Google seems to be moving up its entire timeline of releases right now. After launching the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold a full two months earlier than usual, and rumors of Android 16 coming out a few months earlier, it appears that the same is happening with Pixel 9a.
As we’ve confirmed with multiple sources, the Google Pixel 9a will be available for pre-order in mid-March 2025. Shipping and in-store availability will be available before the end of March 2025. As we’ve reported already, the Pixel 9a will be available in four colors, that’s Porcelain, Obsidian, Peony and Iris.
We’re also learning from multiple sources that this is going to be the new permanent release schedule for the Pixel a-series. This means that the Pixel 10a will also be launched in March of 2026.
This release date is backed up by the fact that CADs for the Pixel 9a came out a bit earlier than normal. And it also makes sense to move up the Pixel 9a release date, with the Pixel 10 coming in August.
Google is moving up the entire Android timeline
We saw this start this year, with the Pixel 9 series getting announced in mid-August. Typically, Google would release these products in October with them being available by the end of October. That always seemed pretty late, especially with Black Friday just a few weeks later. And the Pixels getting massive discounts then.
Earlier this week, Android Authority reported that Android 16 is getting an earlier launch, set for Q2 2025. This means its AOSP push would be before the end of June 2025. But that doesn’t mean the Pixel update will be available then. As we’re seeing with the Android 15 release this year, it could still be waiting for the Pixel 10 launch in August.
So why is Google shifting its timeline around? We haven’t been able to confirm that just yet, but releasing the Pixels earlier makes a lot of sense. Instead of releasing at the end of each release cycle throughout the year, they are now releasing with their partners, more or less. Not to mention, an earlier Android release means that all of those Fall Flagship releases could launch with Android 16.
