Google Pixel 3a, 3a XL to hit India from May 15

New Delhi: Tech giant Google's latest generation of smartphones - Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL - will make their way into the Indian market priced at Rs 39,999 onwards from May 15. These handsets, which are cheaper than their predecessors, compete with devices from the stables of Apple, Samsung and OnePlus in the burgeoning premium smartphone segment in India.

The new lineup promises better camera features and battery life. Speaking at its annual developers meet Google I/O late on Tuesday night, its CEO Sundar Pichai said 'building for everyone' is a core philosophy for the company. By offering a more affordable lineup, the US-based giant is keen on wooing customers in emerging countries like India.

According to Counterpoint Research Associate Director Tarun Pathak, the "mid-tier variant of Pixel" is expected to provide Google with "a chance to start things from scratch in some of the emerging countries like India where premium market is small but growing fast". "This can help Google to lock in some first-time users who are looking for premium features at an affordable prices," he said.

Given that the premium smartphone market in India is expected to grow by 30 per cent, the segment offers a huge potential for players like Google. Google had introduced its Pixel 3 and 3XL in India in October last year priced between Rs 71,000-92,000. The prices of these devices now hover around Rs 57,000-74,000.

Meanwhile, Pixel 3a, priced at Rs 39,999, features 5.6-inch display, 4GB RAM, 64GB internal storage, 12.2MP rear and 8MP front camera, and 3,000 mAh battery. Pixel 3a XL - priced at Rs 44,999 - features a larger six-inch display and 3,700 mAh battery.