Google has introduced its latest smartphone lineup, the new Pixel 9 series, at the MadeByGoogle 2024 event. The new series consists of three models: the standard Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. Each device aims to enhance the user experience through improved hardware and advanced AI capabilities, building upon the foundation laid by previous Pixel generations.
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Pixel 9 Series: Design and Display Enhancements
The Pixel 9 series refines the design language established by its predecessors, featuring an updated camera module that creates a distinctive profile. Google has focused on improving durability, with the new models reportedly performing twice as well in drop tests compared to the previous generation. The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro share dimensions of 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL measures 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm. The devices weigh 198g, 199g, and 221g respectively, balancing durability with portability.
Display technology sees notable advancements across the Pixel 9 lineup. All models feature OLED displays protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. The standard 9 comes with a 6.3-inch Actua display (1080 x 2424 pixels) supporting a 60-120Hz refresh rate. The 9 Pro and Pro XL models are equipped with Super Actua displays, offering resolutions of 1280 x 2856 and 1344 x 2992 pixels respectively. These Pro displays incorporate LTPO technology, allowing for a variable refresh rate from 1-120Hz, potentially improving battery efficiency. Peak brightness levels have been increased, with the standard Pixel 9 reaching 2700 nits and the Pro models achieving 3000 nits, which should enhance visibility in bright outdoor conditions.
Performance and Memory Specifications
The Pixel 9 series is powered by Google’s latest Tensor G4 chipset, developed in collaboration with Google DeepMind. This processor aims to enhance AI capabilities and overall device performance. The baseline model comes with 12GB of RAM, while the Pro models offer 16GB, potentially providing improved multitasking capabilities. Storage options vary, with the standard Pixel 9 available in 128GB or 256GB configurations, and the Pro models offering up to 1TB of storage. To address thermal management, Google has implemented a new vapor chamber cooling system in the Pixel 9 series. That fact alone should improve long term performance and improve device thermals, a sticking point for Tensor powered devices.
In addition, the new devices include a new ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. This is a first for non Samsung devices, and should be a welcome improvement.
Camera System and Imaging Capabilities
Google continues to focus on camera performance with the devices announced today. All models feature a 50MP main camera with an f/1.68 aperture and a 48MP ultrawide camera with an f/1.7 aperture and 123° field of view. The Pro models add a 48MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom. Front-facing cameras have also been upgraded, with a 10.5MP sensor on the standard model and a 42MP sensor on the Pro models.
The announced devices introduce new camera features, including an “Add Me” function for group photos, improvements to Night Sight and Astrophotography modes, and enhancements to Portrait Mode. The Pro models offer additional capabilities such as Pro controls and High-Res shooting up to 50MP. Video recording capabilities have been expanded, with the Pro models supporting 8K video at 30fps (with Video Boost). All models offer 4K video recording at various frame rates and include features like Audio Magic Eraser and improved video stabilization.
Software and AI Integration
The new Pixel series launches with Android 14 and introduces Gemini as the new default AI assistant. This change aims to provide more interactive and context-aware AI interactions. Google has committed to providing 7 years of OS, security, and feature updates for all models in the lineup, which may appeal to users looking for long-term software support. We also expect a quick upgrade to Android 15 in the near future, which looks to contain many improvements.
Battery, Charging, and Connectivity
Battery life in the Pixel 9 series has been optimized, with the standard 9 and 9 Pro featuring 4700mAh batteries, and the 9 Pro XL incorporating a 5060mAh cell. Google states that all models offer “all-day battery life” with an Extreme Battery Saver mode extending this significantly (up to 72 hours per Google). Charging capabilities have been improved, with the standard and Pro models supporting up to 27W wired charging, and the Pro XL offering 37W charging. Wireless charging has also been enhanced, particularly for the Pro XL, which supports up to 23W with the Google Pixel Stand (2nd Gen).
The new Pixel devices support the latest connectivity standards, including Wi-Fi 7 (Wi-Fi 6 in India), Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC. The Pro models also include Ultra-Wideband technology. All models offer dual SIM functionality with both physical Nano SIM and eSIM options. The latest devices also support Satellite SOS, a feature allowing you to make calls and texts from satellite on participating carriers,
Should You Upgrade to the Pixel 9?
The decision to upgrade to a Pixel 9 device depends on various factors, including your current smartphone and specific needs. For users with Pixel 7 or older models, the Pixel 9 series offers notable improvements in performance, camera capabilities, and AI features. The enhanced display technology, particularly in the Pro models, may also be a compelling reason to upgrade for those who prioritize visual quality.
Pixel 8 users might find the improvements in the new series more incremental. While the new models offer enhanced AI capabilities and some camera improvements along with performance and efficiency bumps and a new modem, the overall experience may not differ drastically from the previous generation. However, if specific features like the improved low-light photography or the new Gemini AI assistant appeal to you, an upgrade could be worthwhile.
It’s worth noting that the latest Pixel series comes with a slight price increase ($100 more for the baseline model) compared to its predecessors. Potential buyers should weigh this against the new features and improvements to determine if the upgrade justifies the cost.
Interestingly, industry sources suggest that next year’s Pixel 10 series is expected to feature a Tensor G5 chip manufactured by TSMC. This change could potentially result in significant efficiency and performance gains. Users who prioritize having the latest technology might want to consider this information in their decision-making process.
Looking Ahead: Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Future Developments
While this article focuses on the main models announced today, it’s worth mentioning that Google has also introduced the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, a foldable device that expands the Pixel lineup into new form factors. We will be covering the Pixel 9 Pro Fold in a separate, detailed article to give this innovative device the attention it deserves.
As smartphone technology continues to evolve, the Pixel 9 series represents Google’s current vision for the future of mobile devices. With the anticipated shift to TSMC for chip manufacturing in the next generation, it’s clear that Google is committed to ongoing improvements in its smartphone offerings.
Conclusion: Pixel 9 Series in the Smartphone Landscape
The Pixel 9 series represents Google’s latest effort to advance smartphone technology, with a focus on AI integration, camera capabilities, and overall user experience. While the new models offer several improvements over their predecessors, their impact on the competitive smartphone market remains to be seen. As these devices become available to consumers and reviewers, real-world performance and user feedback will provide a clearer picture of how the Pixel 9 series stacks up against other flagship smartphones.
The introduction of the Pixel 9 series, along with the separate Pixel 9 Pro Fold, demonstrates Google’s commitment to innovation in the smartphone space. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these devices perform and how they influence the direction of future Pixel releases.
Preorder: 9 Pro/XL | Regular 9