The rear panel of the Google Pixel 9a is constructed using a composite material that includes a plastic back. This design choice is consistent with previous A-series models, which often use plastic for the rear panel to maintain affordability while still offering a premium feel. The plastic back is sandblasted to achieve a matte finish, which contributes to a lightweight build and comfortable grip. The frame of the Pixel 9a is made of satin metal, providing a sleek and durable edge around the device[2][3][5].
The Pixel 9a's rear design is notable for its flat profile, lacking the prominent camera bar seen in other Pixel models. Instead, the camera lenses are housed in a pill-shaped area with a subtle bezel, creating a smooth and streamlined look[1][2][3]. This design shift aligns with Google's effort to differentiate the A-series while maintaining the overall aesthetic appeal of the Pixel lineup.
In terms of color options, the Pixel 9a is available in Obsidian, Porcelain, Peony (a salmon-like hue), and Iris (a purple-ish color), offering users a variety of choices to suit their preferences[2][3]. Overall, the combination of materials and design elements in the Pixel 9a aims to provide a balance between affordability and premium features.
Citations:
[1] https://www.androidpolice.com/google-pixel-9a-unboxing-video-hits-youtube-before-big-reveal/
[2] https://9to5google.com/2025/03/19/google-pixel-9a-announcement-hands-on/
[3] https://www.pcmag.com/news/i-took-the-499-google-pixel-9a-for-a-spin-heres-what-i-like-most
[4] https://new.gbca.org.au/case-studies/building/pixel-building-materials/
[5] https://www.phonearena.com/reviews/google-pixel-9a-vs-pixel-9_id6788
[6] https://openscholarship.wustl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1199&context=bcs
[7] https://chromeunboxed.com/google-pixel-9a-unboxing-videos-leak-just-before-anticipated-launch/
[8] https://blog.google/products/pixel/pixel-9a-the-latest-a-series-phone-with-google-ai-smarts-at-an-unbeatable-value/
[9] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9852238/
[10] https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/google/pixel-9a-arrives-with-a-fresh-new-look
[11] https://patents.google.com/patent/US20150297949A1/en