the box the device stands out immediately and having it in my hands for a few days we will give you our first impressions and later on talk some more on the device, the 8a is a perfect size device dare I say coming from the Pixel 8 pro which I still use and love the 8a is offering more for your money this time around from previous (a) devices and I have seen some say get the Pixel 8 and why bother with this one and could they be right and google shooting themselves in the foot? I do not think so as if it was me sporting the 8 right now I would still go for the 8a.

The Pixel 8a has a better footprint and just looks better, OK I typically have the black versions so slightly biased on that front but the camera bar is smaller it feels better and just looks better and has all the features of the two superior models but nothing is better than a new phone and the pixel a series have always been solid for me and I end up sticking to them until the next version comes out which will be the 9 and have done so for years and as I have said many times I always have a Pixel phone on me but I test phones and try others over the course of the year like I am now but the Pixel always sticks with me, in fact I have just moved on my S24 Ultra because I got bored with it but bought that myself like most other devices and I carry an iPhone 15 pro which is a secondary device for obvious reasons but has to be said it is never a main device with a secondary testing sim inside.

With only a few days testing as mentioned this is just an initial first look and so far the device has been flawless given I would have much more going on my phone than others which in itself is taxing on any device. First thing to notice is the adaptive 120hz refresh rate and again I have been open about this most will not notice but as a seasoned phone reviewer I do and it is a good feature to have, the device is as expected fast and fluid or as some say buttery smooth.

Wireless transfer has got better, Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 Pro – techbuzzireland

The back of the Pixel 8a is finished with a matt finish meaning no smudges which is annoying for some and some have critiqued me before for saying so with products that leave fingerprints everywhere which is fine when most of us sport cases on our phones but not all but it is worth noting anyway and for the record I do often take the case of any phone at home where it safe to do so to get a real feel for a device.

The build quality is excellent with aluminium sides rather than plastic and feels better and more robust than previous A devices and with a 6.1 inch 430 ppi  OLED (actua) display it shines and great for media consumption and has a gorilla glass 3 screen which is fine and you have a screen protector on board.

The Pixel 8a features Magic Editor, Best Take and now Audio Magic Eraser which is ideal for content creators or even just the average user, with the AI features on Pixel devices they have grown in popularity over the years and provide simple to use tools for anyone and the cameras are again great with some samples below for now and we even got to see some of the northern lights for a few minutes which was not expected where I was.

 

Wireless charging (18w) is on board which for me is great but seems to be a bearbug with many folk these days when omitted and if like me with wireless charging docks all over the house and in my car it is a must have and mainly for convenience but as a tech guy I am lucky to be in a position where I have these chargers all over the place and adopted it early.

Overall for the past few days using this device very carefully with no case ( first time to take a phone out with no case but used carefully) I have been impressed so far and with the loads I put on my phones they are by no means used lightly with all the daily tasks I use my phones for with social media emails docs web browsing and other calls with Google meet zoom and teams it has proven again a worthy device so far.

Battery life I can’t comment on just yet as I have not had it long enough to give a good indication vs older models but over the last few days it has been solid enough but not put to the full test due to being off at an event and a wedding plus embargo reasons and not on full view but so far so good and I would not expect anything less, stay tuned for more on the Pixel 8a and case reviews coming this week and then I will be going full on with this device loaded up to the hilt with apps as you will see in the unboxing video below and again now already can say it will be a daily driver until the next model arrives.

Google Pixel 8a – techbuzzireland – jim o brien

10 things to know about the Google Pixel 8a

1 – Pixel 8a Colourful. Powerful. AI- full.

The Pixel 8a, engineered by Google. Take amazing photos with the Pixel Camera. Do more, even faster with Google AI – like fix blurry images, screen calls and learn new things. Top-rated security features help protect your data.1 All at a great price. Pixel 8a is bright and bold, and feels great in your hand. And it’s built to last.

2 – The most durable A- Series phone yet.

Pixel 8a is Google’s most durable A-Series phone yet, with a metal frame and camera bar. With IP67 protection, it can handle water and dust.It has a new scratch-resistant Actua display, and it’s made with recycled aluminium, glass and plastic. And it’s designed with a smooth finish and a matte back cover.

3 – Save time and do more with Google AI.

Pixel with Google AI makes it easy to get things done. Search for something just by circling it – an image or text, even in a video – right from the app that you’re in. Google AI finds it fast. Write messages quickly using your voice with Assistant voice
typing. Send messages in multiple languages with Live Translate And At a Glance shows useful info right when you need it, like travel updates, event tickets and more.

4 – Tensor G3: the same chip as Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

Google Tensor G3 is the next-gen processor custom-built for Pixel. It’s Google’s fastest, most efficient and secure chip yet – the same chip that’s in Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. It powers Google AI and advanced machine learning for amazing photo and video quality, improved audio on phone calls, speech recognition and security. It makes Pixel 8a fast, efficient and helpful.

5 – Incredible photos and videos with the Pixel Camera.

The Pixel Camera makes photos perfect, every time. It’s easy to take amazing pictures in low light with Night Sight. Thanks to Google AI, you can create perfect group shots with Best Take10 and fix blurry images with Photo Unblur.11 All skin tones
are represented beautifully and accurately with Real Tone photos and videos. And Pixel 8a includes Super Res Zoom for clear close-up portraits from far away.

6 – 7 years of security, OS and Feature Drop updates.

Pixel phones are built to last and get better over time. With your Pixel 8a, you’ll receive the latest OS and security updates for seven years, plus helpful new Feature Drops every few months.12

7 – The highest- rated security features.

With Google Tensor G3 and the certified Titan M2 security chip, all Pixel 8 phones are built with multiple layers of security to help keep your personal info safe.13 And they come with VPN by Google One built in to help protect your online activity no
matter what app or web browser you use. You can also use Face Unlock for more things, like app sign-ins and payments, thanks to Tensor’s advanced machine learning.

8 – Help making calls. And avoiding them.

Phone calls are easier with Pixel Call Assist, a set of features that help with everything from making calls to avoiding them.15 Your Pixel can now detect and filter out even more spam calls.16 If you’re too busy to pick up, Pixel can tell you who’s calling and why. Call Screen on Pixel can now suggest more contextual replies for you, so you can easily respond to unknown callers in a way that fits the situation, without having to take the call yourself.17 And with clear calling, Pixel reduces your caller’s background noise, so that you can hear them more clearly.

9 – Engineered by Google. For all that you do.

Pixel phones, tablets, watches and earbuds are powered by Google AI for personalised help throughout your day.19 So that you can save time, live healthier and get more done. Take stunning photos and videos, and easily edit them. Track your health and fitness with the power of Fitbit. And have peace of mind with Safety Check and Emergency SOS.20

10 – The best of Google, included with Pixel.

Pixel is easy to switch to, and it comes with the best of Google. Pixel 8a includes three months of YouTube Premium (then X per month), three months of Google One and six months of Fitbit Premium to help you get the most out of your new
Pixel. For new eligible users only. Recurring billing. Cancel anytime Google One keeps your photos and files safe with 100 GB of storage and automatic phone backup. And with YouTube Premium, you can enjoy YouTube videos and music without ads, in the background and offline. Give your motivation a healthy boost with six months of Fitbit Premium wellness content, including workouts, mindfulness sessions, healthy recipes and more.

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Unboxing and walkthrough