Google has once again set the tech world abuzz with its latest announcements, unveiling the highly anticipated Google Pixel 9 series. This lineup includes the flagship Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, the standard Pixel 9, and a refined version of their foldable phone, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Also, Google showcased its groundbreaking AI feature, Gemini, which promises to redefine how we interact with our smartphones.
Sure, at first glance, these might seem like just another generation of Pixel phones. But look closer, and you’ll find that the Google Pixel 9 series is packed with meaningful upgrades and innovations. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL boast top-tier specs and features, while the standard Pixel 9 offers a solid experience at a more accessible price point. And let’s not forget the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google’s latest attempt at perfecting the foldable phone concept.
Plus, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL users will get to experience Gemini’s most advanced capabilities, setting them apart from the rest of the Google Pixel 9 series.
If you’re considering upgrading your phone, the Google Pixel 9 series definitely warrants your attention.
Google Pixel 9 Series: Shared Strengths
While each model in the Google Pixel 9 series has its unique features and strengths, there are several core elements that unify them and contribute to an exceptional user experience.
Pure Android Experience
One of the hallmarks of Pixel phones is their clean and uncluttered Android interface. With the Google Pixel 9 series, you get the latest Android version (Android 14) with no bloatware or unnecessary customizations. And, it is expected to be among the first to receive the upcoming Android 15 update. This translates to a smooth, intuitive, and highly responsive user experience.
Software Updates and Security
Google is committed to providing timely software updates and security patches for its Pixel devices, promising seven years of updates for the Pixel 9 series, similar to the Pixel 8. This means you’ll always have access to the latest features, performance improvements, and security enhancements, ensuring your phone stays up-to-date and protected for years to come.
Google’s AI Prowess
Even the standard Pixel 9 benefits from Google’s AI expertise. Features like Google Assistant, Live Translate, and Call Screen are powered by advanced machine learning algorithms, making your phone smarter and more helpful in everyday life.
Premium Design and Build Quality
One of the most noticeable changes with the Pixel 9 series is the adoption of a flat-edge design, similar to recent iPhone and Galaxy models, moving away from the previous rounded edges. They feel great in the hand and are built to last.
Also, the rear camera layout has been redesigned into a raised oval shape, which no longer connects with the side frame, differing from the signature camera strip of the Pixel 8.
The Pixel 9 series features a new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor embedded in the display, which is generally faster and more accurate than the optical sensor used in the Pixel 8. It also includes Google’s super-bright Actua displays, which provide significantly higher brightness levels compared to previous Pixel models.
Environmental Consciousness
Google has made strides in sustainability with the Pixel 9 series. The phones are made with recycled materials and designed to be easily repaired, reducing their environmental impact.
The Pixel 9 Series Unique AI Features
Gemini Nano: This on-device AI model takes smarts to a whole new level. It understands not just text, but also images, audio, and speech, making interactions more intuitive and contextual. Think of it as your personal genie, always ready to understand and respond to your needs, whether you type, speak, or show it a picture.
Pixel Studio: This innovative app lets you generate visual content based on text prompts, similar to other generative AI tools.
AI-Powered Screenshot Management: The Pixel Screenshots app lets you search for specific information within your captured images. Need to find that flight confirmation number or the address from an event poster? Just ask the app, and it’ll do the digging for you.
AI Weather App: The new Pixel weather app uses AI to deliver more than just basic forecasts. You’ll get AI-generated summaries and detailed predictions, along with practical suggestions for daily activities based on the weather.
Enhanced Camera Features
- Add Me: Solo photographers, rejoice! This new feature lets you seamlessly add yourself to group photos, even without a tripod or a helpful passerby. No more missing out on the fun!
- Magic Editor: Edit backgrounds and other elements in your photos using simple text prompts, giving you even more control over your images.
- Improved Low-Light Performance: The Pixel 9 series boasts upgraded sensors that excel in low-light conditions, ensuring your photos and videos remain sharp and vibrant even when the sun goes down.
Satellite SOS: The Pixel 9 series is the first Android lineup to feature Satellite SOS. This means you can contact emergency services via satellite, even when you’re off the grid with no cellular or Wi-Fi connection. It’s a potentially life-saving feature, especially for those who love outdoor adventures.
Call Notes: This handy feature automatically provides a summary and transcript of your conversations shortly after they end, making it easier to review key points and stay organized.
Durability and Build Quality: The Pixel 9 series is built to last. With Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an improved IP68 water and dust resistance rating, these phones are more resilient than ever.
Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL: Setting the Bar High
Leading the charge in the Google Pixel 9 series are the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. These flagship models push the boundaries of what a smartphone can do, boasting top-tier specs, premium features, and a refined design that builds upon the success of the Pixel 8 series.
Key Improvements from Pixel 8 Pro
- Enhanced Performance: The new Tensor G4 chip delivers a noticeable performance boost over its predecessor. It is expected to improve overall performance, particularly in AI-driven tasks and photography enhancements. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL also feature increased RAM. The Pixel 9 Pro comes with 12 GB of RAM, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL features 16 GB. This increase in RAM supports better multitasking and more efficient handling of demanding applications.
- Brighter and More Immersive Displays: The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL feature even brighter and more color-accurate displays compared to the Pixel 8 Pro.
- Upgraded Camera System: While the main camera setup remains largely the same, there is a new 42 MP telephoto lens with autofocus that significantly improves selfie quality. Google has also refined its image processing algorithms, resulting in even better photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions.
If you’re curious about how the new Pixel 9 series stacks up against its predecessors, check out our ultimate guide comparing the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.
Unmatched Performance
At the heart of these powerhouses lies Google’s Tensor G4 chip, promising lightning-fast performance and seamless multitasking. Whether you’re editing 4K videos, gaming on the go, or juggling multiple apps, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL are built to handle it all with ease.
Stunning Visuals
The Pixel 9 Pro boasts a 6.3-inch OLED LTPO display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, while the Pro XL takes it up a notch with a massive 6.8-inch OLED LTPO display. Both screens deliver stunning visuals with rich colors, deep blacks, and exceptional clarity.
Camera Prowess
Pixel phones have always been synonymous with exceptional camera capabilities, and the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL continue this legacy. Both models feature a triple rear camera system, including a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The new 48 MP telephoto lens improves autofocus and low-light performance. The ultrawide camera captures 110% more light, for clearer low-light images and stunning macro shots.
The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL also feature a 42 MP front camera, a significant upgrade from the 10.5 MP in the Pixel 8 Pro. This improves selfie quality and video calls and now includes autofocus. Thanks to Google’s advanced image processing algorithms and features like Night Sight and Super Res Zoom, you can capture breathtaking photos and videos in any lighting condition.
Pro Model Exclusive AI-Powered Camera Features
Video Boost and Super Res Zoom Video: Video Boost on the Pro models processes Night Sight Videos twice as fast and allows for 8K video resolution. It uses AI upscaling to enhance video quality, even letting you save high-quality still images from video footage. Super Res Zoom Video on the Pro models supports up to 20x zoom in Night Sight Video, combining details from the upgraded telephoto camera with advanced machine learning for enhanced video quality in various lighting conditions.
Enhanced Telephoto Capabilities: The Pro models feature a 48MP 5x telephoto lens that improves autofocus and allows for high-resolution zoom videos, offering more flexibility in capturing distant subjects.
Advanced Camera Features
- Auto Frame in Magic Editor: This AI feature suggests better framing options for photos, using generative AI to fill in the blanks around the subject, enhancing composition.
- Night Sight in Panorama: The Pro models’ improved capabilities allow you to capture stunning low-light panoramas, providing higher-quality images of landscapes and cityscapes even when the sun goes down.
The Gemini Advantage
The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL are the only models in the series to unlock the full potential of Google’s Gemini AI. This means you’ll get access to exclusive features and capabilities that enhance productivity, creativity, and overall user experience.
Temperature sensor
The Pixel 9 Pro series also includes the innovative temperature sensor introduced in the Pixel 8 Pro, offering unique health and wellness tracking capabilities. You can learn more about this feature in our Pixel 8 Pro Temperature Sensor review.
These features, combined with the power and performance of the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL, make them truly compelling flagship smartphones. But what about the standard Pixel 9? Let’s find out what it brings to the table in the next section.
Pixel 9: A Flagship Experience, Made Accessible
While the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL steal the spotlight with their premium features, the standard Pixel 9 shouldn’t be overlooked. It offers a compelling blend of flagship-level performance and affordability.
Striking the Right Balance
The Pixel 9 may not have all the bells and whistles of its Pro siblings, but it still packs a punch. It shares the same powerful Tensor G4 chip, ensuring smooth performance and efficient multitasking, and it comes with 12GB of RAM, an upgrade from the Pixel 8’s 8GB. You’ll also enjoy a beautiful 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals and fluid animations.
Camera Excellence, Simplified
While the Pixel 9 has a dual rear camera system instead of the Pro models’ triple setup, it still captures stunning photos and videos. It features an improved 48 MP ultrawide camera compared to the Pixel 8’s 12 MP, though the main camera setup remains similar. A 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide lens, combined with Google’s advanced image processing, ensure exceptional results in any lighting condition.
Battery Life That Keeps Up
The Pixel 9 may have a slightly smaller battery than its Pro counterparts but has a slightly larger battery at 4,700 mAh compared to the Pixel 8’s 4,575 mAh. This results in a longer battery life, and with fast charging support, you can quickly get back to full power when needed.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Pixel 8a still offers a fantastic experience for budget-conscious users. You can read our in-depth review of the Pixel 8a here.
Next, let’s unfold the possibilities of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and see how it redefines the smartphone experience.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Unfolding a New Era
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold marks a significant step forward in Google’s foldable phone journey. Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, the Pixel Fold, this new iteration brings several refinements and enhancements that aim to deliver a more polished and versatile user experience.
Key Improvements from Pixel Fold
- Slimmer and Lighter: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold boasts a slimmer profile and a lighter weight compared to the Pixel Fold, making it more comfortable to hold and carry.
- More Durable Hinge: Google has refined the hinge mechanism for improved durability and smoother folding action.
- Brighter, Bigger, and More Color-Accurate Displays: Both the inner and outer displays have been upgraded with higher brightness levels and improved color accuracy. When unfolded, you’re greeted with a spacious 8-inch OLED display, and when folded, the display is 6.3 inches allowing for a compact and portable design without sacrificing functionality.
- Faster Performance: Thanks to the new Tensor G4 chip, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers a noticeable performance boost over the Pixel Fold, ensuring smoother multitasking and faster app launches.
- Upgraded Cameras: The camera system has been enhanced with improved sensors and software. The rear camera setup has been redesigned. It includes a 48MP Quad PD wide camera, a 10.5MP Dual PD ultrawide camera, and a 10.8MP Dual PD telephoto lens. The front cameras on both the internal and external displays are 10MP Dual PD lenses.
Software Tailored for Folding
Google has optimized Android 14 to take full advantage of the foldable form factor. Apps seamlessly transition between the inner and outer displays, and you can run multiple apps side-by-side for enhanced productivity. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold also introduces new gestures and interactions that make navigating the foldable interface a breeze.
Flagship Specs, Folded in
Don’t let the foldable design fool you; the Pixel 9 Pro Fold shares the same Tensor G4 chip as its Pro siblings, ensuring blazing-fast performance and efficient multitasking. You also get a triple rear camera system, a vibrant outer display, a long-lasting battery, and unique AI features that make it a true flagship in every sense.
Note: the Pixel 9 Pro Fold doesn’t have a temperature sensor.
The Price Tag
Foldable phones are still a premium category, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is no exception. It’s expected to be the most expensive model in the Pixel 9 series. However, if you’re looking for a cutting-edge device that pushes the boundaries of smartphone innovation, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is worth considering.
Pricing and Availability
As with any flagship smartphone launch, the price is a key consideration for many potential buyers. Here’s a breakdown of the confirmed pricing for the Google Pixel 9 series:
- Pixel 9: Starting at $799 USD
- Pixel 9 Pro: Starting at $999 USD
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: Starting at $1,099 USD
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Starting at $1,799 USD
The base Pixel 9 comes with 128GB or 256GB storage options. The Pro models offer more storage choices, ranging from 128GB to 1TB.
The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL will be fully available on August 22. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold will be released on September 4. The phones are currently available for preorder on the Google Store, Amazon, Best Buy, and major carriers like Verizon.
Consider your priorities, budget, and desired features when making your decision. And remember, regardless of which model you choose, you’ll be getting a smartphone that delivers a pure Android experience, exceptional camera capabilities, and the promise of long-term software support.
The Google Pixel 9 series is poised to redefine the smartphone landscape.
FAQs
What sets the Pixel 9 series apart from previous Pixel models?
The Pixel 9 series introduces several key advancements, including the powerful Tensor G4 chip, upgraded cameras with enhanced low-light performance and new AI features, brighter displays, extended battery life, a refreshed design, and the integration of Gemini AI capabilities
Can I use Satellite SOS anywhere in the world?
Initially, Satellite SOS will be available only in the US and will be free for the first two years of Pixel ownership. Google plans to expand its availability to other regions in the future.
Does the Pixel 9 series support 5G connectivity?
Yes, all models in the Pixel 9 series support 5G connectivity, enabling faster download and upload speeds, improved network reliability, and enhanced overall performance.
How does the Pixel 9 Pro Fold compare to other foldable phones on the market?
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold stands out with its refined hinge mechanism, durable build, optimized software experience, and powerful Tensor G4 chip. It offers a compelling alternative to other foldable phones, particularly for those who value a pure Android experience and Google’s AI ecosystem.
When will the Google Pixel 9 series be available for purchase?
What are the key differences between the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL?
The Pixel 9 and the Pro have a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro XL has a 6.8-inch display, respectively. The Pro models have an additional telephoto lens, and exclusive camera features like Video Boost and Super Res Zoom Video. The Pro models offer more RAM (16GB) compared to the standard Pixel 9 (12GB). The Pro models get full access to Gemini’s advanced features.
Photo credits: Google
