Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL Review

Introduction

• Complicated relationship with Google Pixel phones
• Special software but plagued with issues
• New Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL have much to prove

Unboxing and Build Quality

• Presentation: Pretty but empty box (phone, cable, SIM ejector)
• Best-built Pixel ever
  • Similar dimensions and feel to iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • Grippier sides, classy look with even screen bezels
  • Very solid construction, no flex
  • Passed Jerry rig durability test

Design and Cases

• New case design: Soft, fingerprint resistant, and precise cutouts
  • Features felt inside, metal logo, and buttons

Performance and Software

• Improved optical fingerprint scanner replaced with ultrasonic scanner
• Signal strength: Good performance on patchy routes
• Smooth user experience with no bugs
  • Best stability in Pixel launch history
• Battery life: 6.5 hours (Pro), 7 hours (Pro XL)
  • Control over overheating issues with a vapor chamber

Processor and Gaming

• New Tensor G4 chip: Still slower than competitors
  • Performance lags behind Samsung/Apple
• AI tasks sped up by 50% due to increased RAM (16GB)
• Gaming performance better than expected, capable of max settings

AI Features

• Mixed results with new AI features
  • "Ad Me" for group shots: Technically impressive but less practical
  • New Pixel Studio app: Lacks functionality and feels limited
  • Gemini AI assistant: More intelligent but limited app interaction
  • Magic Editor: Impressive zoom-out feature

Camera System

• Rear camera hardware similar to last year's model
  • Good color reproduction, HDR capabilities
  • Night mode and portrait mode improvements, but still some issues
• Front camera: 42MP, allows for super wide shots
• New video features:
  • Video boost for enhanced post-processing
  • AI-generated details in zoomed shots
• Panorama mode: Best in class for seamless stitching

Conclusion

• Pixel 9 Pro is a significant improvement over past models
  • Addresses 70% of previous issues
  • Classic Google perks (long updates, software)
• Key Cons:
  • High price for XL model (starts at $1,200)
  • Still not as fast as competitors

Charging Technology

• Anchor Prime charging station: 250 watts output
  • Charges multiple devices at full speed
  • Offers interactive charging display and additional charging options