Google could unveil Pixel 6a and Pixel Watch at I/O 2022 in May

It’s pretty obvious that Google’s release schedule has been a bit confusing over the past couple of years. The ongoing pandemic put a bit of a hamper on things, as supply constraints reared their ugly head, and continue to wreak havoc. But it seems that Google might be getting back to a bit of normalcy now that the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro releases are out of the way.

According to Max Jambor, Google could debut the Pixel 6a as early as May. This comes after a report last week from Jon Prosser that the elusive Pixel Watch was still in the works and is also set to make its debut in May. Prosser went a step further, claiming that the Pixel Watch will be unveiled on May 26th, which has led to speculation that these two rumored devices could be announced at the same time.

Pixel 6A scheduled for May

— Max Jambor (@MaxJmb) January 22, 2022

It’s not completely uncommon for Google to hold a seemingly random hardware event, but if we look back at the company’s past history, a May release would line up with a potential Google I/O event. After nixing the event entirely in 2020, I/O 2021 took place virtually between May 18 and May 20. If Prosser is correct, then the Pixel Watch launch would be the following week, but it’s easy to assume that this announcement would take place during I/O.

Pixel Watch 👇

I’m hearing that Google is planning on launching it on Thursday, May 26th — over year since we leaked it.

This is the first we’ve seen a set date on the device behind the scenes.

Google is known for pushing back dates — but if they do, we’ll know 👀 pic.twitter.com/Kk0D4Bom6d

— not jon prosser (@jon_prosser) January 21, 2022

Not too much is known about what the Pixel 6a will offer in terms of specs, but indications are that Google will use its own Tensor chip in the upcoming device. It will likely be modified to help Google reach the more-affordable price point that its A-Series of devices offer. Thanks to previous renders, the 6a will retain the unique look found in the standard Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, complete with the camera bar on the back, a hole-punch selfie camera on the front, and likely even an in-display fingerprint scanner.

It may seem like May is a long time from now, but as we all know, time flies and the device will be here before we know it. As we get closer to the rumored launch event, expect to see more rumors and leaks make their way out ahead of the event.