Google Pixel 3a discontinued, but where's the Pixel 4a?

The Google Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL have been removed from sale on Google’s website as the wait for the next-gen Pixel 4a continues to drag on.

Google has confirmed the phone, which is by far the most successful in the range, has been discontinued with no plans to make more devices, although it can still be purchased from some retailers.

“Google Store has sold through its inventory and completed sales of Pixel 3a,” the company told 9to5Google. “For people who are still interested in buying Pixel 3a, the product is available from some partners while supplies last.”

The Pixel 3a went on sale in May 2019 and everyone (including Google) expected to launch the successor in May 2020. However, the coronavirus pandemic put paid to those plans.

We’re now in July, almost two months after its planned unveiling at Google I/O and the Pixel 4a is still missing in action. Usually the end of the road for one device would mean the follow-up is imminent, but Google has yet to make an announcement.

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While other companies have managed to stick to their release schedules, despite the production issues caused by the virus, for some reason the Pixel 4a is nowhere to be seen. Back in May, Android Police’s David Ruddock said the device had been delayed into July.

A lot is expected of the Pixel 4a following the success of its predecessor. Our reviewer Max Parker called it the “perfect antidote to the £1,000 phone.”

He praised the inclusion of a headphone jack, flagship quality camera, fantastic display and great size. It was marked down slightly due to the slightly sluggish performance, dim screen and lack of wireless charging.

Max added: “The Pixel 3a doesn’t quite bring back the pure bargain-basement pricing structure of the brand’s once-fabled Nexus series. However, it does lower the barrier of entry for anyone wanting a fantastic camera on a smartphone.”

Chris Smith

Chris Smith is a freelance technology journalist for a host of UK tech publications, including Trusted Reviews. He's based in South Florida, USA.  …