Google's finally taken the wraps off the Pixel 9a, its next midrange smartphone. On paper, it looks like a hell of a bargain: ...

Last year, we saw the first signs of Google purposefully differentiating the base Pixel models from its Pro equivalents, and ...

Because of the Pixel 9a’s 8GB RAM limitation, Google had to use its Gemini Nano 1.0 XXS (extra extra small) model. This imposes some usage limitations, and could also slow down Gemini access.

I tested both models for this review ... I wish the frame also came with a brushed metallic matte texture, like the Pixel 9's, but it's a moot point once you place the phone in a case.