I’ve tested all of Google’s cheaper Android phones – Pixel 9a will be the best yet thanks to major design overhaul

THE Google Pixel 8a was only released five months ago and there's already talk of a new budget-friendly successor.

I've been testing the Google Pixel ever since the first version burst onto the scene in 2016.

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The cheaper A range didn't arrive until 2019, starting with the Pixel 3a.

Google Pixel's market share is still very small compared to Samsung and iPhone but it is gradually growing.

Part of that boost is down to the A range, with increasingly higher level features you'd expect on a premium phone without the hefty price tag.

The latest Google Pixel 8a costs £499 / $499.

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In my review, I praised its camera and the introduction of genuinely useful AI features like Magic Editor to remove objects you don't want visible in a shot and Best Take for better smiles.

But we're already seeing leaked images of the next in line, the Google Pixel 9a.

We've only just seen the main Google Pixel 9 series, which also included a new foldable.

If renders published by are anything to go by, this could be the best Pixel A yet simply due to a design change.

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One of the elements I've not liked about the latest Google Pixels is the ever bulging camera compartment on the back.

In the Pixel 9, it's a rounded square that protrudes a bit too much.

But it looks like Google might slim things down drastically on the 9a.

The first look renders suggest the camera will be embedded into the device rather than poking out.

It appears to be nearly flush with only a small ring around it that comes out slightly.

If this does turn out to be true, it'll be quite the change from the bulk we've become used to on Pixels.

But this will come at a price - judging by the images, the Pixel 9a will be thicker overall.

Aside from these tweaks, the device still screams Pixel with the distinctive G logo on the back.

We won't find out officially what the Pixel 9a will look like for quite some time yet - Pixel A range phones don't usually launch until May, so there's a whole eight months to wait.

Should I wait for the Pixel 9a?

By Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun

The Pixel A series is a decent mid-range smartphone that won't break the bank.

And the beauty of it is the handset doesn't feel cheap and nasty either.

However, it would be unwise to hold out for the Pixel 9a just yet.

Firstly, it's not even been officially announced by Google - the tech giant may have a change of strategy and decide not to release a more budget-friendly phone again.

Secondly, the Pixel 8a is a mere few months old as it is and offers lots to love at £499 / $499.

If you're looking for an even cheaper Android phone that's not a Google Pixel, check out my recent round-up of must-know alternatives.