We’re mere weeks away from the Pixel 6a, Google’s mid-range smartphone for 2022, landing in our hands. Unlike previous iterations, however, the Pixel 6a is no longer an easy recommendation for budget-conscious buyers. At a higher $449 price tag this year, there’s no denying that the Pixel 6a is neither great value nor terribly overpriced. That’s especially true when you compare it to some of its own predecessors like the Pixel 4a.
According to data from Statista, the average consumer spends around $300 on a new smartphone, with some markets like India recording an even lower average selling price of $200. Yet, Google now has nothing to offer in the sub-$400 price range. Keeping that in mind then, is it time for Google to consider releasing a smartphone that’s more squarely aimed at the masses?