Google on Monday announced its first 5G-compatible smartphones, which will be available later in the fall. The Pixel 4a and Pixel 5 models will start at $499 and be available in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Ireland, France, Germany, Japan, Taiwan and Australia.

In the same announcement, Google also unveiled a less expensive 4a model without 5G support, which has been rumored for several months. It is currently available for preorder starting at $349 and has a listed release date of Aug. 20.

“This fall, we’ll have two more devices to talk about: the Pixel 4a (5G), starting at $499, and Pixel 5, both with 5G to make streaming videos, downloading content, and playing games on Stadia or other platforms faster and smoother than ever,” the company said in its announcement.

Little has been revealed about the 5G models at this stage, with most of the attention being focused on the non-5G 4a.

Based on the small glimpse of the Pixel 5’s design shown by Google, it appears to sport a matte black finish with a slightly shiny texture.

Some rumors have suggested that the Pixel 5 will also incorporate a second camera lens.

While sales for Google’s cheaper smartphones have sold well, they are not considered huge profit drivers for the tech giant. Its premium models, meanwhile, have generally failed to make a dent in the market due to stiff competition from established names like Apple and Samsung.

Google reported a rare drop in revenue in results that largely met expectations during what the company called "a difficult global economic environment"
Google reported a rare drop in revenue in results that largely met expectations during what the company called "a difficult global economic environment" AFP / Robyn Beck
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