If you're reading this, you might be thinking about purchasing a Google Pixel 6, and if so, congratulations! It's a fantastic smartphone, but now is not the time to buy it.
While the Pixel 6 remains Google's flagship, it won't be for long, and a mid-range alternative in the form of the Pixel 6a is on the way.
That phone has been announced and will be available for pre-order beginning July 21. (at least in the US and Australia). It will be available in those countries on July 28, with the United Kingdom still listed as 'coming soon.'
It costs $449 / £399 / AU$749, while the Google Pixel 6 costs $599 / £599 / AU$999. So the Pixel 6a is significantly less expensive while maintaining the same screen resolution, chipset, ultrawide camera, and design.
As a result, you may want to consider purchasing the Google Pixel 6a instead. Of course, the 6a isn't for everyone because it has a subpar primary camera, less RAM, a smaller display, and a lower refresh rate. Even if it isn't for you, it's worth waiting for the phone to arrive because when it does, the Pixel 6's price may drop due to increased competition.
Google is unlikely to lower the price because it would reduce Pixel 6a sales, but other retailers may.
The Pixel 7 approaches
So, at the very least, you should wait for the Pixel 6a before purchasing a Pixel 6, but you may also want to consider waiting a little longer for the Google Pixel 7, which is expected to be released in October.
That's a long time away, so if you're desperate for a new phone, we wouldn't blame you for not waiting. But it's close enough to think about, because when the Pixel 7 arrives, the Pixel 6 series will no longer be Google's best phones.
And Google has already revealed some details about the Pixel 7 line, such as the presence of a new chipset and a more mature design with a gleaming aluminum camera bar. There's a lot we don't know, but the Pixel 7 will almost certainly be a significantly better phone than the Pixel 6, so waiting a few months for that upgrade may be worthwhile.
Plus, with the release of the Pixel 7, the Pixel 6 will almost certainly be reduced in price, so even if you stick with your Pixel 6 plans, waiting could save you a lot of money.
Pondering the Pro?
Much of this applies to the Google Pixel 6 Pro as well, because we know there will be a Pixel 7 Pro.
However, the Pixel 6a is less of a competitor to the Pro – and thus less likely to result in a Pro price cut – so if you're thinking about purchasing the Google Pixel 6 Pro, the only thing you need to consider is the Pixel 7 line's impending launch.
Pick up a Pixel
While we wouldn't recommend purchasing a Google Pixel 6 right now, you won't go far wrong if you do. This is an excellent handset that is also better than it was at launch thanks to numerous rounds of bug fixes.
Plus, with years of updates promised – and Android 13 just around the corner – it'll be one of the best Pixel phones for a long time. If you wait a little longer, you might be able to spend less or get a better phone for the same price.
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