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Google recently started shipping the Pixel 8a units to those who pre-ordered it soon after the unveiling. To celebrate the mid-range Pixel’s launch, the search titan has released the first Pixel 8a factory image and OTA files. Those interested can now visit the Google Play Services website and download these factory images and OTA files.
Eight different Pixel 8a factory images are available, all with May security updates
Google has released as many as eight different factory image builds for the Pixel 8a smartphone. These builds are for various regions and telecom operators. In the coming months, the brand could shrink the factory images to only a couple of monthly builds. All of these factory images have the May 2024 security patch. The codename for the Pixel 8a (review) firmware is “akita”.
For those unaware, the factory images will help you bring your Pixel 8a back to the properly working state from the ruins. In case you mess with the Pixel 8a’s bootloader or recovery and break stuff, then you can flash these factory images to restore it to the original working state.
The Pixel 8a’s first update brings AI wallpaper generator feature
Apart from releasing the factory images and OTA builds, Google has also rolled out the first update for the Pixel 8a. The first firmware update for the device brings the AI wallpaper generator feature, which was missing at the launch. The update is around 190MB in size and is being rolled out over the air in a phased manner.
The AI wallpaper generator feature onboard the update allows users to create unique wallpapers utilizing specific keywords and themes. Google has essentially integrated its popular AI image generation feature into the wallpaper system of the Pixel 8a. Google originally showcased the feature at last year’s I/O conference. The Pixel 8 series of flagships were among the first to have this functionality before it was released to other Pixel phones.
Those interested in the budget Pixel offering can purchase the phone from major Google retail partners. The Pixel 8a’s 128GB storage variant costs $499, while the 256GB model will set the users back by $559. The handset is being offered in as many as four color variants – Bay, Porcelain, Aloe, and Obsidian. It’s worth mentioning that the 256GB storage version of the device is available only in the Obsidian hue at the moment.