Google has expanded its Pixel phone lineup with the introduction of the Pixel 9 series, which includes one standard model, the Pixel 9, and three Pro variants: the Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Each model features an updated design, advanced Tensor G4 processors, and a host of AI capabilities.
The Pixel 9 showcases a new design reminiscent of the iPhone, with flat sides replacing the previous curved edges. It retains traditional Pixel elements on the back, where a newly designed elongated camera bar stands out from the body.
The Pixel 9 Pro is now available in two sizes. The base Pixel 9 maintains similar dimensions to its predecessor but comes with an upgraded 6.3-inch display. In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro XL mirrors the size of the Pixel 8 Pro with a larger 6.8-inch screen. The new Pixel 9 Pro sits between the two sizes, featuring many of the Pro model’s attributes.
Redesigned from the previous Pixel Fold, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has undergone changes in dimensions and weight, now measuring 5.1mm thick when unfolded. The updated model is taller, reaching 155.2mm in length, with a 6.3-inch external display, while the earlier version was 139.7mm long with a 5.8-inch screen.
In terms of performance, all three Pro models are equipped with 16GB of RAM, while the standard Pixel 9 also offers 12GB. This boost in memory supports the on-device AI capabilities of the new Pixel 9 series, which includes an updated Gemini Nano model that facilitates multimodality for analyzing images, speech, and text.
Exciting new AI features have been introduced, such as a screenshot tool capable of organizing saved screenshots on the device, though it operates only with manually captured images. A new generative AI app called Pixel Studio enables users to convert text prompts into illustrations, but it does not process on the device.
Photo enhancement remains a highlight of the series, featuring updated tools like the Magic Editor that allows users to radically alter scenes by selecting image portions and utilizing text prompts. A new “Add Me” feature assists in merging two photos to include a photographer in group images seamlessly.
The Pixel 9 series is set to become the first Android phones in the United States to include Satellite SOS feature, designed to connect users to emergency services in areas lacking mobile coverage. This feature is expected to roll out alongside Android 15 later this year, although the devices will launch with Android 14 and will benefit from seven years of OS updates and security support.
Camera capabilities have been enhanced, with all Pixel 9 models sporting a 50-megapixel f/1.7 main camera similar to last year’s offerings and upgraded ultrawide cameras. Both the 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL feature a new 42-megapixel selfie camera with autofocus, while the standard Pixel 9 retains a 10.5-megapixel selfie camera with autofocus added for the first time.
Google has made significant improvements behind the scenes as well. The Panorama mode has an updated user interface and now supports Night Sight, while adjustments to the HDR Plus processing have refined sharpening and contrast. The exclusive Video Boost feature, available only on the 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL, utilizes AI for enhanced video quality, offering upscaled 8K recording and detail recovery during zoom transitions.
While the Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers slightly lower camera specifications with a 48-megapixel main camera and less capable ultrawide and telephoto lenses compared to the other Pro models, improvements have been made in its selfie camera setup. The inner display of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has also grown to 8 inches from 7.6 inches and boasts a peak brightness of 2,700 nits, significantly improving usability in bright conditions.