Google is expected to launch its mid-range Pixel 9a smartphone earlier than usual this year, with rumors suggesting a March 19 unveiling and sales beginning by March 26. While the company typically reveals its 'a' series phones at its annual Google I/O event in May, this early launch marks a shift in strategy. Ahead of the anticipated release, new renders of the Pixel 9a have surfaced, showcasing a purple variant and a small camera bump.

The renders, shared by Evan Blass on his X account, appear to be images from marketing materials, though this hasn't been confirmed yet. While they reveal familiar details like Gemini, theft protection, and Google services, the standout feature is the new purple variant, which hadn't been shown before.

The purple variant of the Pixel 9a, rumored to be called Iris, bears a strong resemblance to the colorway of the Samsung Galaxy S22. The design, including the edges and curves, also mirrors the look of the latest Galaxy S25 series. With the purple variant now revealed, it appears the Pixel 9a will come in four color options: black, off-white, coral, and purple.

What stands out in the new render is the Pixel 9a’s camera bump. In an era where smartphone cameras protrude significantly, the Pixel 9a features a much smaller bump that barely extends from the body. This design is reminiscent of the horizontally aligned camera bumps seen on smartphones nearly a decade ago, offering a refreshing change in modern smartphone aesthetics.