Hold on to your wallets, folks, because Google's recent price leak for the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL is… confusing. According to a recently leaked listing from T-Mobile, the Pixel 9 Pro starts at $999.99, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL will go up to a whopping $1,199.99. If you're scratching your head and thinking that this isn't much different than the $999 price of the Pixel 8 Pro, there's a catch. Here's the catch: the Pixel 9 Prois not the direct successor to the 6.7-inch Pixel 8 Pro with its smaller 6.3-inch screen. This role goes to the Pixel 9 Prowhich is rumored to feature a 6.8-inch display. That means you'll have to shell out an extra $200 for the true successor to last year's model.
Interestingly, the Pixel 9 Pro The new model is rumored to come with 256GB of storage, which is an increase from previous models that started with 128GB. Google may feel that more storage, a slightly larger screen, and fancy AI can justify the price increase.
But is that enough to make us part with our hard-earned money?
Can AI bling justify a price increase?
Photo credit – PhoneArena
Additionally, not everyone will use all of these features. I discussed which ones I would like to use, and only one or two of what Google offers stood out to me.
While AI advancements (especially photo magic) sound exciting, for many people they may not be enough to justify the steep price increase. Let's face it – AI is cool, but it's not always the deciding factor that makes us rush to upgrade our phones. Many users still prefer tangible improvements like a better camera, longer battery life, and innovative design over incremental AI improvements.
In addition, Google no longer offers physical pre-order gifts (like a Pixel Watch 2 or Pixel Buds Pro for the Pixel 8 Pro) foregoing digital perks like 12 months of Google One AI Premium for Gemini Advanced may not be for everyone. Digital freebies are nice, but they don't offer the same immediate, tangible value as a physical item. This change could dampen enthusiasm during the pre-order period…
How big is the upgrade exactly on the Pixel 9 Pro XL?
Photo credit – OnLeaks
The Pixel 9 Pro is the direct successor of the Pixel 8 Proalthough Google doesn't want you to think that. However, facts are facts, no matter what you call them. So don't be fooled by that “XL” there. The Pixel 8 Pro comes with a 6.7-inch screen, and the Pixel 9 Pro As mentioned earlier, the device is rumored to have a 6.8-inch screen. I can't call this a huge upgrade, but more of a reduction in bezels and a tiny increase in screen area.
We have the Tensor G4 chip, which performs more like the G3. I've argued that the lack of a speed boost isn't a big deal, but when it comes to price, I cringe. Yes, it's not a big deal because phones are fast anyway, but is Google trying to sell me yesterday's technology for more money? That's not how it's supposed to work.
We also get a design refresh. I like the flat edges better and the phone looks more modern, so I'll give that to Google. But the redesign isn't huge, and we're talking about $200 here.
I would expect at least a camera upgrade. But rumors suggest that the 9 Pro XL will get the same cameras as the Pixel 8 Pro: a 50MP main lens, a 48MP ultra-wide-angle lens and a 48MP telephoto lens. The selfie camera has been upgraded from 10.5MP to 42MP. Is that enough for you?
I mean, these updates are great. But aren't they to be expected with the release of a new phone anyway? Shouldn't we get something new every year that justifies an upgrade from previous models? We do. And Google provides it. But… for $200 more? This is what I don't like.
Yes, it looks like it's hard to sell
Pixel 9 Pro XL (render) vs. Pixel 8 Pro. | Image credit – PhoneArena”
In my opinion, Google may be shooting itself in the foot with this pricing strategy. The significant price increase for the Pixel 9 Proalong with the emphasis on AI and digital advantages, doesn't seem to be enough to attract people. The smartphone market is incredibly competitive and we have tons of options to choose from. Samsung has AI features too, Chinese companies are always looking for the next big thing and rumors say the iPhone 16 Pro Max will actually be innovative. If Google wants to stand out, it needs to offer more than just incremental AI improvements and more storage. That Pixel 9 Pro The series needs to deliver tangible, exciting upgrades that make us feel like we're really getting something for our money. Otherwise, Google risks losing ground in a market where every little edge counts.
Overall, I know that AI is undoubtedly the future. However, Google’s new prices for AI are Pixel 9 Pro may not be the best move. Only time will tell if Google's gamble pays off, but at the moment it seems like a risky move to me.