Google I/O 2020 dates are out: Annual event to kick off on May 12

What's New?

Pixel 3a was unveiled at the 2019 Google I/O event today. The Pixel 3a came with major upgrades from its predecessor. The new smartphone sports a better camera, a smarter Google Assistant and also has Digital well-being features. Here's a sneak peak into the specifications of Google's Pixel 3a.

Setting Up The Pixel 3a

To begin with, users need to connect with WiFi to setup certain features of the device. An already embedded eSIM lets users setup a connection as soon as the device is powered on.It facilitates quick transfer of data from previous devices with the help of Quick Switch Adapter. It comes up automatically as the device is logged in and can also be done with a USB-C to USB-C cable. After this, users can proceed with the setup while the transfer takes place in the background. The device supports transfer from iOS 8 and higher, and Android Lollipop and higher.For iOS users, the device supports transfer of calendar appointments (local/iCloud), contacts (local/iCloud), messages (iMessage/SMS), music (non-DRM) and photos/videos (local on iPhone). Users must turn iMessage off before removing the SIM card.For Android users, it supports transfer of apps, app data (for compatible apps) contacts (local/SIM), device settings, Google accounts, music (non-DRM), photos/videos (local on device), call history and SMS.The device sports a Setup Pixel Imprint for unlocking the device. A PIN, password or pattern is also required as backup.Make sure that all Google services are enabled during the setup. This facilitates features like Smart Storage and location services. In-box charger is recommended for fast charging.The Pixel Tips App is built in to give users an overview of the device. From location of apps to their organisation, it offers an overall guide for the phone.Pixel 3a users will also get Youtube Music Premium service for three months for free. The offer is valid on devices activated by September 30, 2019, in countries where the service is available.

Lockscreen, Launcher, Display

Always on DisplayPixel 3a sports an Always on Display feature. Users can see the time, date and notifications with just a glance. If a new notification comes up, it will blink for a few seconds before turning into an icon.Display Color ModesFor this device, the default colour is set to 'Adaptive' mode for natural rendition of colours preferred by most users. Those who prefer muted colours can use 'Natural' (sRGB) and the 'Boosted' (sRGB + 10%) modes. The brightness management technology is where the phone's display automatically adapts to changing lighting conditions.Now PlayingThe Now Playing feature, when turned on with Always on Display, tells users the name of the song and the artist of music playing nearby. Now Playing History lets users revisit the songs they've already heard and discover new tracks. With this feature, users can also play music videos on YouTube, add it to playlist, open in Assistant, and share. The recognition can also be done offline.At-a-GlanceOnce unlocked, the device displays At-a-Glance space which lets users see latest updates about the weather, calendar events and more.Quick searchThis feature, present at the bottom of the home screen, lets users search anything on the phone or on the web. Notification dots are present to alert users if a new message or email comes. Dual stereo speakers facilitate full sound experience tuned by a Grammy award-winning company and music producer.

​Inside The Camera

The mode switcherPixel 3a sports a new mode switcher which makes it easier and faster to switch camera modes while shooting. Another noteworthy feature is the double wrist-twisting to switch to front face camera. Portrait mode and Super Res Zoom are also the camera setup highlights.Time LapseThis feature records a video by capturing 6 frames per second to one frame in 4 seconds. This way, it creates the effect of a sped-up video at 30 frames per second.Night SightThis feature facilitates low-light camera shooting. It uses software instead of flash and tripods to capture vibrant, detailed low-light photos.Photobooth ModeThis feature now comes with the ability to capture a kiss. The feature recognises smiles, kisses, funny faces along with the lighting and motion. It offers a hands-free photo experience.Top ShotThis feature captures additional moments while users conduct a shoot. It uses machine learning to recommend the best shot from the moment it was captured. It also has the ability to detect blur, gaze and focus to recommend good shots.PlaygroundThis feature lets users insert Playmojis in pictures and videos. Some of the latest Playmojis include a Childish Gambino.Fused Video StabilizationThis feature allows users to shoot videos like a pro. It works only with the rear camera. However, the 'digital video stabilization' is now enabled for the front camera.Motion Auto FocusThis feature allows users to stay focused on the main subject in the frame. Users just need to tap on the object that needs to be in focus; a white circle appears around it and stays locked on it.Super Res ZoomThis feature ensures that every detail in zoomed in pictures remains sharp and clear. It uses hand movements to add resolution to zoomed shots. The new Pixel device also lets users save RAW files along with JPEGs.Flip cameraWith a double twist, users can switch to the front-facing or rear-facing camera.Gesture NavigationThe new feature is introduced on Android 9 Pie and makes navigation around the device and between the apps easier.

What's With Google Lens

Packed with new functionality, the Pixel 3a features a tighter integration with Google Lens. With this, users can search for similar clothing, home décor, identify landmarks and animals with the help of the camera. This one requires an internet connected.