Google has officially launched its latest flagship smartphones, the Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel 9 Pro XL, marking a significant leap forward from the previous generation. This year’s launch event was the most diverse in several years, showcasing not only the two new Pro models but also other exciting devices like two smartwatches and wireless earbuds.
The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are remarkably similar despite their size difference, offering a no-compromise experience for users seeking the best Google has to offer. Here’s a detailed look at their key features, specs, and what makes them stand out.
Pricing and Availability
The Pixel 9 Pro starts at $999, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL comes in at $1,099. Both phones are available for pre-order starting August 13, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL shipping on August 22. The smaller Pixel 9 Pro will be available for purchase on September 4.
Design and Display
The Pixel 9 Pro features a dramatic design overhaul compared to its predecessor. The most noticeable change is the redesigned camera bump, which thankfully ditches the previous “Among Us” character-like visor shape. The Pixel 9 Pro XL mirrors the smaller model’s design, making it a scaled-up version. Both phones draw inspiration from the iPhone 15 and Samsung Galaxy S24 series, sporting flat edges crafted from 100% recycled aluminum. The frame seamlessly matches the body color.
The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are IP68 certified for dust and water resistance, capable of withstanding submersion in up to 5 meters of water for 30 minutes. The Pixel 9 Pro comes in four colors: Obsidian black and Porcelain white (carried over from the previous generation), Hazel green (matching the Google Pixel Watch 3), and a new Rose Quartz pink.
Both phones feature OLED displays with LTPO support, allowing for dynamic refresh rates ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz depending on the content displayed. The Pixel 9 Pro offers a 6.3-inch screen with 1280 x 2856 resolution, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a larger 6.8-inch display with 1344 x 2992 resolution. Both screens support 24-bit color depth, offering a vibrant 16 million colors. Google has also increased the peak brightness to 2,000 nits in high brightness mode and a dazzling 3,000 nits at peak brightness per pixel. HDR playback is supported with HDR10+, ensuring an immersive viewing experience. Both displays are protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced durability.
Performance and Software
Powering both Pixel 9 Pro models is Google’s custom-designed Tensor G4 chipset. This chip, based on a modified version of the Exynos 2400, features eight Arm V9.2 cores, including one Cortex-X4 prime core, three A720 cores for high-performance tasks, and four A520 cores for efficient operation. While initial performance benchmarks are not yet available, the Tensor G4 is expected to deliver a 10% performance improvement over its predecessor. This increase is coupled with enhanced AI capabilities and a generous 16GB of RAM, making it a powerful contender in the flagship market.
The Pixel 9 Pro series comes with Android 14 out of the box, which might come as a surprise to users expecting Android 15. Despite this, Google remains committed to long-term support, offering seven years of software updates for both phones, guaranteeing a smooth and secure experience for years to come.
The Pixel 9 Pro series is built upon a foundation of AI, utilizing Google’s Geminin Nano large language model to enhance various aspects of the user experience. From Gmail to Messages and Phone, AI seamlessly integrates into everyday tasks. For the Pixel 9 Pro specifically, certain low-level tasks are processed directly on the device. New features like Pixel Screenshots utilize context to make organizing and finding screenshots easier. Additionally, the Pixel 9 Pro offers a free year of access to the powerful Gemini Advanced model, along with a Google One subscription and 2TB of external storage. After the initial year, these services will require a subscription.
Camera Capabilities
The Pixel 9 Pro series maintains the tradition of Pro-grade Pixel phones by featuring a triple camera system. This setup includes a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 48MP ultrawide camera, and a 48MP telephoto camera, all equipped with optical stabilization and autofocus. The telephoto lens offers a 5x optical zoom on both models. While the underlying sensors appear similar to last year’s models, the lenses have been upgraded for improved image quality.
The front camera has received a major upgrade, now boasting a 42MP resolution with autofocus. The camera system also incorporates laser autofocus for fast and accurate focusing and a flicker sensor to eliminate unwanted banding in indoor lighting. Both phones can record videos at up to 8K resolution at 30fps or 4K at 60fps.
The Pixel 9 Pro series offers an impressive array of software-powered camera features, including Astrophotography, Frequent Faces, Top Shot, Night Sight, and more. For video recording, you’ll find Night Sight Video, Super Boost, slow-motion videos at up to 240fps, Cinematic Blur, and Pan features. The new Super Res Video mode enhances the quality of videos captured from a distance using the 5x telephoto lens. Additional software features like Magic Eraser, Zoom Enhance, Best Take, Audio Magic Erase, and Wind Noise Reduction further enhance the user experience.
Battery and Charging
The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL feature different battery capacities to match their screen sizes. The Pixel 9 Pro boasts a 4,700mAh battery, while the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL comes equipped with a 5,060mAh battery. Google claims both phones offer 24 hours of battery life, extending up to 100 hours in Extreme Battery Saver mode.
Charging speeds also vary between the two models. The Pixel 9 Pro supports 27W wired charging and 21W wireless charging, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers faster 37W wired charging and 23W wireless charging. To achieve the fastest charging rates, users will need to purchase compatible charging bricks and wireless charging pads separately. Both phones also support reverse wireless charging, allowing users to wirelessly charge compatible accessories like earbuds or other phones.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL offer a compelling combination of innovative design, powerful hardware, and a host of AI-powered features. With their exceptional cameras, long-lasting battery life, and extensive software support, these phones are poised to become top contenders in the premium smartphone market.
