Google discontinues the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5

Soon after the launch of the Google Pixel 5a, it didn’t take long for eagle-eyed netizens to notice that the Pixel 4a 5G and the Pixel 5 seemed to be out of stock on the Google Store and other retailers. All signs pointed to the two phones being discontinued, and today, Google confirmed that was indeed the case. A Google spokesperson confirmed to Digital Trends that the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5 would only continue to be available until current stocks last.

It absolutely makes sense for Google to discontinue these phones. The 4a 5G and the new Pixel 5a are quite similar, and any differences all favor the latter. The Pixel 5a comes with a more premium build, a much larger battery, better performance despite having the same processing package, and an IP rating for dust and water resistance. And it’s cheaper too.

In the case of the Pixel 5, Google’s 2020 flagship surprisingly doesn’t offer all that much more. You get the same processor, identical cameras, and a similar build. In fact, the Pixel 5a has a bit of a leg up with its larger battery and headphone jack. The only significant differences are that the Pixel 5 comes with wireless charging and a display with a 90Hz refresh rate. That certainly wouldn’t have been enough to justify the significant price difference.

Availability might be the issue, though. It looks like Google will discontinue the Pixel 4a 5G and 5 in every market these phones were available. However, the Pixel 5a is only launching in the US and Japan. The older, smaller Pixel 4a will be the only affordable Pixel you can get your hands on in most places. Of course, if you’re willing to splurge, the upcoming Pixel 6 series is shaping up to be quite enticing as well.

The Google Pixel 5a is currently up for pre-order, with general sales beginning on August 26.