Google Pixel 9 Series: A Comprehensive Look at the Latest Flagship Smartphones

Ultimate Flagship Face-off: iPhone 15 Pro Max vs Google Pixel 9 XL

The battle between flagship smartphones has reached new heights with the release of the highly anticipated Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max. These devices represent the pinnacle of mobile technology, offering innovative features and unparalleled performance. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the specifications and capabilities of these two powerhouses, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision about which device best suits your needs and preferences. Both the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max boast stunning displays that will captivate your eyes. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features a massive 6.8-inch Actu OLED display with an impressive resolution of 2992×1344 pixels, delivering an exceptional pixel density of 482 PPI. This display also features a peak brightness of 3000 nits, ensuring that your content remains vibrant and easily visible even under bright sunlight. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro Max sports a slightly smaller but equally impressive 6.7-inch OLED XDR display. With a resolution of 2796×1290 pixels and a pixel density of 460 PPI, the iPhone's display offers crystal-clear visuals and deep, rich colors. While the iPhone 15 Pro Max's peak brightness reaches 2000 nits, slightly lower than the Pixel 9 Pro XL, both displays are sure to provide an immersive and enjoyable viewing experience. When it comes to performance, both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max are equipped with innovative processors that deliver lightning-fast speeds and seamless multitasking. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by the Tensor G4 processor, an 8-core CPU that features 50% less battery power consumption compared to its predecessor, the G3. This means you can enjoy longer battery life without compromising on performance. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, on the other hand, features the A17 Pro chip, which includes a 6-core CPU, 6-core GPU, and a remarkable 16-core Neural Engine. The A17 Pro's Neural Engine offers advanced AI capabilities, allowing the iPhone to handle complex tasks and machine learning algorithms with ease. While both processors ensure top-tier performance, the iPhone's A17 Pro chip may have a slight edge in terms of AI-related tasks and overall efficiency. When it comes to RAM and storage, both devices offer generous options to cater to your needs. The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes equipped with a substantial 16 GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and seamless app switching. It also offers storage options ranging from 128 GB to a whopping 1 TB, providing ample space for your photos, videos, and apps. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, while offering a slightly lower 8 GB of RAM, still delivers excellent performance and efficient memory management. In terms of storage, the iPhone starts at a higher base of 256 GB and goes up to 1 TB, ensuring that you have plenty of room for your digital content. While the Pixel 9 Pro XL's higher RAM may give it an edge in multitasking, both devices offer sufficient storage options to accommodate your needs. The operating system is the backbone of your smartphone experience, and both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max offer their own unique flavors. The Pixel 9 Pro XL runs on the latest version of Android, Android 15, which brings a host of new features, improvements, and optimizations to the table. With Android 15, you can expect a more intuitive user interface, enhanced privacy and security features, and seamless integration with Google's ecosystem of apps and services. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, on the other hand, runs on iOS 17, Apple's proprietary operating system known for its simplicity, security, and smooth performance. iOS 17 introduces new features and enhancements, such as an improved Siri, advanced AR capabilities, and tighter integration with Apple's services like iMessage and FaceTime. Additionally, with iOS 18 on the horizon, iPhone users can look forward to even more exciting updates and improvements in the near future. Ultimately, the choice between Android and iOS comes down to personal preference and familiarity with each ecosystem. Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a smartphone, and both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max aim to keep you powered throughout the day. The Pixel 9 Pro XL houses a massive 5600 mAh battery, which promises an impressive 20% better battery life compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 8 Pro. This means you can expect your Pixel 9 Pro XL to last longer on a single charge, even with heavy usage. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, while sporting a slightly smaller 4441 mAh battery, is known for its efficient power management and optimization. Apple's tight integration of hardware and software ensures that the iPhone 15 Pro Max can deliver all-day battery life, even with demanding tasks and extended use. While the Pixel 9 Pro XL may have a larger battery capacity, both devices are designed to keep you connected and productive throughout the day without constantly reaching for a charger. When it comes to charging capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max offer different options to suit your needs. The Pixel 9 Pro XL supports 45W wired charging, allowing you to quickly top up your battery when time is of the essence. It also offers 23W wireless charging, providing a convenient and cable-free way to charge your device. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro Max supports 27W wired charging and 15W wireless charging. While the iPhone's charging speeds may be slightly slower compared to the Pixel 9 Pro XL, they still offer a quick and efficient way to recharge your device. The faster charging speeds of the Pixel 9 Pro XL can be a significant advantage for users who are always on the go and need to quickly juice up their phone between activities. Both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max are designed to be both durable and stylish. Weighing in at 221 grams each, these devices strike a balance between heft and comfort, ensuring a premium feel in the hand without being too cumbersome. Both smartphones also boast IP68 water resistance, providing peace of mind when it comes to accidental spills or exposure to the elements. Whether you're caught in a sudden rainstorm or accidentally drop your phone in water, the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max are built to withstand the challenges of everyday life. With their combination of durability and elegant design, these flagship devices are sure to turn heads while offering reliable protection against the wear and tear of daily use. In today's fast-paced world, staying connected is more important than ever, and both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max offer innovative connectivity options. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 7, ensuring lightning-fast data transfers and seamless connectivity with compatible devices. With Wi-Fi 7, you can expect faster speeds, lower latency, and improved network capacity, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and downloading large files. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, while still impressive, offers Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E. While Wi-Fi 6E is a significant improvement over previous generations, it may not match the raw speed and capacity of Wi-Fi 7. However, both devices offer excellent connectivity options that will keep you connected and productive, whether you're at home, in the office, or on the go. One of the most anticipated features of any flagship smartphone is its camera capabilities, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max do not disappoint. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features an impressive triple-camera setup, featuring a 50 MP main camera, a 48 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 48 MP telephoto lens. This powerful combination allows you to capture stunning photos and videos in a variety of scenarios, from wide landscapes to detailed close-ups. The Pixel 9 Pro XL also offers 4K video recording and an innovative AI upscaling feature that can convert your footage to 8K resolution, ensuring that your memories are preserved in the highest possible quality. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, while sporting a slightly different configuration, is equally impressive. It features a 48 MP main camera, a 12 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 12 MP telephoto lens. While the ultra-wide and telephoto lenses may have lower resolutions compared to the Pixel 9 Pro XL, the iPhone 15 Pro Max's camera system is known for its exceptional image processing and color accuracy. It also offers 4K video recording and includes a LiDAR sensor, which enhances the device's augmented reality (AR) capabilities, opening up new possibilities for immersive experiences and creative applications. In the age of social media and video calls, a high-quality front camera is essential, and both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max deliver. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features a 48 MP front camera that captures stunning selfies and offers 4K video recording capabilities. With this level of resolution and video quality, you can ensure that your self-portraits and video calls are always crystal-clear and detailed. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, while sporting a lower resolution 12 MP front camera, still delivers excellent results thanks to Apple's advanced image processing algorithms. It also offers 4K video recording, making it ideal for high-quality video calls and vlogging. Whether you're snapping a quick selfie or conducting a professional video conference, both devices offer front camera capabilities that will exceed your expectations. When considering a flagship smartphone, pricing is undoubtedly a crucial factor. The Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max represent the pinnacle of mobile technology, and their prices reflect their premium features and capabilities. The Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at $1,099 for the 128 GB model, offering a more affordable entry point for those who don't require extensive storage. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro Max starts at a higher price point of $1,199 for the 256 GB model. This difference in starting prices is primarily due to the iPhone's higher base storage capacity. It's important to consider your storage needs and budget when deciding between these two devices. While both smartphones offer exceptional value for their features and performance, the Pixel 9 Pro XL may be more appealing to those who prioritize affordability without compromising on innovative technology. In addition to their impressive features and capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max offer a range of color options to suit your personal style. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is available in a variety of unique and eye-catching colors, allowing you to express your individuality and stand out from the crowd. Whether you prefer bold and vibrant hues or more subtle and sophisticated shades, the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a color option that will appeal to your taste. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, on the other hand, offers a selection of classic and premium finishes, including Titanium Black, Blue, White, and Natural.

Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 8 Pro: Is it time to upgrade? | Digital Trends

Google has finally let the world in on its not-so-well-kept secret: the Google Pixel 9 series is here, and all four new phones have something to offer. The Google Pixel 9 is the entry point to Google's latest devices, while the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is Google's second-generation foldable. And if you bought the Google Pixel 8 Pro last year, you may wonder if the Google Pixel 9 Pro is worth the upgrade. Should you get the smaller Pixel 9 Pro or the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL? And is there any difference between all these devices besides the size and a new processor? If you're coming from an older phone or buying into the Pixel ecosystem for the first time, is it worth buying the Pixel 9 Pro, or is last year's Pixel 8 Pro good enough? Recommended Videos Here's how the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL compare to the Pixel 8 Pro. Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 8 Pro: specs Google Pixel 8 Pro Google Pixel 9 Pro Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Size 162.6 x 76.5 x 8.8 mm (6.40 x 3.01 x 0.35 inches) 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm (6.0 x 2.8 x 0.30 inches) 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm (6,4 x 3 x 0.30 inches) Weight 213 grams (7.51 ounces) 199 grams (7.0 ounces) 221 grams (7.8 ounces) Screen size 6.7-inch LTPO OLED (1-120Hz) Up to 1600 nits (HDR), 2400 nits (peak) 6.3-inch LTPO OLED (1-120Hz) Up to 2000 nits (HDR), 3000 nits (peak) 6.8-inch LTPO OLED (1-120Hz) Up to 2000 nits (HDR), 3000 nits (peak) Screen resolution 1344 x 2992 resolution at 489 pixels per inch 1280 x 2856 resolution at 495 pixels per inch 1344 x 2992 resolution at 486 pixels per inch Operating system Android 14 Android 14 Android 14 Storage 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB MicroSD card slot No No No Tap-to-pay services Google Pay Google Pay Google Pay Processor Tensor G3 Tensor G4 Tensor G4 RAM 12GB 16GB 16GB Cameras Rear: 50-megapixel primary, 48MP ultrawide 48MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom Front: 10.5MP Rear: 50-megapixel primary 48MP ultrawide 48MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom Front: 42MP Rear: 50-megapixel primary 48MP ultrawide 48MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom Front: 42MP Video Rear: Up to 4K at 60 fps, FHD at 120 fps, and 240 fps for slow motion. 10-bit HDR and OIS. Front: Up to 4K at 60 fps Rear: Up to 8K at 30 frames per second (fps), 4K at 60 fps, FHD at 60 fps. Super Res Zoom Video up to 20x Front: Up to 4K at 60 fps Rear: Up to 8K at 30 frames per second (fps), 4K at 60 fps, FHD at 60 fps. Super Res Zoom Video up to 20x Front: Up to 4K at 60 fps Bluetooth Yes, Bluetooth 5.3 Yes, Bluetooth 5.3 Yes, Bluetooth 5.3 Ports USB-C USB-C USB-C Biometrics Optical in-display fingerprint sensor and face recognition Ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor and face recognition Ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor and face recognition Water resistance IP68 IP68 IP68 Battery 5,050mAh 30W wired charging Wireless Charging (23W) 4,700mAh 45W wired charging Wireless Charging (21W) 5,060mAh 45W wired charging Wireless Charging (23W) App marketplace Google Play Store Google Play Store Google Play Store Network support 5G 5G 5G Colors Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, Mint Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, Rose Quartz Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, Rose Quartz Price From $999 From $999 From $1099 Available from All major offline and online retailers All major offline and online retailers All major offline and online retailers Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 8 Pro: design and display The Pixel 9 Pro XL can best be considered the replacement for the Pixel 8 Pro, but for the first time this year, it has a smaller brother designed for those who want a Pro experience in a smaller form factor. Designed to offer choice without needing to sacrifice the core specs, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL both have the same specs aside from display size and battery capacities. The former has a 6.3-inch Super Actua display, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 6.8-inch Super Actua display. If you're considering upgrading from the Pixel 8 Pro, you'll probably find the XL most comfortable, but if you've held off on buying the 8 Pro because the 6.7-inch display was too large, you'll want to consider the Pixel 9 Pro. The new Super Actua displays are the brightest on a Pixel yet, with up to 2000 nits HDR and 3000 nits peak brightness. This makes them 25% brighter than the Pixel 8 Pro and some of the brightest displays on any phone to date. One of our favorite things about Pixel phones is the array of color options. Google knows how to make phones in attractive colors, especially in a way that isn't garish or tacky. The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL both come in four stylish colors: Obsidian (aka White), Porcelain (aka Black), Hazel, and Rose Quartz. There's no follow-up to the incredible blue Pixel 8 Pro, but the Rose Quartz color is a great choice this year. Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 8 Pro: performance and battery A new phone means a new processor, but there's no big switch in architecture or supplier. The Pixel 8 Pro was powered by the Tensor G3, and the Tensor G4 powers the Pixel 9 Pro series. Recognizing the need for additional memory, especially with the AI-first experience, the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL both also come with 16GB of RAM (versus 12GB in the Pixel 8 Pro). The Tensor G4 is designed to bring improvements in day-to-day tasks while also ensuring that all Pixel 9 devices can run Google's most advanced AI modals efficiently. Google says the Tensor G4 is the first processor to run Gemini Nano with multimodality. This means you'll get the best AI performance -- 45 tokens per second, to be precise -- with any of the new Pixel 9 series, and all of them can recognize text, image, audio, and speech inputs. Google isn't the first to launch AI features, and it won't be the last, but if you buy the Pixel 9 Pro, you'll get a year of Gemini Advanced for free (it normally costs $20 per month). Gemini is also the default assistant on all Pixel 9 phones, although you can change it to Google Assistant. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL technically has a larger battery (5.060 mAh) than the Pixel 8 Pro (5,050 mAh), but at just 10mAh bigger, it might as well be identical. The battery life on the Pixel 8 Pro left many people with concerns, so it's unclear just how much better the battery could be. If the Pixel 9 Pro XL battery does prove to be better, this will be down to the efficiency of the Tensor G4 processor. The Pixel 9 Pro has a smaller 4,700mAh battery which is likely to have inferior battery life compared to the Pixel 8 Pro. This year, Google is giving the Pixel a much-needed charging boost. The Pixel 8 Pro offers 30-watt charging that takes a phone to 50% in 30 minutes, while the whole Pixel 9 Pro series now supports 45W charging. For the Pixel 9 Pro, this means up to 55% charge in about 30 minutes, while for the Pixel 9 Pro XL, Google says it will go up to 70% in about 30 minutes. There's also Qi wireless charging, but no support for MagSafe-like Qi2 magnetic wireless charging. Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 8 Pro: cameras The cameras on the Pixel 9 Pro are mostly the same as those on the Pixel 8 Pro, albeit with a few small tweaks. That means you get the same triple camera system, including the 50MP wide camera, 48MP ultrawide camera with Macro Focus, and the 48MP telephoto lens that offers 5x optical zoom. Google is known for making magic by pairing AI with excellent camera hardware, and the Pixel 9 Pro offers great photos at various zoom lengths -- including 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 5x, and 10x -- all without extra hardware. Super Res Zoom -- which lets you zoom up to 30x -- is now also available in video for the first time. The front-facing camera is a welcome boost from last year. The Pixel 8 Pro sports a 10.5MP ultrawide selfie camera with an f/2.2 aperture, but the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have the best of any Pixel to date. The new 42MP selfie camera offers 4x the detail and presumably can use pixel binning to let in much more light at the 10.5MP range. Expect much better selfies on the Pixel 9 Pro versus the Pixel 8 Pro. Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 8 Pro: software and updates If you're a Google Pixel fan, you may have noticed that this year's launch is early -- much earlier than ever before. Previous launches took place in October, so the Pixel series was the first to run the latest Android OS, but this year's launch is too early for that. Android 15 is still in beta, and the Pixel 9 series won't launch with Android 15 out of the box. Instead, there's Android 14 out of the box, with a future update to Android 15 sdet to arrive when it's available. It's unclear whether this upgrade to Android 15 will count as one of the seven guaranteed version updates. Nonetheless, Google is promising 7/7/7 as its update schedule: seven years of updates, seven years of security updates, and seven years of Pixel feature drops. This means it should be supported until August 2031, while the Pixel 8 Pro will be supported until October 2030. With this year's launch timing, however, both phones should technically end with the same Android version. Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 8 Pro: AI features As you might expect, the new Pixel 9 series debuts many AI features. Some of these may come to the Pixel 8 Pro in future Drops, but it's unclear which ones and whether some may require the Tensor G4. Google understands how to make magic with software, and some of these features could be just as transformative as Magic Eraser was three years ago. Add Me will likely be the most used of these new features as it solves one of the biggest problems: how to take a photo with your friend that isn't a selfie. Sure, you can ask a random stranger, or you can just rely on Google. Add Me works by taking two photos - one with you and one with your friend - and then stitching them together. It's an elegant solution to a very real problem and one that's likely to delight many people. Magic Eraser is also getting a small update in the form of Auto Frame. Magic Eraser can now recompose a photo to improve the composition of a photo, and you can also type a prompt to generate new items and add them to the photo. There are also AI-powered enhancements to Video Boost, which can apply HDR+ at any zoom level and can also upscale to 8K, although the latter is limited to just the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL. One new addition that is particularly useful is the Pixel Screenshots app. We've all taken screenshots of important information -- such as apartment codes or Wi-Fi passwords -- only to never be able to find those screenshots later. Now, screenshots go into the dedicated app, and you can just ask Gemini to help you find them by providing details. For example, ask Gemini for your apartment codes, and it'll pass your request on to the Pixel Screenshots app. The app will surface the codes and show you the corresponding screenshots. It's surprisingly neat and should be quite helpful for just about anyone. Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 8 Pro: price and availability The Pixel 8 Pro started at $999 and came with 12GB of RAM alongside 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage. The Pixel 9 Pro starts at the same price with the same storage options, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL is $100 more. Both of the Pixel 9 series phones come with 16GB of RAM. Essentially, this means the Pixel 9 Pro XL -- which is the most similar in size to the Pixel 8 Pro -- is slightly more expensive this year. Much like the price increase for the Galaxy Z Fold 6, it's hard to truly justify this, although at least the Pixel 9 Pro is more of an upgrade than Samsung's latest foldable. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are available to preorder as of August 13. The Pixel 9 Pro XL officially goes on sale on August 22, while the smaller Pixel 9 Pro won't be officially available until September 4. Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 8 Pro: verdict Should you upgrade from the Pixel 8 Pro to the Pixel 9 Pro or the Pixel 9 Pro XL, or should you buy the Pixel 8 Pro instead of either of the new devices? The answer, as always, depends on what you are looking for. There's a strong chance that you can snag a great Pixel 8 Pro deal, which would make it an excellent purchase. Similarly, if you want the blue version from last year (which is really stunning), you must go for the Pixel 8 Pro. However, if you're new to the Pixel ecosystem, we recommend buying the new Pixel 9 Pro series. There's no reason to pay the same price for last year's phone. We do recommend the Tensor G4 over last year's Tensor G3 processor, so avoid the Pixel 8 Pro if you can help it. If you want a smaller version of the Pro phone without the trade-offs that come from a non-Pro like the regular Pixel 9, the Pixel 9 Pro is the one to buy. If you want the next generation of the Pixel 8 Pro in a similar size (albeit 0.1 inches larger), the Pixel 9 Pro XL is your friend. If you're currently holding on to a Pixel 8 Pro, your decision is a bit different. If your Pixel 8 Pro is still running well and you don't have any issues with it, the Pixel 9 Pro (or the 9 Pro XL) is unlikely to be a revolutionary upgrade for you. The upgraded specs are certainly nice, but they also aren't life-changing. If you like your Pixel 8 Pro just fine, go ahead and hold on to it. But if you have extra cash to burn and like having the newest and shiniest phone, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL won't leave you disappointed.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Do you really need to upgrade?

Google has just wrapped up its Made by Google August event, where it revealed the new Pixel 9 series. This time around, Google is launching four phones at once: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. But if you already have a Google Pixel 8, do you really need to upgrade to the Google Pixel 9? Let's break it all down here. Recommended Videos Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: specs Google Pixel 9 Google Pixel 8 Dimensions 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm 6.0 x 2.8 x 0.3 inches 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm 5.93 x 2.79 x 0.35 inches Weight 198 grams 7 ounces 187 grams 6.60 ounces Display 6.3-inch Actua OLED display 1080 x 2424 resolution at 422 ppi 60-120Hz dynamic refresh rate 1800 nits (HDR)/2700 nits (peak) 6.2-inch Actua OLED display 1080 x 2400 resolution at 428 ppi 120Hz refresh rate 1400 nits (HDR)/2000 nits (peak) Durability IP68 Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 IP68 Corning Gorilla Glass Victus Colors Peony Wintergreen Obsidian Porcelain Rose Mint Obsidian Porcelain Processor Google Tensor G4 Google Tensor G3 RAM 12GB 8GB Storage 128GB 256GB 128GB 256GB Software Android 14 Android 14 Updates 7 years (through Android 21 or 22) 7 years (through Android 21) Rear cameras 50MP main camera, f/1.68 aperture and 82-degree FOV 48MP ultrawide lens, f/1.7 aperture and 123-degree FOV 50MP main camera, f/1.7 aperture 12MP ultrawide lens, f/2.2 aperture and 126-degree FOV Front camera 10.5MP with autofocus, f/2.2 aperture and 95-degree ultrawide FOV 10.5MP f/2.2 aperture Battery 4,700mAh 4,575mAh Charging 27W wired fast charging 15W wireless (with Google Pixel Stand 2nd gen) or 12W with Qi-compatible wireless chargers Reverse wireless 27W wired fast charging 18W wireless charging Reverse wireless Price Starts at $799 Starts at $699 Review Coming soon Google 8 review Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: design and display This year, Google gave the Pixel 9 a big design change from its predecessor, the Pixel 8. The Pixel 9 now features a redesigned frame with flattened edges instead of curved like on the Pixel 8. The corners are still rounded, however, but with the flat sides, and it should be easier to hold for some. But the biggest change is the revamped camera bar. Previously, the Pixel 8 had a straight camera bar that merged into the sides of the frame itself. With the Pixel 9, it has changed to a more elongated capsule-shaped module that ends before it reaches the sides of the phone. You still only get a dual-camera system with the Pixel 9, so the two lenses are housed in this new camera module along with an LED flash. Both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 8 have glossy backs and matte aluminum frames, along with an IP68 water and dust resistance rating. However, the Pixel 8 utilizes Corning Gorilla Glass, while the Pixel 9 has better durability thanks to Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. For colors, Google gave the Pixel 9 four choices: Peony, Wintergreen, Obsidian, and Porcelain. The Pixel 8 also came in four colors: Rose, Mint, Obsidian, and Porcelain. Those who were disappointed with the "pink" that was supposed to be Rose for the Pixel 8 will absolutely love the Peony Pixel 9 -- it's a much more vibrant shade of pink. There are also some differences between the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 as far as displays go. Google has bumped up the size of the display on the Pixel 9 to 6.3 inches from the Pixel 8's 6.2-inch screen due to thinner and more uniform bezels all around. The Pixel 9 still uses Google's Actua Display OLED panel, which has a refresh rate between 60Hz and 120Hz. There are some differences, though. While the Pixel 8 had a 1080 by 2400 resolution at a 428-pixels-per-inch (ppi) density and a 20:9 aspect ratio, the Pixel 9 has a 1080 by 2424 resolution at 422 ppi. The brightness on the Pixel 9 can also reach up to 1800 nits for HDR content and peak brightness at 2700 nits. This is an improvement over the Pixel 8's 1400 nits for HDR content and maximum of 2000 nits peak, though the aspect ratio remains unchanged. Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: cameras Though both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 have dual-camera systems, the Pixel 9 does have upgraded sensors compared to the Pixel 8. The Pixel 8 has a 50-megapixel main camera with f/1.7 aperture. You also get a 12MP ultrawide lens with f/2.2 and a 126-degree field of view (FOV). For the selfie camera, you have a 10.5MP shooter with f/2.2 aperture. Again, Google really upped the ante with the cameras this year. The Pixel 9 has a 50MP main camera with an f/1.68 aperture and an 82-degree FOV, while the ultrawide lens is 48MP with autofocus with an f/1.7 aperture and a 123-degree FOV. The selfie camera is also 10.5MP like before, but it now has autofocus, an f/2.2 aperture, and a 95-degree ultrawide FOV (which helps for those larger group selfies). If you've often used the ultrawide camera on your Pixel 8 and weren't too happy with the overall results, then the Pixel 9 could be worth an upgrade to. With a 48MP ultrawide lens, you should have better detail and colors with your ultrawide shots. We need time to put the Pixel 9's camera through its paces, but things are looking promising. Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: performance As one should expect every year, the Pixel 9 also outclasses its predecessor in performance, but in unexpected ways. The Pixel 8 uses Google's Tensor G3 chip and has a maximum RAM of 8GB. Storage options include 128GB or 256GB. When we reviewed the Pixel 8, we did not experience many issues with the G3's performance, as it was able to handle everyday tasks and light games just fine. This year, though, Google has given the entire Pixel 9 lineup some significant performance upgrades. For the Pixel 9 specifically, we have the Google Tensor G4 processor, as well as an impressive 12GB starting RAM (the Pro, Pro XL, and Pro Fold all have 16GB RAM, a first for any Pixel). Storage options remain the same at 128GB and 256GB. Google is bumping the RAM specification up to 12GB minimum because it is going all-in on AI this year. The Tensor G4 is also made with that in mind, as it should be much faster at processing everything and even more power efficient. Some of the AI tools that we are getting with the Pixel 9 series include Add Me, which lets you take two group photos (one with you in it) and merge the two images into a single composite so that no one is left out. Google is also adding a separate Pixel Screenshots app, which will keep your camera roll free of screenshots and be completely searchable as well. Google Gemini is also a big focus this year. Google is replacing the legacy Google Assistant with Gemini (though you can change that if you want), and Gemini will be integral to many things on your Pixel 9, including image generation. The Pixel 8 also has some AI tools, like Magic Eraser and Magic Editor, but it's not clear yet whether it will also be getting some of the newer AI tools that Google has planned. Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: software and updates When the Pixel 8 came out in 2023, it shipped with Android 14 out of the box. At the time, Google began its promise of seven years of major software upgrades, Feature Drops, and security patches. So, the Pixel 8 should last until Android 21 in 2030. This year, however, Google is doing something a little weird with the Pixel 9 series. Historically, the Pixel has always launched with the newest version of Android, and this year, that would be Android 15, which should be close to exiting the beta stages and into the final public release. However, the Pixel 9 will actually be launching with Android 14 out of the box, with the upgrade to Android 15 coming later. This is the first time that Google is launching the Pixel line with an old version of Android, so it complicates things a bit. Theoretically, it should last until Android 22 due to Google's seven-year guarantee of support, but with Android 14 being the default software version out of the box, we aren't completely sure just yet. We do know that it's seven years of software upgrades, Feature Drops, and security updates -- we just don't know whether that means Android 21 or Android 22 at this point, assuming that Google makes no changes to the timeline of Android versions in the future. Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: battery and charging The Pixel 8 has a 4,575mAh battery inside. From our original review, the Pixel 8 would potentially last a second day with moderate use but was more likely a one-day phone with heavier usage. The Pixel 8's charging time is quite average, with maximum wired charging speeds of around 27W. This means around 50% charge in 30 minutes, which is what we got in our use. There is also 18W wireless charging for the Pixel 8 and reverse wireless through Battery Share. For the Pixel 9, you have a 4,700mAh battery inside, which is a bit more than its predecessor due to the slight bump in physical size. Combined with the Tensor G4 chip, which we expect to be quite power efficient, we expect similar, if not better, battery life than the Pixel 8. Google claims that the Pixel 9 will have over 24 hours of battery life, and if you enable Extreme Battery Saver, that will jump up to 100 hours. However, charging speeds haven't really changed, as the Pixel 9 still has a maximum wired charging speed of 27W, or 55% in 30 minutes. For wireless charging, Google may have downgraded that slightly, as it should get 15W if you use the Google Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) or 12W with other Qi-certified wireless chargers. That's definitely an odd decision from Google, but it shouldn't be too much of a difference in the long run. Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: verdict Google definitely made some big changes to the Pixel 9 this year; that's a fact. However, if you're still using a Pixel 8, is it really worth upgrading? There are a few things to consider. For one, the new design looks sleeker, and the Peony color is what last year's Rose should have looked like. The slight increase in display size means you get a bit more content on the screen at once, and it also reaches higher brightness levels, which means it's easier to use outdoors in sunlight. The slight increase in size also means you get a better battery, and the Tensor G4 with 12GB RAM should mean incredible power and performance, as well as power efficiency. For cameras, Google increased the ultrawide lens to 48MP, which could potentially make a huge difference. I've demonstrated this in some camera comparisons with the OnePlus 12 and competing phones, as the OnePlus 12 also has a 48MP ultrawide lens. So, if you care about smartphone photography, especially with ultrawide shots, then the Pixel 9 could be worth upgrading to for that spec alone. Furthermore, whether you like it or not, AI is here to stay for the foreseeable future. The Pixel 9 has plenty of power inside to handle Google's multi-modality AI tools, and AI definitely comes in handy for features like Add Me and all of the Gemini features. If your Google Pixel 8 is running fine and you aren't in a rush to upgrade, you can absolutely keep it for another year and be just fine. But if the design, performance, and camera upgrades are catching your eye, the Pixel 9 may just be worth it -- especially if you can score a decent trade-in deal.

Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 9 Pro vs Pixel 9 Pro XL: Biggest differences explained

Google makes it a bit more complicated this time around when it comes to choosing which of its new Pixel phones to choose. Unlike last year that technically consisted of two models, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, this year's Made by Google event yielded three new models: the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. One could easily surmise where they rank based on the naming conventions, but there's more to it than just that. In addition to differing in size, design, and hardware, they also have their own share of AI features that add to the confusion. Google didn't exactly make it explicit as to what features are coming to what device, so we're going to simplify things to make it easier on you. Here's a quick summary on the most important details about the differences between the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL -- but I'll dig into more detail in the respective sections. I bet you can tell which devices are what solely by their size. Given the 'XL' in its name, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is the biggest and heaviest of the bunch at 6.4-inches long and weighing in at 7.8 ounces. Unless you have a penchant for larger phones, you might prefer the hand friendlier sizes of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro -- which are identical in size and weight. After playing around with all three phones, the other clear differences between their designs are their materials and finishes. The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have a matte glass rear back with a polished metal trim. In my Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro hands-on review, I call out how the flat edges of the new design make it look awfully similar to the iPhone 14 Pro. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 has a glossy glass casing with a satin metal frame -- the latter of which gives it the titanium alloy look of the iPhone 15 Pro. And, finally, the Pixel 9 has a smaller glass cutout with its rear cameras. The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro both feature a 6.3-inch screen, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL takes it up to 6.8 inches. Due to their respective resolutions, the Pixel 9 Pro turns out to be the most pixel dense screen at 495 ppi -- but it's honestly tough to tell by looking at all of them. Both 'Pro' models get an adaptive refresh rate of 1-120Hz, while the Pixel 9 has a narrower margin with its 60-120Hz refresh rate. I honestly again couldn't tell the difference when I loaded up the same 4K HDR clip on YouTube I use to test out their displays. However, the biggest difference will come down to how bright they get. Google rates the Pixel 9 with up to a peak brightness output of 2,700 nits, while the Pro models go higher up to 3,000 nits. Even as I watched those clips indoors, it was tough to tell if the Pro Pixels were brighter than the Pixel 9, but our testing will uncover which one gets the brightest. One thing I have to applaud Google for is how all three phones share the same 50MP main and 48MP ultrawide cameras. If you want the extra utility of zooming with an optical lens, the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL has you covered with their 48MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom. I'm more impressed that both Pixel 9 Pro phones actually get the same optical zoom range, mainly because the bigger phone usually gets the longer ranged telephoto shooter. Due to their 5x optical zoom cameras, the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL can get up to a 30x digital zoom -- whereas the Pixel 9 tops out at 8x. While all three Pixels now offer autofocusing with their front-facing cameras, the Pro models get the better 42MP camera with a wider 103-degree field of view. The Pixel 9 gets a 10.5MP one with a slightly narrower 95-degree field of view. For those who want finer controls to how photos are taken, Pro Controls are only available on the Pro models. There's a difference in how they record videos, too, with a more futureproof 8K video recording option with the Pro phones. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 dials it down to a still respectable 4K video recording at 24/30/60 FPS. At the same time, you'll find more video features with the Pro devices with features like Video Boost, Night Sight Video, and Super Res Zoom Video. This one's an easy comparison because the Tensor G4 powers all three phones, along being accompanied by the Titan M2 security coprocessor. RAM and storage sizes are the only meaningful differences here, as the Pixel 9 features 12GB and comes in either 128GB or 256GB capacities. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL come with 16GB of RAM and are available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage options. I was actually pleased by their level of responsiveness running apps and such, but I was astounded by how quickly they also handle AI features with little wait. I suspect that the increased RAM in the Pro models would allow them to better manage these AI features, resulting in shorter wait times -- but only time will tell after testing them out. The Pixel 9 Pro XL benefits from a 5,060 mAh battery that could effectively help it to last longer. Since last year's Pixel 8 Pro beat out the Pixel 9 running Tom's Guide's battery benchmark test, I'm inclined to say that the Pixel 9 Pro XL will top the list here. In contrast, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro feature the same 4,700 mAh batteries. I'm eager to see how these two stack up because of how closely related they are. Their charging speeds also differ by a wide gap, with the 9 Pro XL gaining the fastest speed with 37W wired charging -- while the other two top out at 27W. Wireless charging speeds also vary between the three: 15W, 21W, and 23W speeds for the 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL. However, those are assuming you're going to be using the 2nd Gen Pixel Stand. If not, you're looking at slower 12W wireless speeds using Qi wireless chargers. Even though Android 14's launching on all three devices, they're still getting the same outstanding 7 years of major Android software and security updates. What's even more remarkable is that Google's not making certain AI features exclusive to specific devices, as all three models gain all new Google Pixel 9 AI features introduced at the Made by Google Event -- Add Me, Pixel Studio, Reimagine, Call Notes, Pixel Weather app and Pixel Screenshots. The only difference in their features set relates to Gemini. You'll be able to tap into the Gemini app on all three devices, but only the Pro models will be able to access Gemini Advanced at no cost for the first year with the Google One AI Premium Plan. This will give the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL to the best Google AI features, as well as 2TB of cloud storage. And lastly, there's the price difference between them. You want to know that they're all technically more expensive than last year's lineup, especially when you consider how the Pixel 9 Pro XL is effectively the true successor to the Pixel 8 Pro with their similar sized screens. You'll need to spend $799 for the base model of the Pixel 9 with 128GB of storage. Next up, the Pixel 9 Pro takes up that typical flagship cost at $999 -- while the Pixel 9 Pro XL cranks it up to $1,099. For the $100 difference between the two Pro models, you're essentially paying for the larger screen, bigger battery and faster charging of the Pixel 9 Pro XL.

I went hands-on with every Google Pixel 9 model, and this is the one you should buy

The new Google Pixel 9 series has slimmer, flatter designs, improved camera hardware, and AI features that you may actually want to use. The Google Pixel was always destined to be the iPhone for Android users. This year, that belief feels stronger than ever, with the new Pixel 9 series coming in standard, Pro, and Pro XL flavors and prices starting at $799, $999, and $1,099, respectively. Also: Everything announced at Made by Google 2024 If the pricing model and configurations don't hint at an Apple-esque playbook, wait until you see and feel the phones in person. I spent an intimate morning with the latest devices ahead of today's Made by Google event, and the new design language -- which favors flattened edges, pastel colors, and ultra-thin bezels -- often reminded me of the iPhone 15 Pro that was tucked in my pocket. To be clear, that's a good thing, and I'm not alone in thinking that Google should build a phone that's more comfortable to hold, exudes premium, and looks less like Cyclops from X-Men. After testing the three Pixel 9 models, here's my quick take on each as you consider whether they're worth the upgrade. The vanilla Pixel 9 is not as flashy as its Pro siblings, but at $799 ($100 more than last year's Pixel 8), Google did give it significant upgrades across the board. Going down the list, the changes include a larger, brighter display that ramps up to 2,700 nits, a larger 4,700mAh battery, 12GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, an improved 48MP ultrawide sensor, and Google's new Tensor G4 chip. Also: The $799 Pixel 9 may be Google's sleeper hit this year. Here's why Those are all flagship-grade features, ones you'd typically find on a phone that costs hundreds of dollars more, but I'd bet that many customers will consider the Pixel 9 for one other reason: color options. I commend Google for being a little more ambitious with its industrial design this year, coating the flattened form factor with pastel hues that can be best described as refreshing. This may be the first time I ever considered picking up a pink-colored phone to use daily -- that's how good "Peony" looks in person. The Pixel 9 is also the same size as the Pixel 9 Pro, with a 6.3-inch display that makes it comfortable to hold and navigate one-handedly. It doesn't have the same LTPO panel as the Pro, meaning the refresh rate won't drop below 60Hz to reduce animation load and, therefore, reduce battery consumption, but the 4,700mAh capacity should keep the Pixel 9 running for a full day. Also: I'm a diehard Pixel user, but I'm considering a change for two reasons (and I'm not alone) Lastly, the 48MP ultrawide camera with autofocus feels like an upgrade that users won't appreciate until they use it. A sharper and larger sensor means that you can now pull in more color and detail when capturing scenic views, and there's also the benefit of better macro photos. Since the very first Pixel, Google has always released its smartphones in pairs: one in a regular, market-appropriate size and another that's a few point-inches larger. In fact, the original Pixel had an "XL" model, which the company later replaced with the "Pro" branding. That also meant that the smaller, non-Pro phone often missed out on flagship camera features, display upgrades, and other software benefits. Also: I went hands-on with Google's $1,799 Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and I'm ready to switch from Samsung This year, Google is combining the best of both worlds, offering a Pixel 9 Pro XL model that meets the needs of big-screen buffs while also keeping a smaller Pro variant that fields the same camera configuration and feature set. The latter is a major win for users who want flagship features without the often uncomfortable size. This also means there are now five Pixel phone models to choose from, including the budget-oriented Pixel 8a and bleeding-edge Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Besides size options, paying up for the Pixel 9 Pro also gets you 16GB of RAM (instead of 12GB on the Pixel 9), up to 1TB of storage, a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a more practical 42MP front-facing camera. From my demo, what impressed me the most with the front-facing camera wasn't the resolution and detail but how much of my surroundings it could frame. With a 103-degree field-of-view, the Pixel 9 Pro may just be the easiest phone to take group selfies and scenic portraits with. Also: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Four best features that make it the foldable phone to beat Other camera upgrades include the ability to process Super Res Zoom in video, which means better detail when capturing distant subjects, and Video Boost, which upscales content to 8K -- great for videographers or professionals who want to clip out high-res images. Google is bundling a year's worth of Google One AI Premium Plan with the Pixel 9 Pro models, which includes access to the latest Google AI features like Gemini Live and 2TB of cloud storage. Of course, how beneficial this is depends on how much you rely on Gemini to summarize, create, and interpret information. After demoing most, if not all, of the new software features coming to the Pixel, which include Add Me, Pixel Screenshots, Call Summary, and Gemini Live, there are certainly enough tools that make the Pixel 9 Pro worthy of your consideration for the AI alone.

6 Pixel 9 Pro Features I'm Looking Forward To

I Use This AirDrop-Like App to Transfer Files Between Devices Wirelessly Quick LinksA Compact Flagship 8K Video Recording With Video Boost 42MP Front Camera "Add Me" Lets You Fake Group Photos Pixel Screenshots Free Gemini Advanced Access for a Year Google's flagship Pixel phone for 2024, the Pixel 9 Pro, packs significant upgrades over its predecessor. This time, Google has focused on improving the basics to deliver a better user experience. Below is a roundup of the Pixel 9 Pro features I'm looking forward to the most. 1 A Compact Flagship There are hardly any compact-sized flagship Android phones on the market. While Samsung's Galaxy S24 packs flagship internals, its camera system is a notable downgrade from its Ultra sibling. The OnePlus 12 features impressive specs, but with a 6.82-inch display, it's not small by any means. This has also been the case with Google's Pixel lineup so far, with the Pro model packing a better camera system and a gigantic display. The Pixel 9 Pro changes that. You might think it's a direct successor to the Pixel 8 Pro from 2023, and while that's true, there is a big twist. Instead of sporting a big 6.7-inch display, the Pixel 9 Pro houses a 6.3-inch FHD+ 120Hz OLED display. And yet it packs the same internals and camera specs as its XL brother: a Tensor G4 chip, 16GB RAM, a 50MP primary camera, a 48MP 5x telephoto shooter, and more. This makes it one of the very few compact flagship Android phones with an impressive camera setup. If you don't like how big most flagship smartphones are but are not willing to compromise on the specs or camera performance, the Pixel 9 Pro should be your top pick. 2 8K Video Recording With Video Boost Taking a cue from its competition, Google has added 8K video recording to the Pixel 9 Pro and its XL sibling -- a first for the Pixel lineup. The phone can record 8K footage at up to 30FPS from its rear cameras. However, there's a catch: the feature is powered by Video Boost. So, your Pixel will upload the video to Google Photos for processing. You will have to wait a few hours to see the final result, though a low-resolution preview is available immediately after you record the video. Given how good Video Boost is on the Pixel 8 Pro, Google's approach should give 8K videos on the Pixel 9 Pro an edge in detail and overall quality over 8K footage recorded from other phones. 3 42MP Front Camera The best Android phones have amazing rear cameras, and the Pixel 9 Pro is no different. However, unlike its competition, Google has also focused on the selfie camera with its flagship Pixel for 2024. Instead of using a 12MP sensor like most of its competition, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 Pro (and the 9 Pro XL) with a 42MP selfie shooter. Even better, the bigger sensor is complemented by a wide 103-degree field of view and autofocus support. These improvements allow the Pixel 9 Pro to capture detailed selfies and groupfies better than its competition. The phone can take advantage of pixel binning to capture more details, which should be particularly noticeable in low-light scenarios. Like its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro can record 4K videos at 60FPS from the front camera for better clarity. Add in Google's excellent image processing, and the Pixel 9 Pro should be among your first picks if you take a lot of photos. 4 "Add Me" Lets You Fake Group Photos A new Pixel phone is incomplete without new AI-powered features from Google. The Pixel 9 packs several Gemini and Circle to Search-focused improvements. On top of all that, it also sports a handy new AI-powered camera feature: Add Me. Releasing as a preview on the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, the feature allows you to add yourself to a picture. Take one group picture, then ask someone from the group to take another picture and swap your position with them. Add Me will merge the two photos to make it appear like a single group phoro. Another new AI-powered feature on the Pixel 9 is Reimagine, which allows you to seamlessly modify your photo using text inputs. All you need to do is tap the part of the image you want to modify, enter what you want to see, and wait for the magic to happen. For example, Google says you can use Reimagine to make the grass greener, add fall leaves to a picture, etc. 5 Pixel Screenshots Remember Microsoft's controversial Recall feature, which was eventually pulled due to privacy concerns? Google is debuting a similar feature on the Pixel 9, dubbed Pixel Screenshots. Your phone will automatically analyze a screenshot's content to remember information like events, locations, numbers, etc. Even better, Google says you can search in a conversational way to recall any content from a screenshot. The best part about Pixel Screenshots is that the entire processing happens on-device. So, there's no privacy risk involved with Google or third-party snooping through your screenshots. 6 Free Gemini Advanced Access for a Year Google is bundling a free year of Google One AI Premium plan for a year. It comes with the following perks: 2TB of storage Gemini Advanced Gemini integration in Gmail and other Google services Longer group video calls and higher resolution support in Google Meet Enhanced appointment scheduling in Google Calendar 10% cash back on purchases from the Google Store Priority support Besides the additional storage, you can enjoy access to Gemini Advanced, the most powerful version of Google's AI chatbot. Additionally, you can use Gemini inside Gmail, Drive, and Docs to draft emails, summarize long emails and PDFs, and more. The Google One AI Premium plan costs $20 per month. With the Pixel 9 Pro (and the XL), you get access to this tier for free for a year. That's $240 in savings. To a certain extent, this helps in justifying the phone's $999 price tag. The only catch is that this offer is only available for new subscribers. So, if you already pay for Google One AI Premium, you won't be eligible for a free subscription. The Pixel 9 Pro is expensive, starting at $999 before taxes. But it's unique in many ways, thanks to flagship specs and a high-end camera system in a compact body. Plus, it's hard to beat Google's AI features and the clean, stock Android experience.

The Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro pack a gorgeous new look and lots of AI tricks | CNN Underscored

The Google Pixel series has consistently ranked among the best smartphones we've tested, but they've been a bit samey over the past few generations. That all changes with this year's Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro -- and we're not just talking about those snazzy new designs. Sporting a freshly overhauled look (complete with a new XL size) and packed full of AI features, 2024's range of Pixel phones are looking like some of Google's best yet. Wondering if you should hit the preorder button? Here's what we think after a few hours of early hands-on time ahead of the Pixel 9's Aug. 22 release date. Google Pixel 9 Google The Google Pixel 9 sports a stunning new design, a versatile camera and tons of AI tricks for help with everything from editing photos to finding the perfect recipe. Both Amazon and Best Buy are offering up to $200 in gift card credit with preorders. From $799 at Amazon From $799 at Best Buy From $799 at Google Google Pixel 9 Pro Google The Pixel 9 Pro packs all the perks of the Pixel 9 while tacking on a more advanced camera setup and a much-welcomed XL option for big-phone fans. Like with the standard Pixel 9, you can score a free gift card if you preorder at Amazon and Best Buy. From $999 at Amazon From $999 at Best Buy From $999 at Google A slicker design with a long-awaited XL option Mike Andronico/CNN Underscored The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro mark the most significant redesign we've seen for Google's flagship phones in years, with an all-new look that makes them feel like true premium contenders rather than the cooler, cheaper cousins of the smartphone world. I was immediately drawn to the phones' curvy new camera bump, which, while still massive, is a lot more attractive than the thick camera bar that engulfed the back of the last few Pixel phones. Both new phones sport glass backs and flat edges that are more than reminiscent of recent iPhones, with the Pixel 9 sporting a glossy rear panel and matte edges, and the Pixel 9 Pro rocking the opposite. Both phones looked and felt great, but I was much more partial to the 9 Pro and its matte frame; the regular Pixel 9 was quick to pick up fingerprints, even in my short demo time. Google typically crushes it with its color selections, and this year is no different. The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro both come in Obsidian and Porcelain (Google's black and white) as well as different variations of pink and green on each phone. While the Peony and Wintergreen Pixel 9 models have a much brighter pop than their Rose Quartz and Hazel Pixel 9 Pro counterparts, I'm still happy to see a nice range of colors for both the standard and Pro models, especially since Apple tends to save its most fun hues for the former. Mike Andronico/CNN Underscored Regardless of what color Pixel 9 Pro you go for, you'll finally have the opportunity to supersize it. The Pixel 9 Pro XL joins the lineup this year with a nice big 6.8-inch Super Actua (i.e. super-bright) OLED display, perfect for folks who need more space for scrolling TikTok and binging movies than what the 9 Pro's 6.3-inch screen provides. The larger Pixel still felt plenty comfortable to hold in my brief hands-on time, and Google's typically great OLED displays gave a nice pop to the yellow and red spandex of the "Deadpool & Wolverine" trailer. This is the first time there's been an XL Pixel phone since 2019's Pixel 4, and it gives Google an answer to rivals like the Galaxy S24+ (6.7 inches), Galaxy S24 Ultra (6.8 inches) and iPhone 15 Pro (6.7 inches). And while sibling phones like the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max vary a bit when it comes to storage options and camera capabilities, the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro XL promise to offer the same exact feature set regardless of your size preference. The most AI-packed Google Pixel yet Mike Andronico/CNN Underscored You can't release a tech product in 2024 without filling it to the brim with AI features, but Google's been playing this game for years. As such, many of the Pixel 9 Pro's artificial intelligence capabilities offer potentially useful and fun evolutions on what we've seen in the past while introducing some interesting -- and eerily futuristic -- ways to get help from Google's virtual assistant. Pretty much every device out there has access to Google Gemini (the company's chatbot that can do everything from offer recipe ideas to generate entire images for you), but Pixel 9 series owners get exclusive access to Gemini Live. As its name suggests, this tool lets you have natural, real-time conversations with Gemini instead of simply typing a prompt and getting an answer. Google It was pretty wild to witness in action. A Google rep asked Gemini for some healthy breakfast ideas, which led to an eerily organic back-and-forth in which the assistant was able to field follow-up questions and even pivot when the speaker interrupted it. While I was a bit unsettled by how human Gemini Live's voice sounded (you'll have 10 different voices to choose from), this does seem like a potentially time-saving feature that could save you from having to type or speak a bunch of different prompts to get you what you need. I'm not the biggest fan of generative AI imagery, but Google's Pixel Studio looks like one of the most capable takes on this kind of tool I've seen. I asked it to show me a French bulldog playing basketball in New York City, and within seconds, it spat out an image that could easily have been mistaken for a real photo at first glance. Impressively, the app was just as quick to make new variations on this prompt, pumping out anime, 8-bit and vintage-looking versions of this hypothetical baller dog in the blink of an eye. What sets Pixel Studio apart from other AI image makers is the amount of editing you can do after the fact, whether it's applying text for the perfect meme or turning part of your photo into a sticker that you can easily share with friends. I'll still take hand-drawn art over this stuff any day (to Google's credit, any AI-generated or AI-edited photos will be properly marked as such), but Pixel Studio seems like a decent enough way to send silly images to friends, and is a nice showpiece for just how capable the Pixel 9's Tensor G4 processor is. Promising cameras with some wild (and potentially divisive) smarts Mike Andronico/CNN Underscored The camera hardware on these phones is promising on paper -- the Pixel 9 packs a 50-megapixel wide camera with a 48-megapixel ultrawide shooter, while the Pixel 9 Pro adds a 48-megapixel telephoto lens on top of that for up to 30x zoom. The Pro phone also promises Google's best selfie camera ever, with a whopping 42-megapixel lens up front that took some sharp self-portraits of my big bald head during my demo time. But as always, it's Google's bevy of AI-powered software tricks that really bring its photos to life -- and in some cases, change them into something else entirely. Have you ever wanted to take a photo with a friend but didn't want to settle for a selfie or ask a stranger for help taking it? The new Add Me feature aims to solve that problem by creating a composite of multiple photos that look like a legitimate group shot. It's pretty straightforward: One person takes a photo of the other, and then they switch places. The second photographer then sees an augmented reality overlay of where their pal stood, so that they can frame the shot as naturally as possible (the camera app also guides you, so getting the right angle is pretty easy). The results were wild. I took separate photos with two different Google reps that Add Me turned into a single shot of the three of us, and the resulting image looked like we were all legitimately all in the same place at once. I'm not sold on the usefulness of this feature. It certainly takes longer than just asking someone to take a photo for you, and there's something eerie to me about a group photo that never truly was. Still, the tech is incredibly impressive, and if you and your pals find yourself alone in the wilderness or just really hate talking to strangers (which, fair), it could come in handy. Google's Magic Editor has been around for a while to help you delete or modify objects in a photo, but now it lets you turn them on their heads with the new Reimagine tool. During my demo time, I watched a Google rep highlight a stretch of highway and turn it into a river, and later was able to do the inverse by turning the waters of Chelsea Piers into a road. It was an amusing enough distraction, though like with a lot of these things, I'm personally not sure how much time I'd spend playing around with it. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 look like a perfect Pixel 9 pairing Mike Andronico/CNN Underscored Joining the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Pixel Watch 3 will be the all-new Pixel Buds Pro 2, which promise to bring some notable upgrades to Google's high-end earbuds. Their shaved-down size and a new twist-to-adjust mechanism should make them even more comfortable than the OG Pixel Buds Pro, and with a Tensor A1 chip packed inside, you can expect better noise cancellation and calling (the latter of which we found lacking on the older model). The Buds Pro 2's no-nonsense design hasn't changed a ton from the previous generation, but they looked nice in person, especially since there's a color to match pretty much every Pixel 9 phone and Pixel Watch 3 strap. As with the rest of Google's new lineup, we're eager to take these buds through our day-to-day to see how they stack up to the likes of the AirPods Pro 2 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. The takeaway Max Buondonno/CNN Underscored After years of great but predictable phones from Google, the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro look like a much-needed shakeup that could have a decent chance of swaying the iPhone and Galaxy loyalists of the world. Their new designs are the best we've ever seen on a Pixel, complete with the return of an XL option for folks who like their phones big and beautiful. Couple that with some gorgeous OLED displays, a fast Tensor G4 chip and promising cameras with lots of AI tricks, and you have what could be some serious contenders for the best smartphone crown -- and ones that arrive just ahead of next month's new iPhones. We can't wait to put the Pixel 9 range through its full paces to see if it lives up to that title, so stay tuned for more.

Google introduces Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold

Google has unveiled its Pixel 9 lineup, expanding the series to include the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. The new models cater to varying preferences, with options for both compact and large displays. This expansion responds to customer demand for diverse sizes and the increasing competition in AI technology. The Pixel 9 series introduces two versions of the Pixel 9 Pro -- a standard size and an XL model with a larger display and extended battery life. A foldable variant, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, continues the foldable trend initiated with last year's Pixel Fold. AI integration is a significant focus in this lineup. Google's Gemini chatbot is embedded across all models, with the Pro versions offering access to advanced features. These AI capabilities enhance the camera experience, building on Google's existing strengths in mobile photography. Pricing for the Pixel 9 starts at $799 for the 128GB model, aligning it with competitors like the iPhone 15 and Galaxy S24. The Pixel 9 Pro is priced at $999, while the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL costs $1,099. Storage options vary, with the Pro models offering up to 1TB. Preorders are now open, with the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL set to release on August 22, followed by the Pixel 9 Pro on September 4. The Pixel 9 models feature similar dimensions, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL being slightly larger and heavier. Specification Pixel 9 Pixel 9 Pro Pixel 9 Pro XL Display 6.3-inch Display 6.3-inch Display (LTPO) 6.8-inch Display (LTPO) Resolution 2424 x 1080 OLED, 422 ppi 2856 x 1280 LTPO-OLED, 495 ppi 2992 x 1344 LTPO-OLED, 486 ppi Refresh Rate 60-120 Hz 1-120 Hz 1-120 Hz Brightness Up to 2,700 cd/m² (peak) Up to 3,000 cd/m² (peak) Up to 3,000 cd/m² (peak) Dimensions 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm Weight 198 g 199 g 221 g Battery 4,700 mAh 4,700 mAh 5,060 mAh RAM 12 GB 16 GB 16 GB Memory 128GB / 256GB 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB Processor Google Tensor G4 Google Tensor G4 Google Tensor G4 Main Camera 50 MP 50 MP 50 MP Ultra Wide Camera 48 MP 48 MP 48 MP Telephoto Lens 48 MP, 5x optical zoom 48 MP, 5x optical zoom Front Camera 10.5 MP 42 MP 42 MP Max. Zoom 8x Super-Res Zoom 30x Super-Res Zoom 30x Super-Res Zoom Operating System Android 14 Android 14 Android 14 Water/Dust Protection IP68 IP68 IP68 Design changes include a redesigned horizontal camera bar that now features rounded edges. The Pixel 9 Pro models use high-end materials, including matte glass backs and polished metal sides, emphasizing durability and sustainability with recycled materials. All three models are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance. The Pro models, despite different screen sizes, share most features, including a Super Actua display with thinner bezels and peak brightness of 3,000 nits. The Pixel 9's 6.3-inch display offers up to 2,700 nits of brightness. The Pro models support variable refresh rates from 1Hz to 120Hz, while the Pixel 9 ranges from 60Hz to 120Hz. Camera hardware sees moderate updates, with all models featuring a 50MP main camera and a new 48MP ultrawide lens with Macro Focus. The Pro models include a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, supported by Super Res Zoom up to 30x. A significant upgrade in the Pro models is the front camera, now a 42MP sensor with autofocus, while the standard Pixel 9 retains a 10.5MP sensor with added autofocus. The Pixel 9 series leverages AI to enhance the camera experience with features like Add Me, which allows users to add themselves to group photos. Other features include an upgraded Night Sight, Auto Frame Mode, and enhancements to existing tools like Magic Editor and Best Take. The Tensor G4 chipset powers the Pixel 9 series, supporting AI features beyond photography. Gemini Live offers chatbot integration for various tasks, and Pixel 9 Pro users receive a one-year subscription to Gemini Advanced with 2TB of storage. New AI features include the ability to search screenshot content and a Pixel Studio tool for image creation. A Call Notes feature transcribes and summarizes phone calls, with privacy measures in place to inform the other party. The Pixel 9 series promises seven years of software and security updates, ensuring long-term support. The phones will launch with Android 14, with future updates anticipated. Performance details on the Tensor G4 remain limited, but the Pixel 9 series now includes more RAM -- 12GB in the Pixel 9 and 16GB in the Pro models -- to support the expanded AI functions. Satellite connectivity for emergency messaging is a new addition, allowing users to share their location without cellular or Wi-Fi. This service will be free for two years, with plans to expand coverage internationally. Battery capacities have increased, with the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro featuring 4,700 mAh batteries and the Pixel 9 Pro XL offering a 5,060 mAh battery. All models support 45W charging, with fast charging capabilities and wireless charging speeds varying by model. Below is a table where you can compare with Pixel 8 as well. Google Pixel 8 Pixel 8 Pro Pixel 9 Pixel 9 Pro Pixel 9 Pro XL Screen 6.2 6.7 6.3 6.3 6.8 Resolution in pixels 2400x1080 2992x1344 2424x1080 2856x1280 2992x1344 Maximum brightness 2000 cd/m2 2400 cd/m2 2700 cd/m2 3000 cd/m2 3000 cd/m2 Dimensions 150x70.8x8.5mm 162x76.5x8.8mm 152x72x8.5mm 152x72x8.5mm 162x76.6x8.5mm Weight 188g 213g 198g 199g 220g Soc Tensor G3 Tensor G3 Tensor G4 Tensor G4 Tensor G4 Ram 8GB 12GB 12GB 16GB 16GB Main camera 50Mp, 1/1.31", f/1.68 50Mp, 1/1.31", f/1.68 50Mp, 1/1.31", f/1.68 50Mp, 1/1.31", f/1.68 50Mp, 1/1.31", f/1.68 Ultrawide 12Mp, 1/2.51", f/2.2 48Mp, 1/2", f/1.95 48Mp, 1/2.55", f/1.7 48Mp, 1/2.55", f/1.7 48Mp, 1/2.55", f/1.7 Telephoto camera No camera 48Mp, f/2.8 No camera 48Mp, 1/2.55", f/2.8 48Mp, 1/2.55", f/2.8 Selfie camera 10.5Mp, f/2.2, 95° 10.5Mp, f/2.2, 95° 10.5Mp, f/2.2, 95° 42Mp, f/2.2, 103° 42Mp, f/2.2, 103° Fingerprint scanner Optical Optical Ultrasonic Ultrasonic Ultrasonic Battery 4485mAh 5050mAh 4700mAh 4700mAh 5060mAh Storage 128GB, 256GB UFS 3.1 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB UFS 3.1 128GB, 256GB UFS 3.1 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB UFS 3.1 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB UFS 3.1 Suggested retail price 800 euros 1100 euros 900 euros 1100 euros 1200 euros

I went hands-on with Google's $1,799 Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and I'm ready to switch from Samsung

The successor to one of last year's best foldable phones is lighter, brighter, still expensive, and full of potential. Last year's Pixel Fold was a valiant first attempt at a foldable phone by Google, but it wasn't perfect. Compared to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and the OnePlus Open, the Pixel Fold was shorter and wider, which made it a more comfortable phone-to-tablet experience. That said, it was also much heavier than the competition, which took away from the illusion of it being a compact device. It had the appearance of a passport, but it felt like a bible in your hand. Also: Everything announced at Made by Google 2024 This year's Pixel 9 Pro Fold fixes the ergonomic issues of the original, and then some. In doing so, Google has also shifted from the boxier, more traditional aspect ratio to a 20:9 scale that's similar to the OnePlus Open. I personally know some Pixel Fold users who will be disappointed by the change, but based on my hands-on time with the newest model, I think it's for the better. Tack on a larger, brighter display (up to 2,700 nits at peak brightness), 16GB of RAM, the company's latest Tensor G4 chip, and a host of AI features because that's a requirement for any piece of tech in 2024, and you have a contender for best foldable phone this year. Notice that I said "the best foldable phone" and not "best phone overall." That's because I'm still struggling to recommend foldable phones, with their hefty price tags, over the more traditional iPhones, Samsung Galaxies, and even Google Pixels. The good news is that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold -- with all of its user-benefitting upgrades this year -- doesn't get a price bump like the rest of the Pixel 9 series. The bad news is that, that's because it's priced the same as its predecessor: starting at $1,799. It's still expensive. It's still inaccessible. If you're considering the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, trade-in offers, carrier promotions, and holiday discounts are your best friend. Also: I'm a diehard Pixel user, but I'm considering a change for two reasons (and I'm not alone) Pricing aside, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is looking to be one of the best multitasking and entertainment devices you can buy today. It helps that the internal display now spans a whopping eight inches, making it the largest phone on the market. When I tried it, running split screen mode and watching YouTube videos on the Super Actua Flex display was straight eye candy, except for the times when the wall-sized windows at the venue exposed just how glossy and glare-exhibiting these flexible screens are. I'm sure last year's Pixel Fold would've held up worse in the same environment, as the measly up to 1,450 nits made the phone almost unusable when outdoors. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold gets much, much brighter, and that's something every user can appreciate. Also: I went hands-on with Google Pixel Watch 3: These three best features make a difference The larger screen also plays well with Google's latest AI features, which include the Pixel Studio image generator, Gemini Live, and Pixel Screenshots. All three are available on the smaller, less expensive Pixel 9 models, too, but having a larger canvas to doodle, prompt, and interact with Google's AI features feels like the best approach. You can even run split screen mode with Google's Gemini chatbot and drag-and-drop files for a more collaborative experience. Google says the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is "the thinnest foldable you can buy," which is true if you're not in a market that includes the likes of Xiaomi and Honor. When unfolded, the phone is about the same thickness as the iPhone 15 Pro, and I had no problem holding it up when taking the photos you see throughout this article. Pair the thinness with an IPX8 rating (meaning the phone is water-resistant), Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and a new hinge design that I'm told is tighter and better prevents internal components from coming loose, and you have a foldable phone that should be as safe to carry around as a regular handset. Also: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Four best features that make it the foldable phone to beat Google had a big opportunity to leapfrog its foldable counterparts in camera performance, but the Pixel 9 Pro Fold doesn't come off as competitive. It fields a similar 48MP main, 10.5MP ultrawide, and 10.8MP telephoto camera array as its predecessor, leaning heavily on the new Tensor G4 chip -- and however much backend processing it brings -- to carry the photo-taking experience. Compared to the larger, more competent sensors on the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL, this feels like a disservice to users committing at least $1,799 for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Of course, I'll have to test the phone for longer and in more conditions to see just how significant (or insignificant) this hardware difference is. Based on tech specs alone, however, I'm not expecting Google's most expensive phone to have the company's best camera output. The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is available for preorder today in two colors: Porcelain and Obsidian, starting at $1,799 for 256GB of storage.

Hands on With the Google Pixel 9 Series, 9 Pro Fold, Watch 3, and Buds Pro 2

Quick LinksGoogle Pixel 9: Polished and Premium Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Night and Day Improvements Google Pixel Watch 3: There's Finally a Larger Size Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: Improved Design and Sound? Instead of waiting for October, Google took to its Silicon Valley HQ to unveil its latest generation of products at today's Made By Google event. Instead of relying on AI and software features to be the star of the show, Google made serious improvements to its Pixel 9 lineup, with much-needed upgrades to the Watch 3 and Buds Pro 3. I got an early hands-on with everything announced, so here are my first impressions. Google Pixel 9: Polished and Premium The camera bar on the back of Pixel smartphones (since the Pixel 6) is incredibly distinctive and sets Google's phone apart from the Samsungs and iPhones of the world. This year, the company is refining that design. Instead of the camera bump spanning the entire width of the handset, the bar is an island protruding from the back. Like the metal frame, the edges of the camera bump are flat and solid. This premium-feeling design is bold and something we've seen on the iPhone 15 Pro and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. Combined with the slight heft of the phone, the Pixel 9 series actually feels like a flagship-level smartphone. This year, there are three Pixel 9 models: the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro have 6.3-inch displays (though the Pro includes a higher resolution) and 4,070mAh batteries, while the XL has a 6.8-inch screen and a 5,060mAh battery. The two Pro models are identical in almost every way, with the only differences being a larger screen and battery on the XL variant. Under the hood, all three devices are powered by the new Tensor G4 SoC, start with 128GB of non-expandable storage, and are IP68 dust and water-resistant. Upgrading to one of the Pro phones gets you 16GB of RAM (up from 12GB), a brighter display, and a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate. Unfortunately, none of these devices include Qi2 wireless charging. Close Most of the cameras are shared across the entire Pixel 9 family. Around back, all three feature a 50MP wide camera and a 48MP ultrawide. The Pros also include a 48MP telephoto. The selfie shooter on the standard Pixel 9 does get a significantly different 10.5MP sensor versus the 42MP camera on the Pros. Additionally, you'll have to spend a bit more money for the Pro model if you want "Pro" (manual) camera controls and AI video boost. I will note that these phones are extremely slippery. The standard Pixel 9 has a satin frame and polished back glass, while the Pro phones have a polished frame and soft-touch, matte glass. I'm not a huge proponent of sticking phones in cases, but you might want to consider picking one up so your phone doesn't slip out of your hand and onto the floor. Close It wouldn't be a Google event if the company didn't announce a bunch of new Gemini features and apps incorporating the large language model. To list only a few, we now have new Pixel Weather and Pixel Screenshots apps, which summarize the weather and help you group and find information in your stack of screenshots. There's also Gemini Live, which lets you talk to the assistant and get conversation-like responses; the Pixel Studio app, where you can generate images; Reimagine in Magic Editor, so you can swap out backgrounds in your photos and add items; Add Me, which can be used to add additional people to photos; Call Notes, allowing Gemini to summarize your phone conversations; and more. Related Gemini on Android Gets Live Chat and Overlay Assistant Updates The Gemini app can now interact with other Android apps. I only had a few minutes to play with these AI features, so I won't confidently say how great any of these work or if they're more than gimmicks. But I will note that everything appeared to work as expected, and I'm excited to see if I will find use for them during my testing of these phones. All three phones can be pre-ordered starting today and will begin shipping on August 22, 2024. The Pixel 9, available in Peony, Wintergreen, Porcelain, and Obsidian, starts at $799, while the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL will set you back $999 and $1,099, respectively. These models can be purchased in Porcelain, Rose Quartz, Hazel, or Obsidian. Google Pixel 9 The Google Pixel 9 features a sleek design with a powerful Tensor G4 processor, 12 GB of RAM, and a vibrant 6.3-inch Actua display, making it ideal for capturing stunning photos and videos with its advanced 50 MP main lens and 48 MP ultrawide camera. With improved durability and a fast-charging all-day battery, the Pixel 9 is built to handle daily challenges while delivering top-notch performance and AI-driven capabilities. See at Google Store$799 at AmazonSee at Best BuySee at VerizonSee at AT&TSee at T-Mobile Google Pixel 9 Pro The Google Pixel 9 Pro features a sophisticated design, a powerful Tensor G4 processor, and 16 GB of RAM, making it ideal for advanced AI applications, stunning photos, and videos. It includes a pro triple rear camera system, a 42 MP front camera, and the brightest Super Actua display, offering an immersive experience in two sizes. Pricing starts at $999. See at Google Store$1099 at AmazonSee at Best BuySee at VerizonSee at AT&TSee at T-Mobile Google Pixel 9 Pro XL The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL offers an expansive 6.8-inch Super Actua display, combined with the powerful Tensor G4 processor and 16 GB of RAM for top-tier AI performance and advanced photography. It features Google's most advanced camera system, including a pro triple rear camera and a 42 MP front camera, all within a sleek design starting at $1,099. See at Google Store$1099 at AmazonSee at Best BuySee at VerizonSee at AT&TSee at T-Mobile Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Night and Day Improvements Google released its first foldable, the Pixel Fold, between processor cycles and just before the launch of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. The phone had a popular aspect ratio, feeling more like a phone when closed while retaining a huge 7.6-inch tablet-like inside display. However, the SoC ran hot and throttled performance, the hinge felt very first-generation, and the phone was thick and heavy compared to the competition. Thankfully, Google has vastly improved the Pixel 9 Pro Fold (don't ask me why they changed the naming scheme). The new foldable includes a 6.3-inch cover display (the same one found on the Pixel 9), making it feel like a slab-style phone while closed (and when placed in a pocket). It is also only 0.4 inches thick when folded, making it only slightly thicker than other flagship smartphones. What's even more fantastic is that the squared-off edges and the improved, snappy hinge are huge improvements. The phone feels premium without weighing a ton, and the inside screen actually unfolds flat. The aspect ratio changed slightly, going from 17.4:9 to 20:9, but the 8-inch foldable display felt great for multi-tasking, reading articles, and watching videos. Close There are two things to note about the redesign. First, the camera bump doesn't distinctively look like the rest of the Pixel 9 lineup. It's more of a square island stuck to one side instead of a bar that spans the back of the phone. It's not my favorite, especially since the phone will likely rock when placed down on a table. The second is that there's still a crease down the center of the inside display. Like other foldables, this is pretty noticeable when off-axis but appears to hide well in use. Long-term testing is needed to see if the crease ends up looking bad. The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is available in Porcelain and Obsidian colors and can be pre-ordered starting today for $1,799. Devices should begin shipping on September 4, 2024. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a cutting-edge foldable smartphone featuring an 8-inch Super Actua Flex inner display that supports multitasking and immersive entertainment. It is powered by the Tensor G4 processor, offers 16 GB of RAM, and comes with advanced AI capabilities, making it a powerful and efficient device for creativity and productivity. See at Google Store$1799 at AmazonSee at Best BuySee at VerizonSee at T-Mobile Google Pixel Watch 3: There's Finally a Larger Size The Pixel Watch's greatest weakness was that it only came in one size: 41mm. Although watchbands were available for all wrist sizes, the smaller display looked laughably minuscule on wrists like mine that comfortably fit an Apple Watch Ultra. This year, with the launch of the Pixel Watch 3, Google is giving us 41mm and 45mm options to choose from. With the launch of the second size, Google kept the same overall design but decreased the bezel by 16%. The company also included a custom AMOLED LTPO display that reaches 2,000 nits of peak brightness. Even in the 45mm size, the Watch 3 felt familiar on my wrist, meaning it felt comfortable, and the screen was easy to navigate. Google is using a new dual-chip architecture that should improve performance without sacrificing battery life. That said, the Pixel Watch 3 is only rated for 24 hours with the always-on display turned on, but you should be able to get 36 hours with battery saver mode enabled. Close The health sensors on the Pixel Watch 3 don't appear to have changed, but Google is improving its software experience. AI (reserved for Fitbit Premium subscribers) will help you improve your routines by automatically providing customized running exercises and data. But don't worry if you don't want another $10/month subscription; Google is removing most of the wearable's metrics from behind the Fitbit Premium paywall. You can manually create similar routines, plus you'll get improved heart rate tracking while running. A readiness score that summarizes your sleep, resting heart rate, and heart rate variability will help tell you when to rest and when to push yourself. Google also teased an upcoming Loss of Pulse Detection feature that can automatically contact emergency services if the watch detects that your heart has stopped beating. This feature's rollout is slated for September in several European countries. Presumably, it will come to the U.S. once Google has FDA approval. The Google Pixel Watch 3 costs $349.99 for the 41mm Bluetooth model and $399.99 for the 45mm. The price goes up $100 for both if you choose to buy the 4G LTE option. There are also several color differences. The 41mm is available in Polished Silver, Champagne Gold, and Matte Black. The 45mm comes in Polished Silver, Matte Black, and Matte Hazel. Pre-orders should ship by September 10, 2024. Google Pixel Watch 3 The Google Pixel Watch 3 is a performance-focused smartwatch featuring a larger, brighter Actua display available in two sizes, designed to enhance fitness tracking and daily productivity. It offers advanced running capabilities, readiness and cardio load tracking, and deep integration with Google's ecosystem, all while delivering up to 36 hours of battery life with Battery Saver mode. See at Google Store$400 at AmazonSee at Best BuySee at VerizonSee at AT&TSee at T-Mobile Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: Improved Design and Sound? Google's first-generation "pro" earbuds were released in 2022 and offered excellent sound quality. Unfortunately, they didn't really stand out in a world where AirPods and Galaxy earbuds exist. Enter the Pixel Buds Pro 2. At first glance -- especially just looking at the earbuds in their charging case -- it's basically impossible to distinguish these from their predecessors. But take them out, and you'll find a smaller build and wingtips. These rubber pieces are supposed to help secure the earbuds in place while exercising, but if you're looking for a more relaxed feel, you can twist the buds up slightly so there isn't such a tight fit. Close The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the first to launch with a custom Tensor processor from Google. The A1 allows these to be mini Gemini AI earbuds. When paired to a newer Pixel smartphone or tablet, you can activate Gemini Live and converse with your assistant. There's also AI-powered Conversation Detection, which enables Transparency mode when you start talking and then switches back to ANC when you're done. Other features Google promises include 8 hours of battery life with ANC enabled, 30 hours in combination with the battery case, and two times better ANC with Silent Seal 2.0. I didn't get a chance to wear and test the Pixel Buds Pro 2, so I'll have to hold off on critiquing their fit and audio quality. Be sure to check back for How-To Geek's full review. The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 cost $229 and begin shipping on September 26, 2024. They're available in Porcelain, Hazel, Wintergreen, and Peony. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are designed for maximum comfort and a secure fit, featuring the new Tensor A1 chip for advanced audio processing and enhanced battery life. They offer Silent Seal 2.0 for superior noise cancelation, improved Clear Calling, and seamless integration with other Pixel devices, making them the best earbuds for Pixel users. See at Google Store$229 at AmazonSee at Best BuySee at Verizon

Top 10 features of the new Google Pixel 9 series: Gemini AI, Tensor G4, camera features, SOS

Google has launched the new Pixel 9 series of smartphones at the Made by Google event in Mountain View, California. The new devices will be available from August 22, with the pricing starting at ₹74,999 for the 128GB standard model. The series includes 4 phones including the Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Let's look at the top 10 features of the new Google Pixel 9 series. Gemini Live allows you to have a free-flowing conversation with Gemini. For example, you can get help brainstorming gift ideas, thinking through household repairs, and so on, with the AI responding in a more intuitive, natural way. Gemini Live which will be available to all Gemini Advanced subscribers, and all Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold owners will get a year of Gemini Advanced with their purchase. Pixel Studio is an image generator that is powered by combining an on-device diffusion model running on Tensor G4 and Google's Imagen 3 text-to-image model in the cloud. Its UI is optimized for easy prompting, style changes and editing. Pixel Screenshots, which is an exclusive app for Pixel 9, helps you to save, organize and recall important information present in screenshots that you want to remember for later. For example, if a friend who loves squirrels has a birthday coming up, you may have browsed for a gift, screenshotting squirrel shirts, squirrel coasters and everything else squirrel-related. Pixel Screenshots will analyze the content of all the screenshots and make the information searchable in the app, with all you having to do is open the app and search for "squirrel," and having the results pop up. You can also include links as to where you found everything and a summary of what you're looking at with relevant information. AI has been used to get a more helpful experience for checking the weather. The Pixel Weather app is designed to deliver accurate weather forecasts, and Gemini Nano can generate a custom AI weather report for you. The camera gets new AI features as follows: Add Me is for including the photographer who's often left out of the group, gets added in the picture, without the need for tripods or asking strangers to take pictures. Google has rebuilt Panorama to give detailed shots even in low light. The company claims it's the highest-quality low-light panorama on any smartphone. Magic Editor in Google Photos has new editing capabilities. Auto frame lets you reframe a photo for better composition, and you can reimagine your photos by simply typing what you want to see. For example, adding wildflowers to an open field. Available on all Pro phones, video boost helps in processing Night Sight Videos twice as fast once they are uploaded. For Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, you can use the 48MP 5x telephoto to record high-resolution zoom videos all the way to 20x with Super Res Zoom Video. Clear Calling has further improved audio quality, and the new Call Notes feature sends you a private summary and full transcript of your phone call shortly after you hang up. For protecting privacy, Call Notes runs fully on-device and everyone on the call will be notified if you have activated the feature. The Google Pixel 9 devices are the first Android phones to include Google's new Satellite SOS for contacting emergency responders via satellite14 and sharing your location, even without cellular service. Satellite SOS will be available first in the U.S. on Pixel 9 devices, regardless of your carrier plan. And for the first two years on Pixel, it will be available at no extra cost. All Pixel 9 phones are powered by Google's new custom chip, the Tensor G4. The Tensor G4 was designed with Google DeepMind and is optimized to run Google's most advanced AI models. It will be the first processor to run Gemini Nano with Multimodality, helping your phone understand text, images and audio. Google has also upgraded the memory across the entire Pixel 9 family, with 12GB of RAM for Pixel 9 and 16GB for Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL.7. The Pixel 9 phones have a new look that puts the camera front and center with an evolution of Google's camera bar. The sculpted design features updated finishes, with a silky matte glass back and polished metal sides. Google claims the new phones are twice as durable as the Pixel 8. The Pixel 9 has a 6.3-inch Actua display, 35% brighter than the Pixel 8 and rated the best display in its class. The camera gets an upgrade for the ultrawide lens, from 12MP on the Pixel 8 to 48MP on the Pixel 9. The front camera now has autofocus. The Pixel 9 has approximately a 20% longer battery life during active use with the screen on when compared to the Pixel 8.

Google Pixel 9 series has RAM reserved for on-device Gemini AI tasks

Weekend poll: Are you excited for Google's Pixel 9 launch event in August? Summary Google's new Pixel 9 series features a dedicated RAM portion for on-device AI processing, improving performance of AI features. All Pixel 9 models come with more RAM than before, with the base model offering 12GB and Pro models upgraded to 16GB. While performance improvements are still being tested, the reserved RAM may lead to faster on-device AI processing, enhancing user experience. After months of leaks and teasers, Google officially unveiled the Pixel 9 series on August 13, 2024. The new flagship smartphones from Google pack an all-new design, upgraded cameras, larger batteries, a more powerful and efficient Tensor G4 chipset, and several new AI features. However, to run these Gemini AI tasks efficiently, it seems Google has reserved some of the Pixel 9 series' RAM exclusively for on-device AI processing. Related Google Pixel 9: Price, specs, news, features, and release date Google's biggest mobile shakeup since Tensor is almost here 1 All models of Google's Pixel 9 series come with Gemini Nano for on-device AI processing. However, according to a report from Android Authority, Google has dedicated a portion of the RAM on all the Pixel 9 models specifically to running Gemini Nano with multi-modality. According to the report, Google says that this reserved RAM will allow AI features (both old and new), such as the Pixel Screenshots or the Add Me feature, to run quickly and smoothly. Google hasn't specified the exact amount of RAM reserved Google, however, hasn't disclosed the exact amount of RAM reserved. But, it has clarified that a portion of RAM will be permanently allocated for AI-based tasks. Moreover, users won't be able to reclaim this RAM even if they switch back to Google Assistant from the default Gemini Assistant. For context, all Pixel 9 models come with more RAM than before. While the entry-level Pixel 8 had only 8GB of RAM, the base Pixel 9 now ships with 12GB of RAM. On the other hand, all the Pro models, including the new Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the all-new Pixel 9 Pro Fold, have been upgraded to 16GB of RAM. This increase in RAM is understandable, given how AI focused the new smartphones are. Related The Pixel 9 Pros are the phones I've always wanted from Google Finally, a real deal small Android flagship 4 While we can't yet comment on the performance improvements of Google's new phones -- we're still in the process of testing our units -- we can't wait to see if this reserved RAM leads to faster on-device AI processing, something that was (sort of) slow on the previous generation. If, however, you're curious to try it out yourself, now might be the perfect time, as Google is currently offering great pre-order deals on all Pixel 9 models. Google Pixel 9 The Pixel 9 is Google's most affordable 2024 flagship, offering key features like a 48MP ultra-wide camera, 50MP main shooter, and autofocus selfie cam. While it makes a few compromises compared to the Pro models, it still includes new Gemini AI features and a 2,700-nit Actua display, providing great value at its price point. $799 at Google Store$799 at Best Buy$799 at Amazon Google Pixel 9 Pro The Pixel 9 Pro is a compact addition to Google's lineup, offering a smaller form factor while retaining all the AI and camera capabilities of the Pro series. It shares dimensions with the standard Pixel 9 but brings premium features like the Pixel 9 Pro XL, making it a standout in Google's high-end range. $999 at Google Store$999 at Best Buy$999 at Amazon Google Pixel 9 Pro XL The Pixel 9 Pro XL carries the same role as last year's Pixel 8 Pro, with similar specs and a familiar footprint. The new Pixel 9 Pro, however, is a smaller flagship option. The 9 Pro XL offers a larger screen, faster charging, and a bigger battery, along with all the camera and AI features of the 9 Pro. $1099 at Google Store$1099 at Best Buy$1099 at Amazon

Google reveals new Pixel 9 phones

Google has just unveiled the 9th generation of its flagship Pixel line, including a new Pixel, Pixel Pro, Pixel Pro XL, and Pixel Pro Fold. All of these phones feature a brand-new Google Tensor G4 chip which is set to improve a lot of features. First, from the images you can see the design mostly remains the same, with a few slight differences which will apparently make it fit more snugly in the hand. There's a change to the camera bar, too, seeing a small but notable evolution from past phones. Google also claims that the Pixel 9 will be twice as durable as the Pixel 8. There's a large focus on Google's Gemini AI in these phones as well. You'll get a year of Gemini Advanced with your Pixel 9 purchase no matter what phone you get, and the AI will remain installed on your phone to support with daily tasks and activities. A better weather app, different sizes of the Pro models, and more show that the Pixel 9 is looking to be quite different from its predecessors, but it's clear that AI is front and centre in showing off the latest features.