Some of Google’s coolest AI features don’t work on the 9a.

Google can’t make a move in 2025 without veering into the realm of generative AI, and the release of the Pixel 9a is no exception. Curiously, the AI experience on this phone may not match what you’ve seen from the company’s high-end smartphones. Google has confirmed to Ars that the phone’s lower memory prevented it from implementing the full suite of Pixel AI features. You can still talk to Gemini by holding the power button or opening the Gemini app, but the on-device Gemini Nano model has seen a downgrade on the 9a.

    • ChaoticNeutralCzech@feddit.orgEnglish
      10·
      4 days ago

      The client app is more lightweight than a web browser so getting it that low is just not practical

      Also, in what universe is it easier to change a phone’s RAM than to disable apps or get a custom ROM?

    • henfredemars@infosec.pubOPEnglish
      8·
      4 days ago

      Totally get your vibe. I don’t want AI BS, and it’s a huge waste of my memory and battery. Keep it simple and stupid, please.

    • skuzz@discuss.tchncs.deEnglish
      4·
      4 days ago

      Probably around 3GB. I have some cheaper Motorolas with that, usable, but a lot of app reload. Also, stick to older, slower phones to avoid the AI on-device. Otherwise rooting, GrapheneOS, etc.

    • CallateCoyote@lemmy.worldEnglish
      2·
      4 days ago

      Seriously, it’s trash. I heard they’re replacing the Google Assistant with it but it can’t even handle “play music” and “navigate home” when I’m driving.

      I have no issues opening up GPT or DeepSeek if I need to ask AI a question about the weird thing on my peepee sack. It’s just a skin tag.