A fresh mid-tier option enters the market, and here’s the savings you can expect.
Essential Information
– Google has revealed that its Certified Refurbished Pixel initiative has welcomed a new addition: the Pixel 8a.
– The device offers a discount of $160, making it available for $339 instead of $499.
– Once again, Google emphasizes its refurbished program’s commitment to replacing any components with genuine materials, along with a complete OS upgrade.
Like many other OEMs, Google operates a refurbished program, and this week sees a new (previous?) model added to its offerings.
Prem Pandian, Google’s global head of strategic initiatives and partnerships, shared details about the expansion of its Certified Refurbished program. The company claims it is launching its “largest expansion to date,” introducing the Pixel 8a into the program for consumers. Google notes that its refurbished devices are shipped in a “100% plastic-free” package featuring its Relove icon. Moreover, the phones in this program undergo repairs with authentic parts in Google’s facilities.
Furthermore, any Pixel phones available in the program are delivered with the latest Android software. Consumers will not face the same price point for these Pixels as they would for brand-new devices. Instead, Google asserts that its refurbished Pixels present discounts of up to 45% off the original price. However, for the Pixel 8a, Google has only reduced the cost by $160, bringing it to $339.
This expansion of the Certified Refurbished program doesn’t conclude with the Pixel 8a, as Google is also bringing its availability to Amazon.
Starting this week, Google states that users can visit Amazon Renewed to discover “a variety” of Pixel phones. Although this is facilitated through a third party, Google guarantees the quality of the refurbished devices. The Pixel 8a will be included, along with Google’s existing lineup, which consists of the Pixel 8, 8 Pro, Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a.
Revamped and Appealing
“Affordable and eco-friendly” options were the focus at the launch of Google’s Certified Refurbished program in 2024. Initially, the program offered the Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 6, 6 Pro, or 6a to consumers. Since that time, the Pixel 6 series has been phased out and is no longer listed on the official Google Store. Google made similar comments about its program during this Pixel 8a announcement.
It mentions that it will assess a Pixel’s battery, display, and “housing,” and replace any necessary components to ensure the phone feels new. Naturally, Google likely ventured into this domain as Samsung and Apple have largely led the way. However, it appears that, for some, Google could improve its “affordable” claim, as the price reductions for certain devices could be more significant.
Android Central’s Perspective
We have a variety of phones to select from. There are flagship models, which typically boast robust specifications, rapid internals, and excellent build quality. Mid-range options are available as well, but they represent a step down, focusing on affordability and reduced specifications. Refurbished phones are an interesting case because companies attempt to lower those prices to what might be considered mid-range levels, but that may not happen with a flagship undergoing refurbishment. I can somewhat relate to my colleague’s view that Google “should take refurbishment seriously” concerning Pixel pricing.
