Google recently hosted its Pixel 9 event, and we have some reflections to share. Here they are:
An August Launch Makes a Significant Impact
The Pixel 8 series was revealed on October 4, 2023, while the Pixel 7 series debuted on October 7, 2022. This time, Google showcased a wider array of devices in mid-August—quite an achievement!
Shifting the launch from early autumn to the height of summer alters the entire launch dynamic, positioning the Pixel 9 series as an appealing option for summer vacation photography—a major opportunity for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, Google’s phones are now hitting the market a full month ahead of Apple’s iPhones.
We Appreciate the New Flat Design
Flat designs are becoming the trend in the smartphone world. Apple initiated this shift a few years back, followed by Samsung with its Galaxy S23 series, and now Google has adopted a flatter aesthetic for the Pixel.
We’re fond of the new look of the Pixels, which feature slightly rounded corners for a more comfortable grip, making them feel less boxy.
A flat design also reduces the likelihood of damage from drops and simplifies the application of glass protectors. Plus, the flat edges enhance the usability of the volume controls.
A Request for Matte Finishes Next Year
The Pixel 9 Pro’s polished metal frame is a magnet for fingerprints, rivaling even the glossiest piano black car trims. While the Pro models have a frosted finish, the standard Pixel 9’s glossy rear glass panel quickly becomes smudged.
We urge Google to take cues from the iPhone 15 and Galaxy S24 Ultra and opt for matte finishes across the board next time—please and thank you!
The Compact Pixel 9 Pro: A Bold Move—But Will It Succeed?
The introduction of the smaller Pixel 9 Pro is arguably the standout feature of the event. Many users prefer a compact phone without sacrificing performance.
However, sales data indicates a strong preference for larger displays, likely driven by current multimedia consumption trends. This could pose challenges for the Pixel 9 Pro in the market.
Compounding this issue, Google is releasing the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL just a week after the launch, while the Pixel 9 Pro won’t be available until September, further complicating its market prospects.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Mature Foldable in Its Second Generation
Following the somewhat underwhelming original Pixel Fold, we were pleasantly surprised by the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Google made several smart choices with this new book-style foldable, including larger screens, a natural 20:9 aspect ratio for the cover screen, a slim profile, and a robust camera system.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold may even give the Galaxy Z Fold6 a reason to look over its shoulder, boasting superior displays, better cameras, and more RAM—not bad for a company often critiqued for its conservative hardware upgrades!
The Pixel 9 Pro XL: A Thoughtful, Safe Upgrade
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is set to be the flagship model for good reason. It offers the largest display and the best camera, making it the top choice for Pixel enthusiasts.
Google has significantly improved this premier flagship, enhancing the camera system with a brighter ultrawide lens and a new, wider-angle selfie camera. It also features the latest chipset upgrade and a more refined design, particularly on the back.
The New Ultrasonic Fingerprint Scanner is a Game Changer
One subtle yet impactful change in the Pixel 9 devices is the switch to an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner.
Previously, Pixel phones utilized optical scanners that relied on light, which often disappointed users in terms of responsiveness and reliability, especially with screen protectors.
Qualcomm’s ultrasonic technology is a significant upgrade, functioning well in low light and offering faster, more dependable performance.
The Pixel 9 Isn’t as Compact as You Might Think
We’ve received a Pixel 9 for review and found that it doesn’t feel as small as anticipated.
When compared to the Pixel 9 Pro XL, the smaller Pixel does feel more compact, but it lacks the impressively compact sensation of the Pixel 8. It’s 11 grams heavier and, more importantly, 1.2mm wider and 2.3mm taller. With a case, it becomes a thicker, heavier device that is only slightly more compact than the larger models available.
Read More:iphone-16-cameras-release-date/