Google’s Pixel 9a is changing things up in the design department, as new renders have just leaked with a flat camera module that ditches a now-iconic part of Google’s smartphone designs.

Since the “Tensor reboot” of the past few years, Google’s smartphone design has incorporated a “camera bar” or “visor” across the back which houses all of the camera elements. The look has changed over the years and to suit different form factors, but it’s quickly become the most recognizable aspect of recent Google Pixel devices.

The Pixel 9a, though, will apparently do away with that.

Leaked renders (not of the marketing variety, but likely CAD-based) of the Pixel 9a show off Google’s new design which does not have a camera bar, but rather cameras that are flush with the rest of the device. Similar to certain LG devices prior to the company’s departure from smartphones, the cameras are mostly flat against the back of the Pixel 9a. The flash is then seen to the right side.

The change in design was first shown by a prototype that surfaced in late August.

No dimensions or other details about the Pixel 9a were provided in the leak that was posted by Android Headlines after being created by @OnLeaks. Leaks of this sort usually provide dimensions alongside the design, so it’s rather odd to see that missing this time around.

What do you think of the change in design?

Pixel 9a is expected to launch in mid-2025 as one of five new Pixel devices launching next year.

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