Google Pixel 9 Series: A Leap Forward in Design and Features, but at a Higher Price

I went hands-on with every Google Pixel 9 phone, and here's my initial buying advice

The new Google Pixel 9 series has slimmer, flatter designs, upgraded camera hardware, and AI features that you will 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: I went hands-on with Google's $1,799 Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and I'm ready to switch from Samsung 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 this week'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: Everything announced at Made by Google 2024 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's new Pixel Screenshots may be the feature that finally converts me to use AI 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.

7 changes Google made on Pixel 9 compared to Pixel 8

It's only August, but Google has already unveiled the successor to last year's Pixel 8 series with the official launch of the Pixel 9 lineup. This new series introduces four models: the standard Pixel 9, two Pro versions -- a smaller Pixel 9 Pro and the 'true' successor to the Pixel 8 Pro, called Pixel 9 Pro XL -- and a new foldable, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. If you're curious about what the new Pixel 9 offers over last year's Pixel 8, here are seven key differences you should be aware of. 1 Minor size and dimension changes between the new Pixel 9 and its predecessor Pixel 9 adds width and height over Pixel 8 While the Pixel 8 took a smaller approach compared to the Pixel 7, the Pixel 9 returns to a (slightly) larger size. It's both taller (by 2.3mm) and wider (by 1.2mm) than the Pixel 8, but it's also slightly thinner (by 0.4mm) despite having a larger battery. However, with this increase in size, the Pixel 9 is slightly heavier at 198 grams compared to the Pixel 8's 187 grams. For a clearer comparison, here are the dimensions of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9: Google Pixel 8 measurements : 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9mm Google Pixel 9 measurements: 152.8 x 72 x 8.5mm 2 The Pixel 9 gets a new look and improved durability to boot Pixel 9 features the new Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection The most noticeable change in the Pixel 9 compared to last year's Pixel 8 is the shift in design language. While previous Pixel models featured a distinctive curved design with the camera visor blending into the side frame, the Pixel 9 adopts an iPhone-like approach with flat edges and rounded corners. Although the curved edges help ensure the new form factor doesn't dig into your palm -- unlike other Android flagships like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 -- the flat edges and shiny frame make the Pixel 9 feel like it's losing some of its originality and charm. While we're on the topic of design and build, it's worth noting that the Pixel 9 maintains the same IP68 dust and water resistance rating as the Pixel 8. However, one key upgrade is that the newer model uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 strengthened glass. This means both the screen and back glass of the Pixel 9 are more durable and more resistant to scratching compared to the Pixel 8. Related Google Pixel 9: Hardware specs, cameras, special features, pricing, and availability Google's biggest mobile shakeup since Tensor is almost here 1 3 The Pixel 9's display is slightly larger and much brighter A much brighter display this time around Shifting our focus to the front, the Pixel 9 features a slightly larger display than the Pixel 8 (6.3-inch vs. 6.2-inch). While most of the specs remain the same, including the LTPO OLED Actua panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support, the Pixel 9 brings a key upgrade in brightness. The Pixel 8 maxed out at 2,000 nits of peak brightness -- which is still super bright -- but the Pixel 9 now reaches up to 2,700 nits. This will make the phone's outdoor visibility better, allowing you to see content more easily in bright conditions. 4 A new, AI-focused Tensor chip and lots of RAM The Pixel 9 hardware is built with Google's AI features in mind The new Pixel 9 ships with a lot of new AI features, including Pixel Screenshots and the "Add Me" feature in the Photos app. To handle these on-device tasks, a large amount of RAM is required, and Google has stepped up by shipping the Pixel 9 with 12GB of RAM, up from 8GB in last year's Pixel 8. While the Pixel 9's UFS 3.1, NAND flash storage options remain unchanged at 128GB and 256GB, it ships with Google's new Tensor G4 processor. Although it's not a massive leap from the Tensor G3, the Tensor G4 offers a powerful CPU, an updated Exynos 5400 modem that should address cellular modem issues and provides Satellite SOS, and improved efficiency for everyday tasks. Related The 7 best Google Pixel 9 features All the crown-winning features Google offers 1 5 Camera hardware Say hi to an all-new 48MP ultra-wide camera Google Pixel smartphones have been regarded as some of the best camera phones out there. However, until now, the base Pixel models haven't always featured the highest-quality lenses. While the Pixel 9 still lacks a telephoto sensor, it does come with an upgraded 48MP ultra-wide sensor with dual-pixel PDAF and an f/1.7 aperture, a significant improvement over the 12MP sensor in the previous generation. This should result in much sharper ultra-wide shots -- something that the base Pixel owners have complained about. Apart from that, the main shooter remains unchanged at 50MP, while the selfie camera is also the same at 10.5MP. It is, however, worth noting that the Pixel 9's selfie camera now has autofocus, which was absent in the Pixel 8. 6 Battery capacity Pixel 9 packs a bigger battery than Pixel 8 The Pixel 9 is slightly larger than the Pixel 8, and Google has taken perfect advantage of this, as the Pixel 9 ships with a larger 4,700 mAh battery, up from the 4,575 mAh cell in the Pixel 8. While the difference may not be noticeable in day-to-day use, a bigger battery is always a welcome improvement. If, however, you're expecting faster wired charging speeds, you'll be disappointed since they remain unchanged at 27W. 7 Price Pixel 9 starts at $100 more than Pixel 8 Over the course of the past few years, Google has steadily increased the prices of its Pixel phones. The Pixel 8 launched at $699, $100 more than the Pixel 7's starting price of $599, and this trend continues with the Pixel 9, which now starts at $799 -- a $200 increase in just two generations. Moreover, the base Pixel 9 doesn't include the bundled Google One AI Premium plan offered with the Pro models. While it's too early to comment, we'll have to wait and see if the Pixel 9 justifies its higher price. Pixel 9 is a major upgrade over Pixel 8 When you add everything up, the Pixel 9 brings significant upgrades over the Pixel 8. With new camera hardware, more RAM for faster on-device AI tasks, an improved modem, a faster processor, a fresh design, and more -- the Pixel 9 has a lot to offer compared to its predecessor. These differences are worth keeping in mind if you're considering buying one, and with great deals currently available on all Pixel 9 models, now might be the perfect time to make a purchase. Google Pixel 9 The Pixel 9 is Google's most affordable 2024 flagship, offering features like a new 48MP ultra-wide camera, satellite SOS, and a brighter display. 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 Pixel is no longer the cheap flagship alternative -- and this proves it

The era of Google being a 'cheap' phone brand is firmly over -- here's why Google has long been known for offering smartphones that are cheaper than its rivals. How much cheaper always depended on the model, but if you go back to any point in the past 14 years, you'll find that Google's phones were considered the cheaper alternative compared to the likes of Samsung's Galaxy S devices and Apple's iPhone. While there were some outliers -- the Nexus 6 which actually cost $50 more than that year's iPhone 7 -- you usually could get a pretty solid phone without having to pay quite as much money, even as Google's flagships got more expensive. But that's changed this year. The Google Pixel 9 series has seen another price hike, bringing the cost of Google's entry-level phone in line with comparable flagships. Go back to 2022 when the Google Pixel 7 arrived: you could have picked up that phone for $599. At the time, that price was $200 less than the cheapest iPhone 14 and Samsung Galaxy S22 models. While the Pixel 7 had its fair share of problems the price definitely wasn't one of them. The Pixel 7 Pro's $899 price tag was quite a bit more than the standard mode, but it still got to enjoy a $100 to $200 discount compared to other Pro and Ultra-label phones of the year. Fast forward a year when the Pixel 8 series pushed Google's prices up by $100. The Pixel 8 cost $699 compared to $999 for the Pixel 8 Pro, all while the iPhones and Galaxy S23 kept their prices more or less static. The higher-priced Pixels weren't ideal, but the Pixel 7 remained a cheaper option while also delivering a lot of big improvements. It's now a year later, and Google's done it again. This year, the cheapest Pixel 9 will cost $799 -- $100 more than the Pixel 8 and the same price as the iPhone 15 and Galaxy S24. The Pixel 9 Pro looks like it's the same price as last year's Pro model, until you realize it's not. Because this new version has a smaller screen and battery than the Pixel 8 Pro, making the Pixel 9 Pro XL the only true successor to that model. The XL model starts at $1,099, $100 more than it would have cost to buy a Pixel 8 Pro at launch. And once a phone crosses the $1,000 barrier, the last thing you should be calling it is cheap -- even if you preface the word with "relatively". The crazy thing is that the Pixel 9 Pro XL is still cheaper than the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max -- those two premium models also suffered their own price hikes. The key difference there is that Samsung and Apple also scrapped the 128GB storage option, and kept the price of a 256GB model the same as the previous year. So the starting price did go up, but it also stayed the same from a certain point of view. The Pixel 9 Pro XL doesn't have that advantage and has the same tired, increasingly useless 128GB storage option. There are a lot of reasons why buying a Pixel phone is a good idea. You're first in line for all the latest Android updates, regular feature drops add more features to your phone throughout the year, and recent models offer seven years of software support -- something not even Apple can claim. We're also expecting some of the newest AI features that debut on the Pixel 9 to be ported over to older models like the Pixel 8, giving current Pixel users the ability to enjoy what the newest phones have to offer while still hanging onto their existing device. Even if every feature doesn't migrate to last year's flagships or perform as well as it might on a Tensor G4-powered device, it's still a great little perk. The problem here is that a lower price was always one of the big reasons why people recommended Google's phones. Being able to get a comparable premium phone experience to an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy without having to pay quite as much can't be argued with -- especially when you take the other Pixel perks into consideration. Over the years other Android phone makers have caught up to what Google has to offer. Sure, nobody can compete with Google on software rollout times, but Samsung has been doing its darndest to get updates out a lot more quickly. Similarly we've seen other Android phones start offering longer software support, with Samsung even matching Google's seven year pledge. Other low-cost flagships that have popped up over the years have been making big leaps in their technology. OnePlus is a great example, since it was always considered to be a fantastic brand that was often let down by its camera performance. These days, the OnePlus 12 is one of the best camera phones, and while not quite as good as Google, Samsung and Apple flagships, it's clear the phone maker isn't going away anytime soon. On top of that, Pixel phones are often rife with issues. Not just general teething problems that gather headlines right after launch, but also very inconsistent performance in many areas. Battery life has always been Google's biggest weakness, with the Pixel 8 lasting less than 10 hours in our custom battery life test -- compared to 13.5 hours for Samsung's standard Galaxy S24. There's also the fact that Google rarely, if ever, used a flagship chipset -- even before adopting the custom Tensor series. With Pixel prices going up, it makes that performance dip seem a lot less appealing. Raw performance may not be everything, and Tensor's focus on AI optimization and security are very important, but we still wonder whether Google could have been doing a lot better if it had tried. There are still reasons to like Pixel phones. The AI-centric angle Google's been taking is going to be a very big deal going forward, and Google still offers some of the best software support of any Android device. While we haven't done any official testing with the Pixel 9 models so far, we've got high hopes for the camera and picture quality. But that higher price tag is like the elephant in the room, and it means Pixels aren't the bargains they once were. I anything Google has handed quite a big advantage to the cheaper options. The OnePlus 12, in particular, may still cost $799, the same as a Pixel 9, but it's also effectively the Pro model by another name -- a phone comparable to much pricier rivals. So long as OnePlus can resist hiking up the price of the OnePlus 13 early next year, it could help that company capture in a few Pixel exiles that are turned off by higher Pixel 9 prices. At least we'll always have the A-series Pixels as a more affordable option. Or we will if Google can resist hiking up the price of the Pixel 9a when it lands next spring.

Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8a: Sibling Rivalry - Phandroid

There's little doubt that Google's newest Pixel 9 series devices pack some delightful hardware and software upgrades, such as more premium designs, brihgter displays, and improved cameras. It's also important to note however that they are a bit more expensive this time around, which might be an issue for buyers. You see, one of the biggest strongpoints of past Google Pixel smartphones is that they were usually more economically-practical alternatives to other premium brands such as Samsung and Apple, often launched with reasonable pricing for the most part. This has changed with the most recent Pixel 9 series smartphones, with even the base-model Pixel 9 coming in at $799. Enter the Pixel "A" series - Google's midrange smartphones have evolved with features usually found on its more expensive flagships. Take for example the Pixel 8a, which shares many of the same traits as the more expensive Pixel 8 from 2023. It's also cheaper than the Pixel 9, with a retail price that's $300 less than the 2024 flagship. If you're in the market for a 2024-series Pixel phone, then you might be interested in either of these two - let's check them out! At its usual retail price of $499, the Pixel 8a is obviously the more affordable choice between the two phones, and you can even find it cheaper with trade-in deals and promos, for example. That being said, the Pixel 8a's lower price doesn't necessarily mean that you get a terrible phone, which is usually the case in such scenarios. The Pixel 8a comes with features that outshine previous A-series Pixel phones, like a brighter display (2,000 nits peak) with a 120Hz refresh rate, a fairly large battery at 4,492 mAh, a high-resolution 64MP main camera, class-3 face unlock security, as well as newer Pixel software features like Best Take, Magic Editor, and Circle to search. Of course Google's amazing computational photography is present as well, which gives it an edge over similarly-priced midrange phones out there. ...Google's amazing computational photography is present as well, which gives it an edge over similarly-priced midrange phones out there. It's not perfect though.- as a midrange phone it lacks the more "premium" glass build on other devices, although we'd argue that the plastic back makes it more resilient to cracks. You also get a pretty thick bezel around the display, which serves as an ever-present reminder of budgetary constraints. Again though, this will matter little to people who just want a good Pixel phone at an affordable price. Moving over to the Pixel 9, and we can see that Google hasn't held back on pumping its base-model flagship with new tricks. The display is brighter now at 2,700 nits (peak), there's a much faster and more accurate ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, 12GB of RAM, a larger battery at 4,700 mAh, a higher-resolution 48MP ultrawide camera alongside a 50MP main camera, a new selfie camera lens with autofocus functionality, as well as Google's new Tensor G4 chip. You're also getting a better-looking device with slimmer bezels, as well as Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and rear panels of the phone. It's probably the most refined-looking Pixel so far, although the comparisons to iPhones and Samsung's S24 series phones are unavoidable. READ: Google Pixel 9 vs iPhone 15: A Clear Winner! Overall, the Pixel 9 is undoubtedly a more versatile phone than the 8a, and will come with a lot of the same software and AI functions, in addition to those not found on the 8a - this includes features like Cinematic Blur and the new satellite SOS service, to name a couple. Sure, you'll be spending a bit more, but you're getting a device without any of the limitations found on the Pixel 8a. As with a lot of other phone comparisons, results will ultimately be subjective depending on individual user needs. With that said, not everyone will need these features, and there's been some sentiment about the actual practical uses of AI especially for users who aren't too intertwined with consumer technology, and would just like a decent daily smartphone. The Pixel 8a is undoubtedly the more practical choice between the two, especially for buyers on a budget. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 is objectively the better device in terms of hardware, and offers a more "complete" Pixel user experience. One just has to keep in mind the financial considerations to make when going with Google's latest flagship phone.

Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro: Which should you buy? | Digital Trends

Google has just unveiled the next generation of Pixel devices with the Pixel 9 series. This lineup now has four phones, similar to Apple's own iPhone lin. They are the Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Now that Google has brought back the XL version, the Pixel 9 Pro is a smaller version of the Pro flagship. So how does it compare to Apple's own device of a similar nature, the Apple iPhone 15 Pro? Let's take a look. Recommended Videos Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro: specs Google Pixel 9 Pro Apple iPhone 15 Pro Dimensions 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm 6 x 2.8 x 0.3 inches 146.6 x 70.6 x 8.25 mm 5.77 x 2.78 x 0.32 inches Weight 199 grams 7 ounces 187 grams 6.60 ounces Display 6.3-inch Super Actua LTPO OLED display 1280 x 2856 resolution at 495 ppi 120Hz refresh rate 2000 nits (HDR)/3000 nits (peak) 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display 2556 by 1179 resolution at 460 ppi 120Hz refresh rate 1600 nits (HDR)/2000 nits (peak) Durability Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 IP68 Ceramic Shield IP68 Colors Rose Quartz Hazel Obsidian Porcelain Black Titanium White Titanium Blue Titanium Natural Titanium Processor Google Tensor G4 Apple A17 Pro RAM 16GB 8GB Storage 128GB 256GB 512GB 1TB 128GB 256GB 512GB 1TB Software Android 14 iOS 17 Updates Seven years of OS, Feature Drops, and security updates At least five years or more Rear cameras 50-megapixel main, f/1.68, 82-degree FOV 48MP ultrawide, f/1.7, 123-degree FOV 48MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom, f/2.8, 22-degree FOV 48MP main, f/1.78 12MP ultrawide, f/2.2 12MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom, f/2.8 Front camera 42MP with autofocus f/2.2 aperture 103-degree ultrawide FOV 12MP TrueDepth camera f/1.9 aperture Battery 4,700mAh 3,274mAh Charging 30W fast charging (50% in 30 minutes) 23W fast wireless charging Reverse wireless 30W fast charging (50% in 30 minutes) 15W wireless charging 4.5W reverse wireless Price Starts at $999 Starts at $999 Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro: design and display Google took a page from Apple this year regarding some elements of the Pixel 9 lineup's design. It seems that ever since Apple went with the flat edges with the iPhone 12, a lot of competitors have followed suit, including Google. The Pixel 9 Pro now features flattened edges on the frame, just like the iPhone 15 Pro. However, the corners are more rounded on the Pixel 9 Pro. The Google phone also has a revamped camera bar from previous generations, which is now an elongated capsule that houses a triple lens camera system. Rather than extending into the edges of the frame, the new camera bar ends just short of the edges. For the Pixel 9 Pro, Google went with a glossy frame, which does give it a more "premium" look, but is also more prone to fingerprints and smudges. The back glass has a matte finish, however, which should reduce the amount of smudges and fingerprints. The Pixel 9 Pro uses Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for improved durability. The Pixel 9 Pro is available in four colors: Rose Quartz, Hazel, Obsidian, and Porcelain. The design of the iPhone 15 Pro is similar to previous years, but Apple did make some nice changes. The iPhone 15 Pro switched to a titanium frame instead of stainless steel, making the device a bit more lightweight. The titanium frame also has a brushed metal look, rather than polished. The edges are still flat, the back glass is a matte finish, and the camera module remains unchanged. For the front glass, Apple uses its proprietary Ceramic Shield. For the entire iPhone 15 lineup, Apple switched over to USB-C from Lightning, making the iPhone 15 Pro one of the first iPhones with USB-C, Apple also switched out the silent/ring toggle for the brand new Action button, which is exclusively on the Pro models. As far as displays, the Google Pixel 9 Pro has a 6.3-inch Super Actua LTPO OLED panel that features thinner and more uniform bezels than its predecessor. It has a resolution of 1280 x 2856 at 495 pixels per inch (ppi) and a dynamic refresh rate between 1Hz and120Hz. In terms of brightness, it can reach up to 2000 nits for HDR content and 3000 nits peak brightness. It has a small hole-punch cutout for the front-facing camera. The iPhone 15 Pro sports a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 2556 x 1179 resolution at 460 ppi. It uses Apple's ProMotion display technology with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling. In terms of brightness, it's typically 1,000 nits, 1,600 nits for HDR content, and 2,000 nits peak. Apple introduced the new Dynamic Island on the iPhone 15 Pro, which changes size and shape depending on content, and also hides the front-facing TrueDepth camera. The iPhone 15 has four color options to pick from: Blue Titanium, Natural Titanium, Black Titanium, and White Titanium. Winner: Tie Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro: cameras If you want a smartphone with a great camera, both of these have some pretty impressive specs, but one definitely edges out the other. The Pixel 9 Pro has a triple camera system on that revised camera module. It sports a 50-megapixel Octa PD wide camera with f/1.68 aperture and an 82-degree field of view (FOV), as well as a 48MP Quad PD ultrawide lens with f/1.7 aperture and a 123-degree FOV, and a 48MP Quad PD telephoto camera with f/2.8 aperture and a 22-degree FOV with 5x optical zoom. For the front facing camera, it is a 42MP Dual PD with autofocus, f/2.2 aperture, and 103-degree ultrawide FOV. On the iPhone 15 Pro, we have a triple lens camera system as well, but with slightly less impressive numbers. It has a 48MP main wide camera with f/1.78 aperture, 12MP ultrawide lens with f/2.2 aperture, and 12MP telephoto with f/2.8 aperture and only 3x optical zoom. The front-facing camera is only 12MP with f/1.9 aperture. While the iPhone 15 Pro Max has the new periscope telephoto lens, Apple could not include that on the smaller Pro due to size constraints. Again, the iPhone 15 Pro doesn't take bad photos, but when you look at the specs on paper, the Pixel 9 Pro definitely outclasses it. Of course, this is based on early impressions, so that may change when we've had more hands-on time with the Pixel 9 Pro. Winner: Google Pixel 9 Pro Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro: performance Both Google and Apple use custom processors that they've developed in-house for their respective devices. Inside the Google Pixel 9 Pro is the new Tensor G4 chip from Google, as well as 16GB RAM. You can also choose from four different storage capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. This would be the first time that there is 16GB of RAM in a Pixel phone, as Google previously capped it at 12GB. The reason for the bump in RAM across the board is due to all of the new AI features and tools integrated into the software, as AI requires a lot of power to run. The iPhone 15 Pro uses Apple's A17 Pro chip and has 8GB RAM, and storage sizes range from 128GB up to 1TB. While the iPhone 15 Pro has half the RAM of the Pixel 9 Pro, it is the most RAM that Apple has put in an iPhone so far, as all previous iPhones only had 6GB RAM. The 8GB RAM that is in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max also make these the only existing iPhone models that are capable of running Apple Intelligence, which is Apple's suite of AI features coming in iOS 18. In our time with the iPhone 15 Pro it became clear the A17 Pro chip gives it plenty of power and performance, as we've never had issues using it daily. Everything is fast and snappy, launching and switching between apps is seamless, and scrolling is as smooth as it can be. We need more time with the Pixel 9 Pro to determine the performance capabilities of the Tensor G4 chip, but we hope it's an improvement over last year's Tensor G3. At the moment, it's hard to say whether either one of these devices will have an upper hand, but Apple has traditionally had stronger processors over time. We're going to give it to Apple until we've had more time with the Pixel. Winner: Apple iPhone 15 Pro Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro: software and updates On the software side of things, it's night and day here. One is Android, the other is iOS. It really comes down to your preference. The Pixel 9 Pro comes with Android 14 out of the box, but Android 15 is just on the horizon. This does make it the first time that the latest Pixel does not come with the newest version of Android, so it's an unprecedented change. Despite that, Google will still bundle in some cool software tricks for the Pixel 9 line, including the Pixel 9 Pro. With the Tensor G4 and 16GB RAM, the Pixel 9 Pro will be able to run Gemini Nano with multimodality, which means it can understand text, image, audio, and speech inputs all together. Gemini will also the be the default assistant through Gemini Live, and it will feel more natural to have a conversation with than Google Assistant. Other software goodies include a new Add Me feature with the camera. This lets you add yourself into a group photo by taking two photos (one with you in it). Add Me then merges both images into a composite one where everyone is present. There will also be a new Auto Frame in the Magic Editor, which can recompose a photo to improve the overall composition. There will even be a standalone Pixel Screenshots app, separating your screenshots from your other photos. They're searchable too. Google promises seven years of OS upgrades, feature drops, and security patches. The iPhone 15 Pro currently has iOS 17, but it will get iOS 18 once that arrives later in the fall. Though Apple hasn't yet said how long the iPhone 15 Pro will be supported, most Apple devices last at least five or more years. Apple is making a lot of changes with iOS 18 this year, especially with the addition of Apple Intelligence. If you get an iPhone 15 Pro now, you'll be able to utilize Apple Intelligence tools like text summarization, priority notifications, writing tools, a much smarter Siri with on-screen contextual awareness, and multimodal requests. There will even be ChatGPT integration. There are also some big non-AI features coming in iOS 18. This includes even better home screen customization where you can place apps and widgets anywhere on the grid, lock screen shortcut customization, a revamped Control Center, RCS support in iMessage, and more. But again, these iOS 18 features aren't readily available yet, as the iPhone 15 Pro comes with iOS 17 at the moment. It will be able to be updated to iOS 18 once that launches in the fall, alongside the new iPhone 16 line. But for now, that gives the Pixel an edge. Winner: Google Pixel 9 Pro Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro: battery and charging The Pixel 9 Pro has a fairly large 4,700mAh battery, which Google says should last over 24 hours on a single charge. If you use Extreme Battery Saver, that can be stretched out to about 100 hours. For charging, the Pixel 9 Pro has fast charging up to 30 watts, which gives you about 50% in 30 minutes. There is also fast wireless charging around 23W, and Battery Share reverse wireless charging. Apple typically doesn't release specific numbers for batteries on its devices, and instead relyies on real-world use to measure the metric. But the iPhone 15 Pro has a 3274mAh battery inside, which is quite small compared to the Pixel 9 Pro's. It definitely does not get over 24 hours of battery life, as it's very common to need to charge it at some point during the day. Even though Apple switched over to USB-C with the iPhone 15 Pro, it did not improve charging speeds. It still has about 30W fast charging, so you get about 50% in 30 minutes. Wireless charging is 15W and reverse wireless is 4.5W. This is a tough category to score, as we haven't had much time to play with the Pixel 9 Pro yet. The Pixel 8 Pro was a winner where battery life was concerned, but Google can be a little inconsistent in this metric, so we're going to keep this as a tie -- for now. Winner: Tie Google Pixel 9 Pro vs. iPhone 15 Pro: verdict Considering that the Apple iPhone 15 Pro is last year's iPhone, the Google Pixel 9 Pro is looking like a better buy at this point in time. With Apple set to have its own iPhone 16 event in about a month, the iPhone 15 Pro is a bit outdated at this point. The Pixel 9 Pro is shaping up to be a great choice, especially for those who have been wanting a smaller Pixel Pro phone. The revamped design is a breath of fresh air for the Pixel 9 lineup, and Google did a great job with the color choices. Those who also want a powerful phone should pick up the Pixel 9 Pro. The Tensor G4 chip sounds promising, and for the first time, the Pixel 9 Pro will have 16GB RAM, which should mean great performance, especially with all the AI tools. The triple lens camera is also a big upgrade. If you're looking for a new phone right now, then you can't go wrong with the Pixel 9 Pro, especially if you prefer smaller phones.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Pixel Fold: What's new? | Digital Trends

Digital Trends may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Why trust us? The successor to the 2023 Google Pixel Fold is the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which has a lot to offer over its predecessor other than just a longer name. If you have the first version, you might wonder if there are enough differences between the two phones to warrant an update. In this post, we'll compare the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold to the Pixel Fold. There are some surprises, so take a look below. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Pixel Fold: specs Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Google Pixel Fold Size Folded: 155.2 x 77.1 x 10.5 mm Unfolded: 155.2 x 150.2 x 5.1 mm Folded: 139.7 x 79.5 x 12.1 mm Unfolded: 139.7 x 158.7 x 5.8 mm Weight 257 grams 283 grams Colors Obsidian, Porcelain Obsidian, Porcelain Displays 6.3-inch OLED (2424 x 1080) cover display 8-inch OLED (2152 x 2076) internal display Up to 120Hz refresh rate for both Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2Up to 2700 nits (peak brightness) 5.8-inch OLED (2092 x 1080) cover display 7.6-inch OLED (2208 x 1840) main display Up to 120Hz refresh rate for both Corning Gorilla Glass VictusUp to 1450 nits (peak brightness) Chipset Google Tensor G4 Titan M2 security coprocessor Google Tensor G2 Titan M2 security coprocessor RAM 16GB 12GB Storage 256GB or 512GB 256GB or 512GB Rear cameras 48-megapixel wide camera 10.5MP ultrawide 10.8MP 5x telephoto lens 48MP wide camera 10.8MP ultrawide camera 10.8MP telephoto camera, 5x optical zoom Selfie cameras 10MP front camera 10MP inner camera 9.5MP front camera 8MP inner camera Battery 4,650 mAh Up to 24 hours of battery life Up to 72-hour battery life with Extreme Battery Saver 4,821 mAh Up to 33 hours of battery life to 72 hours of battery life with Extreme Battery Saver Charging Fast charging up to 45W Wireless charging, Qi-certified Fast charging up to 30W Wireless charging, Qi-certified Software, upgrades Ships with Android 14 Seven years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates Shipped initially with Android 13 Five years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates Price From $1,799 From $1,799 Recommended Videos Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Pixel Fold: design The main design difference between these two phones is that the newer one is the thinnest foldable you can buy, making it easier to fit into your pocket. It's also noticeably smaller and lighter than its predecessor, weighing just 257 grams, which is nearly 30 grams lighter than the earlier model. However, it's worth noting that the newer model is still somewhat heavy and weighs more than its chief competitor, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, which comes in at 239 grams. When the first Pixel Fold was released, many people were concerned about its durability and longevity, especially considering the high price of these phones. However, our limited experience with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has already convinced us that Google has been listening and making improvements. This phone is easier to use with one hand, easier to grip, and overall more satisfying. Additionally, it doesn't have the awkwardly narrow and tall design of Samsung's foldable phones when folded. Another note: the newer model is also about the same thickness as the Pixel 9 Pro XL., which is an impressive feat. One area where there has been no change is in the color choices. Like its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is only available in Obsidian and Porcelain. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Pixel Fold: displays The newest phone boasts larger and brighter displays, offering a significantly enhanced user experience, especially when using the device in tabletop mode for playing mobile games or enjoying a movie. The cover display now measures 6.3 inches, while the internal display on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has been upgraded to 8 inches from the previous 7.6 inches. The cover display has a variable refresh rate of 60Hz to 120Hz, providing smoother visuals. It is specifically designed for tasks such as checking notifications, answering calls, and quick interactions when the phone is folded. On the other hand, the 8-inch inner display comes with a Super Actua Flex display featuring an LTPO panel for efficient power consumption. This display offers a variable refresh rate of 1Hz to 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and animations. It serves as the main display for immersive content consumption, multitasking, and productivity. Despite the larger displays, the new phone is smaller and more portable,. The displays on the new foldable are safeguarded by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which provides improved drop performance on rough surfaces like concrete compared to the earlier version of Gorilla Glass Victus. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Pixel Fold: cameras The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has received several camera upgrades, although perhaps not as many as expected, given that the newer phone arrives two years after the first. Google's latest foldable features a 48-megapixel wide camera and a 10.8MP telephoto camera. The Pixel Fold's 10.8MP sensor has been replaced by an ultrawide camera with a 10.5MP PD sensor with autofocus. The newer phone includes 10MP front and 10MP inner cameras for the two selfie cameras, which are slightly better than the front-facing cameras on the previous model. It's difficult to determine how different the camera systems on the two phones are, besides raw specs, until lengthy hands-on tests are performed. For now, it's basically educated guesses at best. What we do know, however, is that the original Pixel Fold did offer a good camera system, like all Pixels do, so we expect the same here. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Pixel Fold: performance and battery Let's discuss the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold's performance and battery life. It's powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset, an improvement over the previous model's Google Tensor G2. The new chipset features eight cores with eight threads, a maximum clock frequency of 3.10 GHz, and 16GB of memory, whereas the Google Tensor G2 had eight cores with eight threads and a maximum clock frequency of 2.85 GHz and supports 12GB of memory on the Pixel Fold. Regrettably, this year's Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, like its predecessor, only comes in 256GB or 512GB storage options. It's 2024, and it would be great to see foldable phones with more onboard storage. Due to its thinner design, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a smaller battery, resulting in a shorter time between charges. Although both phones can last at least 24 hours before needing a recharge, the new phone's chipset is more efficient, so there should be noticeable improvements in this regard. Regarding fast charging, the new phone supports 45-watt wired charging with compatible chargers and also features wireless charging. It's important to note that we haven't had much time with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold yet, so we can't confirm its battery performance. We weren't impressed with the original model's slow wireless charging, so we hope it has improved this time around. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Pixel Fold: software and updates The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is expected to come with the latest Android 14 and is also anticipated to support the upcoming Android 15, which is set to be released before the end of the year. This phone will receive software updates and support from Google for an impressive seven years. The previous model initially had Android 13 and will only receive five years of OS software and updates. Both foldable devices support a number of Google's AI features, but the newer model is expected to have even more advanced features due to its updated specifications. For instance, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers an advanced Magic Editor that allows users to change elements within their images, like removing objects, replacing the sky, or adjusting people's poses. The new Add Me feature enables users to add themselves to a shot, even if they're the ones taking the picture. With the Made You Look feature, the phone can play engaging sounds to capture children's attention and encourage them to focus on the camera during a shot. Users can also anticipate an improved voice assistant on the new Google foldable, thanks to Google Gemini, enhanced text recognition, advanced call screening technology, and more. Undoubtedly, there are significant differences on paper between both models regarding software. However, thorough testing will be required to determine whether these improvements are truly impressive. It's without a doubt, though, that future features will bypass the Pixel Fold while being supported on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Pixel Fold: Should you upgrade? The Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant advancement over its predecessor. Given its higher price, whether it's worth upgrading primarily depends on your preference for a slightly improved camera system and larger displays. While improved internals are important, they may not be enough to warrant an upgrade. If you're interested in a Google Pixel Fold with a more radical design and additional color options, it's advisable to wait. Whether this means waiting another year or two is uncertain. Lastly, let's talk about AI. Google, Samsung, and Apple are fully committed to integrating AI into our daily lives through smart devices. While the original Pixel Fold has some AI support, it lacks the extent of AI features in the newer model. The gap between both models regarding AI capabilities will likely widen with software updates. Therefore, if you're particularly interested in AI and want access to the latest and most excellent tools, upgrading to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and retiring your earlier model would be a sensible decision.

Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8: Price, Specifications, and Features Compared

If you prioritise having more RAM, the Google Pixel 9 is an excellent choice. However, if your focus is on budget, the Pixel 8 might be a better option, even though it's a previous generation. Both phones are listed on Flipkart, and the Pixel 8 is also available on Amazon. Google Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8: Design and Build The Pixel 9 and Pixel 8 each feature unique designs. The Pixel 9 has a more modern and chic appearance, which is great if you want a stylish phone. Both devices are IP68-rated, but the Pixel 8 is slightly lighter than the Pixel 9. Regarding design, the Pixel 9 has the edge, offering a more attractive and robust build. Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8: Display The Pixel 9 features a slightly larger OLED display than the Pixel 8, offering 700 nits more brightness. The display quality is also noticeably improved. As a result, opting for the latest model would be a wise choice. Both phones have different Tensor chipsets built on a 4nm process and have distinct GPUs. The Google Tensor G4 SoC will likely deliver superior performance in general use. While the Pixel 9 seems the better option, we will conduct benchmark tests and comparisons with real-world usage once we have the new devices for review. Both phones operate on Android 14, offering impressive customisation options and a sleek, interactive UI. It would have been ideal if the Pixel 9 had come with the upcoming Android 15. Additionally, the Pixel 9 incorporates numerous AI features, which is a significant advantage. So, the Pixel 9 delivers a more advanced software experience because of its AI enhancements. In contrast, the Pixel 8 provides the same UI but lacks many AI features. When it comes to cameras, the Pixel 9 takes the lead. While the primary and selfie cameras are similar on both phones, the Pixel 9 offers a superior overall camera experience. So, if the camera quality is your main concern, the Pixel 9 is the better choice. The Pixel 9 has a bigger battery and better charging technology than the Pixel 8, so it's a clear winner here. The Pixel 9 boasts an appealing design, outstanding cameras, strong battery life, and a powerful chipset. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 has a comparable display and a slightly altered design. The newer model is a logical choice if staying up-to-date with the latest technology is important to you. However, if you aim to save money, the Pixel 8 remains a solid option in 2024.

Google Pixel 9 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy S24+: Price, Specifications, and Features Compared | MySmartPrice

The Samsung Galaxy S24+ is cheaper than the Google Pixel 9 Pro in the country. It is also offered in two RAM+Storage configurations. Samsung is offering an instant bank discount of Rs 10,000 on HDFC Bank credit and debit card transactions and an exchange bonus of Rs 10,000, making it a good deal. However, the Pixel 9 Pro gets 16GB of RAM and at Rs 1,09,999, it appears a better option than the S24+'s top variant, which has the same price tag. Google is yet to reveal the availability date and offer details of the Google Pixel 9 Pro. The Samsung Galaxy S24+ is lighter and thinner than the Google Pixel 9 Pro. Both smartphones get Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection and IP68 on the rear for enhanced safety. However, the Galaxy S24+ also comes with an armour aluminium frame, which makes it more durable. As for the design, if you like the simple look Samsung follows, the S24+ can be picked and if you like the new design changes Google has made with the latest Pixels, the Pixel 9 Pro is your device. The Google Pixel 9 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S24+ flaunt an LTPO tech and come with similar Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection on the front. The Pixel 9 Pro has a slightly smaller display, which makes it comfortable for one-handed usage and holding for longer durations. Both phones have stereo speakers but the S24+ has sound tuned by AKG, which can call for better audio output. The Pixel 9 Pro's speakers support noise suppression, Spatial Audio and more. Both Google and Samsung smartphones also come with an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner. The Exynos 2400 SoC powering the Samsung Galaxy S24+ comes with a deca-core setup while the Tensor G4 SoC has an octa-core structure. Samsung also equips the Exynos 2400 SoC with higher clock speeds, which might result in better performance. That said, the dedicated Titan M2 security coprocessor on the Pixel 9 Pro increases the security of the smartphone than its competitor. The Google Pixel 9 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S24+ have a similar Android update policy. The latest response shared by Google officials hints that seven years of Android updates might ensure updates until Android 23. Google and Samsung also equip their smartphones with common features, including Interpreter, Circle to Search, Live Translate and more. The Pixel 9 Pro has an advantage with new on-device AI models, which results in slightly better features. The Pixel 9 Pro also offers a stock Android experience, which gives it an edge over the S24+. The Google Pixel 9 Pro has an advantage over the Samsung Galaxy S24+ as it comes with a higher-res ultrawide, telephoto, and front camera. The flagship smartphone also has several AI features, including Add Me, refreshed Panorama mode, Magic Editor, and more. On the contrary, Samsung also equips the Galaxy S24+ with features like ProVisual Engine and Photo Assist to enhance the user experience. The Samsung Galaxy S24+ has a slightly larger battery capacity, offering better battery backup. Both smartphones support similar fast-wired, wireless, and reverse wireless charging tech. Bear in mind that both Google and Samsung don't include the adaptor within the box, resulting in additional costs. The Google Pixel 9 Pro has a better triple camera setup on the rear with 5x optical zoom. The smartphone also sports multiple AI camera features for enhanced image processing and user experience. Its stock Android experience also makes it a more likeable choice. However, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ is relatively cheaper and offers slightly better performance with its deca-core SoC. The device also has several interesting Galaxy AI features and a larger battery, offering better backup to last a full day of usage. So, if you don't want to spend more and have a better battery backup, the S24+ can be opted for.

Pixel 9 Pro vs Pixel 8 Pro: Price, Specifications, and Features Compared | MySmartPrice

The Google Pixel 9 Pro is available in a single variant, while the Pixel 8 Pro offers two. The Pixel 9 Pro comes with 16GB of RAM, a configuration not offered by the Pixel 8 Pro. If you prioritise higher RAM, the Pixel 9 Pro is an excellent choice. However, if budget is your main concern, the Pixel 8 Pro with 12GB of RAM and 128GB of storage is a more economical option, even though it's from the previous generation. The second variant of the Pixel 8 Pro is priced at Rs 1,05,999, meaning the difference is just Rs 4,000 -- a relatively small amount. Therefore, choosing the latest model could be more logical. Both phones are available on Flipkart, and the Pixel 8 Pro is also listed on Amazon. Pixel 9 Pro vs Pixel 8 Pro: Design and Build The Pixel 9 Pro features a more contemporary design than the Pixel 8 Pro. While both devices are IP68-rated, the Pixel 8 Pro is slightly heavier than the 9 Pro. So, if you prioritise design and a lighter phone, the Pixel 9 Pro should be your top pick. Pixel 9 Pro vs Pixel 8 Pro: Display Both phones have LTPO OLED displays, but the Pixel 8 Pro offers a larger screen, with 600 nits less brightness than the Pixel 9 Pro. If you prioritise brightness and a smaller display, the Pixel 9 Pro is a solid choice. Both phones are equipped with different Tensor chipsets, each built on a 4nm process. They also have distinct GPUs. The Google Tensor G4 SoC is expected to offer better overall performance. While the Pixel 9 Pro seems to have an edge, we will run benchmark tests and real-world usage comparisons and update this article with our insights. Both phones run Android 14, featuring robust customisation options and a smooth, interactive user interface. The Pixel 9 Pro also includes a variety of AI-driven features, giving it a distinct edge. It would have been even better if the Pixel 9 Pro had been released with the upcoming Android 15, though. Therefore, the Pixel 9 Pro offers a more sophisticated software experience thanks to its AI capabilities. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro shares the same user interface but misses out on many of these AI features. Regarding the rear cameras, the Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel 8 Pro are quite similar, with only a minor difference in the aperture of the ultra-wide lens. However, the Pixel 9 Pro excels in the selfie camera department. Consequently, the Pixel 9 Pro is expected to deliver a better overall camera experience. We will provide more details in our full review. The Pixel 8 Pro features a larger battery than the Pixel 9 Pro. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 Pro excels in fast charging technology. If a bigger battery is more important to you, the Pixel 8 Pro would be the better choice. The Pixel 9 Pro boasts a distinct design, outstanding cameras, a powerful chipset, and a compact display. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro offers good battery life, solid performance, and impressive cameras. If staying up-to-date with the latest technology is important to you, the newer model is a logical choice. However, if you're aiming to save money, the Pixel 8 Pro remains a solid option in 2024, though you may need to compromise on the design aspect.

iPhone 16 Pro Max vs. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: Which big phone is the best?

Of course, there's a big debate between ecosystems. If you're an iPhone user, the iPhone 16 Pro Max already has a slight edge. And if you're an Android user, the Pixel 9 Pro XL probably looks more enticing. In two words: less work. But for those who want to ignore the operating system differences or want a change, we'll examine each phone's price, specs, design, and cameras to help you decide your winner between Apple's iPhone 16 Pro Max and Google's Pixel 9 Pro XL. There's no way to say definitively how much Apple will charge for the iPhone 16 Pro Max because it won't be launched until (probably) September. However, based on recent history, we're guessing it'll start at $1,199. Apple tacked an extra $100 to the iPhone 15 Pro Max compared to its predecessor, so the likelihood that the company would increase the price again one generation later is slim. It could happen, but the chances are low. If the iPhone 16 Pro Max is priced at $1,199, it'll cost an additional $100 compared to Google's Pixel 9 Pro XL, which has officially launched starting at $1,099. Winner: Pixel 9 Pro XL The Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 16 Pro Max reportedly feature rounded corners and a protruding camera array with three cameras, but the phones look noticeably different. For the first time, Google ditched the iconic Pixel camera bar, so the Pixel 9 Pro XL features a pill-shaped camera bumpout that looks quite large. In comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is expected to come equipped with a square-shaped camera array that looks almost identical to that of the Phone 15 Pro Max. In terms of display, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is expected to debut a large 6.9-inch screen, which would be 0.2 inches more than the iPhone 15 Pro Max's screen. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features a slightly smaller 6.8-inch display. According to CAD models shared with 9to5Mac, the iPhone 16 Pro Max could have dimensions of 6.48 x 3.04 x 0.32 inches. This isn't much larger than Google's confirmed Pixel 9 Pro XL dimensions: 6.4 x 3.0 x 0.3 inches. The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes in four different colorways: Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, and Rose Quartz. No colors have been confirmed yet for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, but the biggest rumor is from reliable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who says the iPhone 16 Pro Max may come in "black, white (or silver), grey (I think it's natural titanium), [and] rose." Winner: It's a draw. Google's Pixel 9 Pro XL (or the Pixel 9 Pro) is the best Pixel 9 device you can buy if taking high-quality photos is important to you. We're expecting the iPhone 16 Pro Max to be the same for Apple fans, but we don't have any explicit specs yet on the phone's camera setup. In front, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is equipped with a 42MP Dual PD selfie camera with autofocus, f/2.2 aperture, and 103° field of view. Turning it around, the Pixel 9 Pro XL features a triple rear camera array with the following cameras: There haven't been many iPhone 16 Pro Max rumors surrounding the camera setup, but we know it'll at least match the setup on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which includes: One of the biggest iPhone 16 Pro Max camera rumors comes from analyst Jeff Pu in a research note covered by MacRumors. Pu claims that Apple's next-gen Pro Max phone could be equipped with a 48MP ultrawide camera, which would be a massive upgrade over the existing 12MP camera. The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a better selfie camera and a better rear camera array than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Winner: To be determined Both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 16 Pro Max offer advanced AI features, but Google seems to have at least a slight advantage over Apple in this comparison. Google launched Gemini Nano with the Pixel 8 Pro, which lets you complete many AI-powered tasks on-device without needing an internet connection. Following the announcement of the Pixel 9 series at Made by Google 2024, Google released a blog post that confirms what to expect from the Pixel 9 series. Each Pixel 9 series phone will be equipped with a Google Tensor G4 chip, "designed with Google DeepMind" and "optimized to run [Google's] most advanced AI models." The Google Tensor G4 will be the first chip to run Gemini Nano with Multimodality, which Google says "helps your phone understand text, images, and audio." To give Google even more of an edge, the company boosted RAM across all Pixel 9 devices (up to 12GB for Pixel 9 and up to 16GB for Pixel 9 Pro/Pro XL), something we've heard Apple might not do for its iPhone 16 series. Google says this move is to "make sure the AI-powered experiences on your device run smoothly." Meanwhile, Apple Intelligence isn't ready for the public yet, and it won't even be released with the iPhone 16 Pro Max at launch in September. It isn't expected to be released until iOS 18.1, sometime in October. Apple plans to split Apple Intelligence features between on-device and cloud-based processing with secure servers. It's not clear yet when or if the iPhone 16 Pro Max will have any fully on-device features. Without having all the facts, we can't declare a winner in this face-off just yet. Apple will likely launch the iPhone 16 Pro Max on schedule in September (probably September 10) at an unannounced event. It's impossible to truly compare the two phones until we have definitive info on the iPhone 16 Pro Max and its specs. That said, from what we know right now about the Pixel 9 Pro XL and what we've heard about the iPhone 16 Pro Max, it seems like the Pixel 9 Pro XL might have an objective edge over the iPhone 16 Pro Max. We'll update this face-off when Apple launches the iPhone 16 series, and we have both phones in hand to compare.