The recent launch of the Pixel 9 series by Google has sparked mixed reactions, particularly regarding the introduction of the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. Initially viewed as a potentially greedy move that complicates the Pixel lineup, some argue that it may cater to consumers who desire the features of a Pro model without the bulk.
The Pixel 9 Pro features a 6.3-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1,280 x 2,856 and a versatile dynamic refresh rate ranging from 1 to 120Hz. It boasts a “Super Actua” display, offering a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, surpassing the standard Pixel 9’s maximum of 2,700 nits. The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a larger 6.8-inch OLED display, matching the Pro’s refresh rate and peak brightness while enhancing the resolution to 1,344 x 2,992. Both models are protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
Battery capacity distinguishes the two models, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL housing a 5,060mAh battery compared to the 4,700mAh battery of the Pixel 9 Pro. Charging claims indicate that the Pixel 9 Pro can achieve about 55% battery life within 30 minutes using a 45W charger, while the 9 Pro XL is projected to reach 70% in the same timeframe. However, the charger is not included with the purchase.
In terms of shared features, both phones are equipped with the latest Google Tensor G4 chipset, 16GB of RAM, and a storage capacity ranging from 128GB to 1TB. The camera hardware remains consistent across models, featuring a redesigned rear camera housing that some critics find less appealing than previous iterations. The primary camera includes a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization and a 48MP ultrawide lens with a wider aperture, differing from the Pixel 8 Pro. The telephoto camera has also increased in resolution from 48MP to 50MP.
Improvements in camera software include a new HDR pipeline and several features, such as “Add Me,” which allows users to insert themselves into group photos. The new Zoom Enhance feature, leveraging generative AI to refine zoomed images, will be available at launch.
The Pixel series will continue to offer seven years of OS and security updates, including feature drops. New features such as a weather app with daily summaries, call transcripts, and enhanced gallery organization through AI are highlighted.
Pricing for the Pixel 9 Pro begins at £999 for the 128GB model, consistent with last year’s model, but higher prices for 256GB and 512GB variants have been noted. The 1TB model is priced at £1,449, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at £1,099 for the 128GB option, marking a £100 increase from the standard Pro.
Concerns arise regarding the value proposition, as the new models—especially the Pixel 9 Pro—offer fewer features than their predecessors while maintaining similar price points. This pricing strategy could create confusion about value for consumers, with the 9 Pro lacking the high-end specifications of the Pixel 8 Pro.
As reviews for the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are forthcoming, there remains uncertainty over whether these models can sway initial skepticism surrounding their pricing and feature disparities.