Pixel 9a did not receive an updated Exynos 5400 modem
Google has officially presented the Pixel 9a, a budget smartphone priced at $499. Although the device is equipped with the same Tensor G4 chip as other models of the Pixel 9 series, it has a significant drawback.
Here's What We Know
Instead of the new Exynos Modem 5400, which is installed in other smartphones in the series, Pixel 9a is equipped with an outdated Exynos Modem 5300. This choice may affect connection quality and overall performance.
The Exynos Modem 5300 is the same modem used in the Pixel 7 series, which experienced issues with signal reception, battery life, and overheating. These issues have been partially resolved in the new Pixel 9 models with the upgraded Exynos Modem 5400, which has improved battery efficiency and connection quality. The newer modem also supports 3GPP Release 17, which allows for satellite connectivity and significantly faster download speeds than the previous generation.
Samsung claims that the Exynos Modem 5400 provides better stability and performance, but the Pixel 9a did not benefit from these advantages. Due to the lack of updated technology, it's unclear how the Pixel 9a will handle network connectivity, battery life, and overheating, especially given the problems past models have had with this modem.
The Exynos Modem 5400 uses a more advanced chip-on-board technology (Fan-out Panel Level Packaging), which allows components to be connected more efficiently, but is more expensive to manufacture. That's why Google probably chose an older modem for the Pixel 9a.
Source: Android Authority
