Is this the winning formula for a smartphone today?

With consumers not actively seeking out new phones, the Google Pixel 9a makes a fresh pitch in an old-school way

- Shouvik Das

When Mint reviewed the Google Pixel 8a—launched 11 months ago—we found it to be perhaps the best smartphone to purchase at that time. Now, as the Google Pixel 9a (₹49,999) goes on sale in India, there is a strong case to be made for this new phone taking over that lofty mantle.

Sure, compare it with the Pixel 9 Pro lineup and you will see a clear difference between how the two phones look. But it's not a gulf in quality—both feel very well built and in fact the Pixel 9a somewhat feels more suave than its 'Pro' versions.

This minimalist design works well in today's consumer technology parlance. For the urbanite, aesthetics play a key role in everyday paraphernalia—from table lamps to water heaters. In this world, design-led firms are actively chasing the right amount of minimalism to make gadgets—typically perceived as cold and too technical—fit right into the idea of grounded, close-to-earth items around us.

The Google Pixel 9a feels gentle, calm and easygoing, especially in its 'Porcelain' colourway. Yes, the borders around the display are a touch too visible—but for everyday usage, this feels like a phone that won't need you to be specially careful about in terms of handling.