Google has unveiled its new Pixel 9 series, and it seems they’ve finally achieved the perfect blend of software and hardware to create a truly competitive phone. This latest release includes not just the Pixel 9, but also the Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Alongside these phones, Google also introduced a new watch and Pixel Buds, but let’s focus on the phones for now.
The Pixel 9 Series
Pixel 9
Price: $799
Screen Size: 6.3 inches
Design: Flat matte metal sides and polished glass back
Colors: Porcelain (white), Obsidian (black), Wintergreen, Peony
The base model, Pixel 9, offers a sleek design with flat matte metal sides and a polished glass back available in four colors. Despite being the entry-level model, it boasts a premium feel with a bright 6.3-inch display and thinner bezels.
Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL
Price: $999 (Pro), $1,099 (Pro XL)
Screen Size: 6.3 inches (Pro), 6.8 inches (Pro XL)
Design: Glossy rails with a soft-touch glass back
Colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, Rose Quartz
The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL are the premium models in the lineup. The Pro is the same size as the Pixel 9, but includes additional features such as a third telephoto camera, more RAM, and a better selfie camera. The Pro XL offers a larger 6.8-inch screen and bigger battery, making it ideal for those who prefer a larger device.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Price: $1,799
Screen Size: 6.3 inches (cover display), 8 inches (interior display)
Design: Metal rails with soft-touch matte glass
Colors: Porcelain, Obsidian
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is Google’s entry into the foldable market, and it has been significantly improved from its predecessor. With a larger cover display and an 8-inch interior screen, this foldable offers a seamless experience both open and closed. It also features the Tensor G4 chip, 16GB of RAM, and all the AI benefits of the new Pixel lineup.
Key Features and Improvements
Design and Build
The Pixel 9 series features a more solid and premium build, with flat sides and a heavier feel that gives the phones a solid, flagship feel. The screens are significantly brighter, and the bezels are thinner, providing a more immersive experience. The new ultrasonic fingerprint reader under the display is a welcome upgrade from the previous optical readers.
Camera System
All models come with the same primary and ultrawide cameras, but the Pro models include a telephoto lens. The camera design, known for its distinctive visor look, now features a large lens opening that promises improved photography with more punchy and contrasty images.
AI Features
Google’s focus on AI continues with the Pixel 9 series. New features include:
- Weather App: Redesigned with AI-generated comments about the weather.
- Screenshots App: Gathers all screenshots and scans them for information to help with reminders and searches.
- Pixel Studio: Allows on-device AI-generated art creation with simple text prompts.
- Magic Editor in Photos: Can erase or reframe things in pictures and even create new scenes.
- Add Me Feature: Merges multiple photos to create group shots that include the photographer.
Performance
All Pixel 9 models are powered by the new Tensor G4 chip, which is more powerful and efficient than its predecessor. Google claims a 20% increase in web browsing speed and a 17% improvement in app launching.
New Devices
- Pixel Watch 3: Available in two sizes with brighter screens, longer battery life, and new health features.
- Pixel Buds Pro 2: Smaller design, improved active noise cancellation, and the ability to have conversations with Google Assistant.
Conclusion
The Pixel 9 series marks a significant step forward for Google, combining advanced AI features with robust hardware improvements. Whether you prefer the standard Pixel 9, the enhanced Pro models, or the innovative Pixel 9 Pro Fold, there’s a Pixel for every type of user. The focus on AI, along with the improved build quality and performance, makes the Pixel 9 series a strong contender in the smartphone market.
