Google Pixel 9a Teardown
Cost Efficiency and Component Analysis of Google’s Latest Mid-Range Device
4 Min Read June 17, 2025
A detailed look at the Tensor G4 processor, memory design, camera system, and component cost structure in the Google Pixel 9a.
TechInsights’ teardown of the Google Pixel 9a, a mid-range smartphone released in the U.S., reveals the device’s carefully balanced mix of performance and cost efficiency. Featuring the same Google Tensor G4 application processor used in Google’s flagship Pixel 9 series, the Pixel 9a delivers high-end processing power in a more affordable package.
Key Findings from the Pixel 9a Teardown
Application Processor Dominance
The 64-bit Octa-Core Google Tensor G4 remains the most significant cost driver in the Pixel 9a, accounting for 29.87% of the total estimated bill of materials (BOM). This is substantially higher than the Apple iPhone 16e A3212’s Apple A18 processor cost share of 19.75%.
Memory and Storage
The Pixel 9a uses 8 GB Samsung LPDDR5X mobile DRAM and 128 GB Micron 3D TLC NAND Flash storage, introducing a new NAND component: the Micron MTFC128GBCAVHF-WT.
Display
The 6.3-inch AMOLED display with 2424 x 1080 resolution and over 1 billion colors contributes 6.94% to the total BOM cost.
Camera System
Camera components account for 15.1% of the Pixel 9a’s BOM, a larger share compared to the iPhone 16e A3212, underscoring Google’s investment in camera functionality for its mid-range offering.
Connectivity
The Pixel 9a supports Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and USB Type-C, but lacks mmWave 5G and Wi-Fi 7 capabilities found in the Pixel 9.
Enclosure and Materials
The Pixel 9a enclosure, made from aluminum and plastic, accounts for 58.61% of the non-electronic cost, but remains less expensive than the iPhone 16e’s enclosure design.
New Components Identified
Two new ICs were identified in this teardown:
- Micron MTFC128GBCAVHF-WT (128 GB 3D TLC NAND Flash)
- Texas Instruments TAS2572 Class-D Audio Amplifier
Pixel 9a vs. Apple iPhone 16e A3212: BOM Cost Comparison
Compared to Apple’s iPhone 16e A3212, the total estimated BOM cost of the Pixel 9a is 6% lower. Significant differences include:
- Lower connectivity subsystem costs in the Pixel 9a.
- A higher percentage cost impact from sensors.
- A less costly enclosure and overall non-electronic component spend.
Implications for Mid-Range Market Strategy
By leveraging the same Tensor G4 processor as its flagship models, Google offers Pixel 9a users flagship-level performance at a lower price point, partly enabled by cost savings in memory capacity, camera system modifications, and connectivity features. This strategic balance could position the Pixel 9a as a strong competitor in price-sensitive markets, especially against devices like Apple’s iPhone 16e.
Full Teardown Access Available Now
For a deeper dive into the full cost structure, component suppliers, and circuit-level details of the Google Pixel 9a—including high-resolution die photos and floorplan analysis—access the full teardown report on the TechInsights Platform.
