Pixel 9 Review Summary

Introduction

• Overview of Pixel phones with new designs, specs, features, and price tags.
• Commentary on the Google event and perception of phones as a software showcase rather than hardware-focused.

Hardware Improvements

• Screen Brightness:
  • Pixel 9: 2,700 nits
  • Pixel 9 Pro: 3,000 nits
• Fingerprint Reader:
  • New ultrasonic reader is faster and more reliable than previous optical versions.
  • Wishes for the ability to unlock without the always-on display.
• Haptics and Buttons:
  • Improved haptics and clicky buttons enhance the user experience.
• Tensor G4 Chip:
  • Similar power to last year’s chip, but with a more powerful NPU focused on AI tasks.
• Design Changes:
  • Squared off sides and new camera visor design.
  • Introduction of a new size option for Pro without being an XL.

Battery Life

• Battery sizes similar to last year:
  • 4,700 mAh for smaller models, 5,000 mAh for larger models.
• Good battery life with 5+ hours of screen on time.
• Slow charging speeds: 37 watts max for XL and slower on smaller models.
• Preference for faster charging options (50-60 watts).

Camera Features

• Shared primary and ultra-wide cameras across Pixel 9 and 9 Pro.
• Primary camera remains similar to previous year; ultra-wide upgraded to 48 MP but still outputs 12 MP photos.
• Photo Quality:
  • Highly processed images with punchy HDR and dynamic range, which may not appeal to all users.
• Selfie Camera:
  • Upgraded on Pro, improved detail and color.
• Video Performance:
  • Good quality, though video also heavily processed.

Software & Features

• Android Version:
  • Launches with Android 14, with expectations for early updates to Android 15 and 7 years of software support.
• Unique Pixel Features:
  • Call screening and now playing features stand out.
  • New features like Call Notes and an updated weather app are introduced.

Gemini Assistant

• Introduction of Gemini as a new assistant alongside Google Assistant.
• Functions well for conversational tasks and context-based questions, but still lacks some basic functionalities that Google Assistant provides.
• Gemini offers more personalization and integration with other Google apps.

AI Features Overview

• Useful AI Features:
  • Gemini, Call Notes, Video Boost, and Add Me (group photo feature).
• Meh Features:
  • Weather summaries, Magic Editor, and Screenshot app (could have been integrated into Photos).
• Gimmicks:
  • Zoom Enhance and Pixel Studio app (more novelty than practical).

Conclusion

• Pixel 9 and 9 Pro are positioned as smart, capable devices with solid hardware and unique AI features.
• Final thoughts on user experience and functionality.

Sponsored Segment

• Anker Prime product lineup, featuring fast chargers and accessories.