If all goes according to plan, the Google Pixel 4a should be available around May 12, which is the very day Google I/O 2020 should have started.

However, with the coronavirus and cancellations of shows like MWC, GDC, and Facebook's F8, it is not clear if Google's event will still take place. will be released on schedule.

According to Nikkei Asian Review, Google is expected to begin production of the Pixel 4a "as early as April." And Google is reportedly shifting production from China to a partner in northern Vietnam.

According to the same report, Google also plans to manufacture its Pixel 5 flagship phone in northern Vietnam.

Additionally, Google is preparing production lines in Thailand for smart home products such as the Nest Mini. The only timeline is in the first half of 2020.

The Pixel 4a is significant for Google, as the lower-priced Pixel 3a reportedly generated far more smartphone sales than any of Google's flagship devices.

Pixel 4a features rumored so far include a faster Snapdragon 730 processor, possible 5G support, and a second rear camera.

But perhaps the most important feature of the Pixel 4a is its price: the Pixel 3a starts at $399 and the Pixel 3a XL at $479. This year's lineup is expected to be priced similarly, although the 5G version may command a higher premium.

Last month we heard that Verizon had reportedly abandoned Google as a partner for the Pixel 4a and all future smartphones. However, Verizon quickly refuted that report. This is important because Google needs partners for its carriers in the U.S.