The introduction of the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL has generated mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a practical expansion of options for consumers while others see it as a confusing move that complicates the Pixel lineup. The devices are designed to cater to different preferences, offering the power of the Pro model in a more compact form for those who may prefer not to handle a larger device.
The Pixel 9 Pro features a 6.3-inch OLED display, which shares the same size as the standard Pixel 9 but boasts a sharper resolution of 1,280 x 2,856 and a dynamic refresh rate of 1-120Hz. It also claims a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, slightly brighter than the standard Pixel 9’s 2,700 nits. In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a larger 6.8-inch OLED display with a higher resolution of 1,344 x 2,992, while maintaining the same brightness and refresh rate claims.
In terms of battery life, the Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with a 5,060mAh battery, outlasting the 4,700mAh battery found in both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. Although exact charging speeds are not disclosed, the Pixel 9 Pro is said to reach about 55% in 30 minutes, while the 9 Pro XL achieves around 70%, both using a 45W Google charger, which is not included.
Both models share the latest Google Tensor G4 chipset, supported by 16GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 128GB to 1TB. They also feature identical camera hardware, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization and a new camera design that some critics believe detracts from the previous model’s aesthetic appeal.
The rear camera system includes a 48MP ultrawide lens and a telephoto camera with a bump in megapixel count to 50MP. The front-facing camera is now a 48MP lens, providing the widest field of view to date on a Pixel device. Updates to camera software include a new HDR pipeline and various features designed to enhance user experience.
Artificial intelligence is integrated into several aspects of the phones, including a new weather app and improved call and gallery functions. Both the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL will receive seven years of OS and security updates, along with a year of the Google One AI plan.
However, there are concerns regarding the pricing structure. The Pixel 9 Pro starts at the same price as the previous model, but with lower specifications, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL is priced higher than its predecessor. The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s increases range from £40 for the 256GB and 512GB models to £100 for the base model compared to the Pixel 8 Pro.
In conclusion, the pricing differences have raised questions among consumers about the value proposition of the new models. With full reviews forthcoming, it remains to be seen how the latest offerings will be received in practice.