Why Google ditching the 4a XL is a good thing.
It is rumored that Google will be skipping it’s XL variant of the upcoming release of their second generation ‘budget’ smart, and as a self confessed Google fanboy, I’m totally ok with that.
The response to the Pixel 4 has been lacklustre to say the least, with many in the tech world criticising its uninspiring design, notably its hesitance to follow the lead of the likes of Samsung in adopting a bezel-less front screen. I for one however, having used the 4XL since its release, think it’s a great phone, and still one of the best in the market despite the hefty price tag, and somewhat beta functions (motion sense, I’m looking at you). After all, the Pixel is really about having that native Android experience, where the software experience trumps the hardware. The second generation “a” variant of Google’s flagship still provides consumers with that great software and camera experience, with the main compromise being the build quality (plastic vs glass) and some internals. If that means consumers can experience all the good stuff at a lower price point, that’s great!
So all rumours point to the XL variant being left out of the upcoming “a” release. The larger screen in my opinion should not be compromised by a cheaper build quality. Apple haven’t done a budget ‘Max’ device, and Samsung (until now) have never done a lite version of the Note. In my opinion, this is a good marketing ploy by Google. It places Google amongst its competitors, and for the time being at least, gives the XL a premium identity.
Google has also had a habit during the Pixel’s evolution to go against the grain to simply jump back in line with the competition, and I feel like that’s simply being cautious. The 3.5 headphone jack was a notable omission from the Pixel 2 range after the inaugural Pixel’s marketing bragged of its existence, then the free photo backups forever was ditched at the release of the Pixel 4. By this notion, an XL variant of their budget device misaligns Google with their competition. They’re simply getting onto a level playing field so as to not confuse the market.
So, back to the 4a. Is it worth purchasing one albeit without that larger screen? Short answer, yes….
At the time of writing, the Pixel 3 on the Google store comes in at a starting price point of $1199 AUD, where as the Pixel 3a sits just under half that price at $649 AUD. On price alone, the “a” variant is almost a no brainer. Sure, you miss out on wireless charging, and that premium glass feel, but the main selling points of the Pixel are there. Best in class software, with one of the best cameras in the smartphone world.
If the 4a can live up to the benefits (and price ) of the 3a, as far as Android goes it’s poses some good value.
