The Pixel 9a ships with 8GB RAM, in contrast to the 12GB or 16GB found in other models of the Pixel 9 lineup. Because of this, Google had to include a smaller version of Gemini AI with the device, labeled as Gemini Nano 1.0 XXS. This smaller model lacks some features present in the larger XS model, such as Pixel Screenshots and continuous background running.
Some features missing in the XXS model include Pixel Screenshots and Call Notes, as the XXS model lacks the capability to process images and audio. However, Recorder summaries are still available as Gemini creates transcriptions of audio and then summarizes them.
It’s worth noting that while the Pixel 9a’s 8GB RAM may seem lacking compared to other budget phones in 2025, it is still expected to run smoothly. The decision to include 8GB RAM may have been influenced by target pricing and profit goals, but it does result in missing features compared to the standard Pixel 9 models.
// Arstechnica