Design and Hardware
The Pixel 9 series features a refined design with brighter screens up to 3,000 nits, even bezels, and a faster ultrasonic fingerprint reader. These enhancements align the phones with flagship standards, offering a more premium feel.
Performance
Powered by the Tensor G4 chip, the Pixel 9 series excels in AI-driven tasks rather than raw performance. The new NPU and additional RAM enhance AI features, though everyday performance remains similar to last year’s models.
Camera Quality
The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro share primary and ultra-wide cameras, with the Pro adding a 5X telephoto lens. Photos are highly processed, offering lots of HDR and contrast, which is ideal for social media but less natural. The Pro’s selfie camera also sees notable improvements.
Battery and Charging
Battery life is solid, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL providing over five hours of screen-on time. However, charging speeds are slow, maxing out at 37 watts, which could be a drawback for some users.
Software Experience
Running on Android 14, the Pixel 9 series includes unique features like Call Screening, Now Playing, and the new Call Notes. It’s also among the first devices expected to receive Android 15.
Gemini Assistant and AI Features
Gemini, Google's new AI assistant, offers conversational interactions and context-aware responses. While it coexists with the older Google Assistant, which might be confusing, the Pixel 9 series introduces several AI-driven features like Call Notes, Video Boost, and Add Me, showcasing Google's commitment to innovation. However, some features may feel more gimmicky than useful.
Design Details and Pricing
The new camera visor design is visually appealing but may be prone to collecting dust. The Pixel 9 Pro offers a matte back with glossy sides, while the standard Pixel 9 has matte sides with a glossy back. Starting at ₹79,999 in India, the Pixel 9 series delivers premium features but at a higher price point, with the base model disappointingly starting at just 128GB of storage, which might feel limited in 2024.
Overall Impression
The Pixel 9 series offers notable improvements, especially in AI and camera performance. However, some design and feature updates may seem more incremental than groundbreaking. The Pixel 9 Pro XL stands out as a solid choice for those seeking a premium Android experience.