The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro XL versions are demonstrating a robust commencement.
The latest Pixel 9 handsets boast robust hardware and intriguing new AI functionalities. Although Google rush-released them prior to the iPhones launch, not all aspects could be fully tested due to their early debut. However, the functionalities that are already operational are quite impressive.
To gain an edge over Apple, Google unveiled its new smartphones earlier than usual in August this year, rather than October. Despite this, they run on Android 14 instead of 15 since the software development schedule remained unchanged. Some AI capabilities are still under development or not available in Germany yet. Regardless, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL have left a strong impact in practical tests, hinting at their true potential.
Effective Design
The revamped design of the devices is successful. By adopting a more angular frame, they fit comfortably in hand, and the new pill-shaped camera module on the back looks appealing. However, its protrusion may be a hassle for your pocket's hem.
Google introduced a Mini version for the first time, which ntv.de has not yet tested. However, it primarily focuses on battery life, as the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL differ only in battery capacity.
Larger Display
The Pixel 9 measures slightly larger than its predecessor due to the screen increasing from 6.2 to 6.3 inches. Despite this, it remains one of the most compact smartphones available. At 198 grams, it is not lightweight.
The OLED screen boasts a high resolution of 422 pixels per inch (ppi) and can get significantly brighter than the panel of the predecessor when required. It maintains its prior refresh rates of 60 to 120 Hertz (Hz), offering excellent contrast and colors.
Significant Camera Update for the Pixel 9
A notable improvement is that the standard Pixel now features the same main camera as the Pros, along with their 48-megapixel (MP) ultra-wide camera. This upgrade enables the 9er to capture macro shots, which appear impressive. The 10.5 MP front camera now includes autofocus instead of fixed focus.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is only slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor, weighing 221 grams. Apart from this, no significant changes have been made, with the battery capacity remaining almost unchanged.
Consistent High Photo and Video Quality
Photos and videos retain their high quality from the predecessor, which the standard Pixel can now achieve using the main and ultra-wide cameras. The two Pro models benefit from the 48 MP telephoto camera with fivefold optical zoom, which functions exceptionally well.
The new devices stand out from their predecessors thanks to Google's new Tensor G4 chip, enabling more capable AI models. Although the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL have not yet showcased all the offered features at their launch, their new camera tricks have already proven impressive and enjoyable in practical tests.
No Need for a Photographer for Group Photos
The standout feature is "Add Me." You no longer require help from others for group photos, as you can now take a photo, hand your phone to someone else, and position yourself. The person snapping the second photo will receive visual cues on the display to perfectly fit you in. The Pixel 9 then produces an excellent group photo spectacularly. This feature worked so well during testing that it was almost indistinguishable from an edit.
Google's AI laboratory has introduced the ability to generate a new image crop. This even incorporates areas not photographed but captured by the camera's pixels.
It's now effortless to include "cut-off" feet in the picture or convert a landscape to a portrait. This feature worked well during testing as well. And, as before, you can still move, delete, or resize elements.
Prompts for Beginners
It's now possible to guide the AI image editing process by selecting an object or photo area and specifying changes desired. This should not be overly complex; for instance, Gemini can replace a remote control with a wooden ruler.
Regarding Gemini, Google's ChatGPT competitor replaces the pre-existing digital assistant. However, the AI is still in its development stage, so the old digital assistant takes over certain tasks. Many features also require a Gemini Live subscription, which Pixel 9 buyers can try out for free for a year, enabling them to interact naturally with the assistant, akin to ChatGPT.
Screenshots become More Practical
Some handy AI features are free but exclusively available in English. This includes the new Google Screenshots app, which sorts and organizes saved screenshots by content and creates collections. This feature proved effective during testing, particularly for screenshots with visible text.
To have text on a screenshot read out loud, you don't require the app. Instead, you can access this feature within the photo gallery by long-pressing the power button to call Gemini and ask the AI assistant for the text content. It can also translate it into another language. How convenient!
Always Ready Gemini
You can essentially always summon Gemini to obtain information about screen content, even during YouTube video playback. During testing, ntv.de could swiftly display a recipe list for a cooking tutorial in this manner.
The 9 Pixel comes with a revamped weather app that looks good, is customizable, and displays extensive information. It also offers a KI-generated weather report with a daily overview. However, the additional benefit over standard summaries is limited.
Unfortunately, there's currently no alternative new app available on the German Google Play Store that's similar to Pixel Studio. This app allows users to produce visuals using text inputs (prompts). Due to its intricacy, Gemini necessitates the aid of a cloud-based model for operation. Google has yet to reveal when Pixel Studio will be accessible in Germany.
Conclusion
Even though not all AI capabilities are available yet, Google is making an impressive debut with the Pixel 9 series of devices. The existing functionalities are impressive and provide a hint of what's to come. It will be intriguing to see how Apple responds with its new iPhones in a few weeks, which also initially come with restricted AI capabilities.
The hardware of the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro XL is robust, though it doesn't offer much that's innovative compared to its predecessors. Individuals who don't require a telephoto camera can save money with the Pixel 9, which retails for 900 euros. Thanks to the upgrade of the ultra-wide-angle camera, it virtually matches the capabilities of the Pixel 9 Pro, which costs 200 euros more. The at least 1200 euro XL remains the top choice for those seeking a large display.
The 8s are also worth considering. Although they won't receive all the new AI features, they'll get the majority of them. Plus, Google guarantees seven years of Android updates, ensuring the devices will remain contemporary for an extended period.
The new features in the Pixel 9 series, although not fully tested due to their early release, can provide a competitive edge over other devices in the market. This is where other AI models and functionalities come into play, which are still under development or not available in certain regions yet.
Despite some features being exclusive to certain regions or requiring subscription, the Pixel 9 series offers impressive AI capabilities, such as the "Add Me" feature for group photos, the new Google Screenshots app, and the ability to summon Gemini for information during YouTube video playback. These features, when fully available and refined, could potentially differentiate the Pixel 9 series from its competitors.
