Google has unveiled the Pixel 9 series earlier than expected, opting for an August launch instead of the usual October release. This change comes with some adjustments to the Pixel lineup, most notably the introduction of a new Pro model that is similar in size to the standard version, causing the latter to shift slightly in the hierarchy.
Google's Pixel 9: Everything You Need to Know About the Latest Upgrade
Visualization and Design
The Google Pixel 9 features a 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz FHD+ panel. This model has improved security and user experience by switching from an optical fingerprint sensor to a more reliable ultrasonic sensor. The peak brightness of the display has also seen a significant increase, reaching 2,700 nits compared to the 2,000 nits of its predecessor.
The slight increase in screen size makes the Pixel 9 slightly larger than last year’s model, but it still remains one of the smallest Android phones on the market. Compared to the new Pixel 9 Pro, the two devices share the same dimensions: 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5mm and 198 grams. For users who prefer a larger screen, the Pixel 9 Pro XL or Pixel 9 Pro Fold offer larger alternatives.
Camera Capabilities
From the outside, the most notable difference between the Pixel 9 and its Pro counterpart is the inclusion of a periscope lens on the Pro model. The standard Pixel 9 continues with a dual-camera setup that includes a wide and an ultrawide lens. Despite the more basic setup, the Pixel 9 uses the same high-quality hardware for its cameras as the other two non-foldable models.
The primary camera remains unchanged from last year, featuring a 1/1.31-inch Samsung GNK sensor and a 50MP module with optical image stabilization (OIS). The front camera has a 10.5MP Samsung sensor. It’s similar to the previous model, but now includes an autofocus lens for improved selfies.
The ultra-wide camera module has received a significant upgrade and now houses a 48MP sensor with a 123-degree lens. This is a significant improvement over the 12MP sensor found on the previous 8-series model.
Performance and Processing
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Inside, the Pixel 9 has been upgraded with a Tensor G4 processor that includes a single Cortex-X4 core, three A720 cores, and four A520 cores. This configuration is one less core than last year, but the new chip promises better efficiency. Especially with the new Exynos 5400 modem. The Mali-G715 GPU remains largely unchanged, but benefits from a slight boost in clock speed.
Another significant upgrade is the increase in RAM; the Pixel 9 now offers 12GB, matching the amount found in last year’s Pro model. This increase is particularly useful for running AI apps like Google’s Gemini Nano on the device, as the additional memory allows for smoother performance.
Software and Battery Life
Google continues its commitment to long-term support by offering seven years of software updates, including both OS and security patches. The Pixel 9 series is launching with Android 14, despite the expectation of Android 15 in the near future. This early version likely explains the use of an older Android version, but Pixel 9 owners can expect to be among the first to receive the Android 15 update.
In terms of battery life, the Pixel 9 sees a modest improvement in capacity, now packing a 4,700mAh battery compared to its predecessor’s 4,575mAh. Charging speeds have also improved slightly. The phone can reach 55% charge in 30 minutes using a 45W USB-PD charger. That’s a slight increase over last year’s model, which reached 50% in the same time frame.
Availability and Pricing
The Google Pixel 9 is now available for pre-order in the US and Europe. Details for the Indian market are expected to be announced soon. As an incentive, Google is offering a free storage upgrade for pre-orders, allowing customers to get the 256GB model for the price of the 128GB version.
The Pixel 9 comes in four colors: Porcelain, Peony, Wintergreen, and Obsidian. The device features an aluminum mid-frame with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back. It also has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.
In the US, the Pixel 9 starts at $800 for the 128GB model and $900 for the 256GB version. In the UK, those prices are £800 and £900 respectively, while in the EU, the 128GB model costs €900 and the 256GB version costs €1,000. The device will start shipping on August 22.