HIGHLIGHTS

The Pixel 9a features a simplified version of Google’s AI, lacking some essential functionalities found in the higher-end Pixel 9 models.

Google’s flagship Pixel 9 variants utilize Gemini Nano XS.

In contrast, the Pixel 9a operates on a more compact AI model named Gemini Nano 1.0 XXS.

Incorporating artificial intelligence has become a fundamental aspect of the Pixel experience by Google, but the implementation varies across different models. The recently introduced Pixel 9a is equipped with a streamlined version of Google’s AI technology, which omits several significant features available in the more advanced Pixel 9 series. The underlying reason for these limitations lies in hardware constraints, particularly the device’s reduced RAM capacity. Let’s delve into the specifics.

While the premium Pixel models boast 12GB of RAM, the Pixel 9a comes with a comparatively modest 8GB. Google has confirmed to various tech sources like Ars Technica that this discrepancy in memory hinders the device from utilizing the complete array of AI functionalities integrated into its higher-tier counterparts. Users can still engage with Gemini—Google’s AI assistant—via the power button or the dedicated Gemini app; however, the on-device AI framework is less robust.

The premium Pixel models leverage the capabilities of Gemini Nano XS. In contrast, the Pixel 9a relies on a reduced variant known as Gemini Nano 1.0 XXS. This ultra-compact AI model is designed to be less resource-intensive, but it inherently sacrifices a range of features.

One of the significant limitations posed by Gemini Nano XXS is its inability to handle multimodal processing. Unlike its flagship counterparts, which can process diverse data forms—including images and audio—this scaled-down version can only manage text-based tasks. This distinction translates to a narrower range of advanced AI utilities on the Pixel 9a.

To find out more, you can visit: Google Pixel 9a launched in India with an enhanced display and camera: Check its price and availability here.

AI Features Absent in Pixel 9a

Given the constraints of its AI model, the Pixel 9a does not support several prominent AI-driven functionalities. For example, it does not come equipped with the Pixel Screenshots application, which utilizes AI to analyze and categorize screenshots into a searchable database. Furthermore, the device lacks the Call Notes feature, which generates summaries of phone calls using advanced AI capabilities.

Additionally, it remains uncertain whether the Pixel 9a also supports the newly introduced AI-powered scam detection technology for calls, as Google has yet to release official confirmation on this feature.

You might want to compare it with its predecessor, the Pixel 8a: Google Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a: A breakdown of Price, Camera, Design, Specifications, and More.

Despite these drawbacks, it is worth mentioning that certain AI-centric functionalities remain operational on the Pixel 9a. The device still allows for Recorder summaries, as these rely on text processing rather than direct audio analysis. The Recorder application first transcribes spoken content into text form, which is subsequently condensed by Gemini Nano XXS into a summary.