The Google Pixel 9a looks set to take on the iPhone 16e in the mid-range smartphone connectivity stakes.
We’re expecting to hear more about Google’s next budget smartphone any day now, but in the meantime the leaks keep on springing forth.
Most recently, the Google Pixel 9a has made an appearance on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which is the official communications agency of the United States of America.
If you want to release a smartphone in the US, you need to received FCC certification first. The mere fact that the Pixel 9a has appeared here, then, heavily implies that a launch is imminent.
Pixel 9a reaches for the stars
But that’s not the most interesting thing about this FCC listing. That honour falls to the confirmation of satellite calling support.
As Droid-Life points out, the statement that “The satellite feature on this device must be turned off at all times while on board an aircraft by turning on airplane mode” is a dead giveaway that satellite connectivity is included with the Pixel 9a.
We saw this feature making an appearance in the rest of the Pixel 9 range, but it’ll be interesting to see it here in Google’s upcoming mid-range smartphone option.
Eugen Wegmann
Apple’s iPhone 16e has a direct rival
As stated in that headline, it also means that the Pixel 9a is equipped to take on the iPhone 16e , which is expected to be the phone’s biggest direct rival.
Apple launched its latest entry-level model with its own home-brewed C1 modem, which improves 5G connectivity and power efficiency. In addition, the iPhone 16e is capable of satellite connectivity and even sending messages over satellite when there’s no cellular signal.
The Pixel 9a FCC listing also confirms that Google’s new phone will come with NFC and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, as well as wireless charging. All are expected specs, but it’s nice to receive official confirmation (or as close as we’re going to get ahead of launch day) nonetheless.
Previous leaks point to a new and somewhat controversial flattened design and Tensor G4 power, in keeping with the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro .
Google Pixel 9
Author: Jon Mundy, Contributor, Tech Advisor
Jon is a freelance journalist who got his start covering mobile games at the dawn of the App Store. He has since covered everything from smart home tech and laptops to food and culture, but always seems to return to his fascination with smartphones.
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