The Google Pixel 7a could get one massive usability upgrade

It would make the cheap Google Pixel phone a much more appealing option

Google Pixel 6A review
(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)

The Google I/O event is just a few weeks away, and many are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the companies' new budget option, the Google Pixel 7a. It's predecessor, the Google Pixel 6a, is widely regarded as one of the best cheap phones on the market right now, so expectations are high.

Now, popular tech tipster, SnoopyTech, has shared images of the Pixel 7a – and it shows one big upgrade coming to the handset. Shots of the menu screen on the handset show options for Face Unlock. That's a massive upgrade.

The Pixel 6a was only unlockable with an under-display fingerprint sensor. For some, that's still a preferred option, but others will love the prospect of facial recognition, which tends to be a more seamless experience.

Elsewhere, the Pixel 7a is rumoured to feature a host of upgrades over the previous generation. A camera upgrade is reportedly in the works, with a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide unit on the rear. There's also suggestions that wireless charging will feature, while a new 90Hz display should offer a smoother viewing experience.

We've also seen a host of leaked colour options. Alongside the standard fare White and Black, there's a rather fetching Blue option. We've also seen a Coral option, which is rumoured to be a Google Store exclusive.

Personally, I'm really excited by this handset. Despite being a budget option, Google seems to be packing some really great tech into the Pixel 7a. Getting the same Tensor G2 chipset found in their flagship Google Pixel 7 Pro, with a camera array that outstrips the Google Pixel 7 in terms of raw megapixels proves that this isn't just a stunted variation.

There's only a few weeks to go before this is unveiled – alongside other rumoured goodies like the Google Pixel Fold. I doubt this will be the last leak we see, either, so keep your eyes peeled for more as the event draws nearer.

Sam Cross
Staff Writer

Online news writer at T3.com, Sam has five years of experience in online and print journalism, with work featured in publications like Metro and Last Word on Sports. After years writing about music and football, Sam now turns his hand to bringing you news about new phones, smart home products, smart watches, laptops and TVs. Sam is a longtime fan and user of Apple products, including iPhones, MacBooks and Apple Watches.He’s also T3’s resident football expert, bringing you everything you need to know about the big games, including how to watch them. In his spare time, Sam is a keen guitarist, watch lover and (very) amateur golfer.