The recent launch of the Pixel 9 series, particularly the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, has sparked mixed reactions among tech enthusiasts. Initially perceived as a complicated and possibly greedy expansion of the Pixel lineup, some consumers may find this approach beneficial. The Pixel 9 Pro offers the powerful features of the Pro phone in a more compact design, appealing to those who prefer a smaller device without sacrificing performance.
The Pixel 9 Pro features a 6.3-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1,280 x 2,856 and a dynamic refresh rate ranging from 1-120Hz. It boasts a brighter “Super Actua” display with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits compared to the standard Pixel 9’s 2,700 nits. Meanwhile, the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL sports a 6.8-inch OLED display, maintaining similar specifications with a resolution of 1,344 x 2,992.
Both models feature robust scratch protection, encased in Gorilla Glass Victus 2, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL includes a 5,060mAh battery, compared to the 4,700mAh battery in the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. Charging times remain competitive, with the Pixel 9 Pro reportedly reaching 55% in 30 minutes, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL can hit 70% in the same time frame.
Internally, both models share the latest Google Tensor G4 chipset, coupled with 16GB of RAM and a variety of storage options, including a first-time 1TB option. The camera systems are also identical, featuring a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide camera, and a 50MP telephoto lens, alongside a 48MP front-facing camera.
Google has also improved the camera software, introducing a new HDR pipeline and features such as Magic Eraser and a new option called “Add Me” for group photos. Additionally, the new Zoom Enhance feature uses AI technology for better photo zooming.
The Pixel 9 series guarantees seven years of OS and security updates, and both the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL will launch with Google Gemini as the default assistant, as well as a complimentary year of the Google One AI plan.
Despite these advancements, the pricing strategy has raised eyebrows. The Pixel 9 Pro starts at the same price as the Pixel 8 Pro, yet offers a smaller, less powerful device. The Pixel 9 Pro XL, considered the true successor to the Pixel 8 Pro, is priced higher than its predecessor, with significant increases across all storage options. This scheme has created a confusing landscape of pricing, making it challenging for consumers to discern the value of the new models.
As such, the launch of the Pixel 9 series has met with some skepticism, and further reviews will determine if the devices can win over critics and consumers alike amidst concerns over pricing and feature differentiation.