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Google is expected to introduce the Pixel 9a model in the next few months and it is obviously going to face comparisons with the iPhone 16E
The iPhone 16E launch will have people worried about the Pixel 9a
Apple launched the iPhone 16E earlier this month, marking its exit from the supposed affordable segment. Google is going to be next in line with its mid-range offering in the form of Pixel 9a that is rumoured to launch in March. The iPhone 16E has generated excitement but displeasure in equal measure, and its Rs 60,000 price tag makes it anything but affordable. Google has already done this with the Pixel 8a model last year, priced upwards of Rs 50,000 for the first. But does the iPhone 16E launch mean Google has more leverage to go higher up the price ladder with the Pixel 9a?
Over To You, Google
The Pixel 8a launch in 2024 showed us a different strategy from Google, one that continues to confuse us. Why launch the so-called mid-range model close to the price of the flagship Pixel 8 with toned down features? The company did that and since then we have seen both the Pixel 8 and 8a price come down drastically via special online deals.
The iPhone 16E is a different exception because Apple is not making any claims of the model being as reliable as the flagship peers. Having said that, it has the flagship hardware and support for AI which makes it the ideal Pixel 9a rival this year. But then you also have the likes of Samsung Galaxy S24 or even the new S25 model available at a similar range.
Not Repeating The Mistakes
Google needs to accept that unlike Apple it cannot afford to go higher with the Pixel 9a launch price, and might even have to consider keeping it low or the same as its predecessor. After all, the Pixels don’t have the aspirational value of an iPhone for buyers, even if they only get a single camera, less bright display and a slightly underpowered hardware.
We liked the Pixel 8a for the overall package but the price was never going to make it a sure-shot winner.
Google has done it previously as well, and you only realise the value of the device when the price eventually drops, and we are hoping the Pixel 9a does not follow that trend this year as well. Is it going to be iPhone 16E vs Pixel 9a, not really but the comparisons are inevitable, especially if the company launches its mid-range at a higher price in the market.
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Delhi, India, India
