Google recently unveiled its latest flagships, the Pixel 9 Pro and its bigger brother, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which are said to pave the way for AI phones of the future. Both models bring top-of-the-line hardware that finally overcomes the shortcomings of previous generations, while incorporating a host of AI-based features. But does AI already fully justify its place in these devices today? We've compiled an overview of what experts from various media outlets and popular YouTubers are saying and what their impressions of these devices are.
When we talk about smartphones that combine the latest hardware and artificial intelligence, the Google Pixel 9 Pro and its bigger brother, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, definitely find themselves in the limelight. With these two models, Google not only continues its tradition of producing top-notch smartphones, but also hints at a future in which AI will play a key role in our everyday lives. But do these devices really live up to their lofty expectations, especially in terms of AI integration? Below, we'll explore how the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL perform in practice, what experts and influencers are saying about them, and which features stand out - both positively and negatively. Get ready for a detailed analysis of phones that have great promise but still face some future challenges.
Last Updated 2024-08-21 / Affiliate Links / Photo Source: Amazon Product Advertising API
Design and hardware
"Google has finally hit the nail on the head with hardware." —Allison Johnson, The Verge (resource)
The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL have received many accolades for their quality design and build. Allison Johnson of The Verge pointed out that these are finally phones that stay in the hand and have flat edges, which improves the feeling during use. According to her, the phones act as the culmination of Google's flagship vision, with screens that shine brighter than ever, edges that are flush, and most importantly - "they finally mended the edges", which critics have long demanded (resource).
Similarly, YouTuber MKBHD (Marques Brownlee) also praised the Pixel 9 Pro for its design. "These phones are extremely well made, the feel in the hand is unique, we finally got flat edges that give the phone a more premium feel." Brownlee also pointed out that the new "visor" design of the camera, despite its visibility, allows stable placement of the phone on flat surfaces, which in the past caused problems with other devices (resource).
Display and performance
"The screens are slightly brighter than the previous generation, which is noticeable especially in direct sunlight." – Max Weinbach, 9to5Google (resource)
Both models, the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL, boast displays that are significantly brighter than previous generations, which is crucial for using the phone in bright sunlight. 9to5Google's Max Weinbach specifically pointed out that these displays are now capable of up to 2,000 nits of brightness in HDR mode, and even 3,000 nits in peak brightness mode. For comparison, the previous generation, the Pixel 8 Pro, reached a maximum of 2400 nits in the same mode. This means that you'll be able to read the content on the screen more easily in direct sunlight, a critical feature for users who spend a lot of time outdoors. Weinbach notes that the Pixel 9 Pro's screens still don't match the brightness of Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra, but they're still a significant improvement over previous models (resource).
YouTuber Unbox Therapy (Lewis Hilsenteger) also highlighted the display quality and performance of the new Tensor G4 chipset. “Pixel 9 Pro delivers incredibly bright screens that perform perfectly even in the strongest light. The new processor ensures that the phone runs smoothly and without overheating, even during the most demanding tasks." (resource)
Camera and AI features
“Cameras remain reliable, but AI features are patchy.” – Michael Fisher, MrMobile (resource)
Cameras are one of the key selling points of the Pixel series, which is confirmed this time as well. Michael Fisher aka MrMobile points out that the main and telephoto cameras remain the same as the Pixel 8 Pro. But the ultra-wide-angle camera has been upgraded with a new lens, which improves performance in low-light conditions, especially for night photography (resource). Pixel phones have traditionally been known for their exceptional low-light performance, and the Pixel 9 Pro is no exception.
YouTuber Linus Tech Tips (Linus Sebastian) is particularly excited about the new AI feature “Video Boost,” which improves videos shot in low-light conditions. “Video Boost on the Pixel 9 Pro makes night shots incredibly clear and full of detail. It's a feature I'll definitely be using a lot, as it cleans up shots at higher zooms and transitions smoothly between different lenses.” (resource)
User experience and AI integration
“AI everywhere, but not the same everywhere.” – Dieter Bohn, The Verge (resource)
Google has packed the Pixel 9 Pro with a variety of AI features that are integrated into many aspects of the user experience, from the Gemini Assistant to new features such as a screenshot app that uses artificial intelligence to analyze and store data. Dieter Bohn of The Verge warns that this integration is still incomplete. Despite Google heavily promoting the Pixel as the first true AI phone, various features are separated by apps and interfaces, confusing users (resource).
YouTuber Dave Lee (Dave2D) is critical of the inconsistency of the AI features present on the Pixel 9 Pro. “Gemini Assistant and the AI tools in the Pixel are powerful, but not quite ready for completely reliable day-to-day use. While some features are incredibly useful, like smart screenshot search, others feel disjointed and irrelevant.” (resource)
Battery and durability
"Both models last a full day of intensive use without needing to be recharged." – David Ruddock, Android Police (resource)
Photo: GoogleOne of the key improvements in the new Pixels is battery life. Android Police's David Ruddock praised the durability of the batteries, which easily last a full day even with more demanding use. This is especially important for users who rely on their phones to get them through the day, without the need for extra chargers or batteries (resource).
YouTuber Mrwhosetheboss (Arun Maini) also pointed out that both models charge quickly despite the size of the battery, which is crucial for modern users. "Charging is fast and efficient, which means that even after intensive use, you will quickly be ready for new challenges again. The Pixel 9 Pro is a truly reliable partner for all-day work.” (resource)
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL are devices that clearly show Google's ambitions towards AI-focused phones, but some aspects seem to be still in development. While the hardware is undoubtedly impressive and a step up from previous generations, the AI features are sometimes patchy and not always entirely useful. Nevertheless, with exceptional build quality, improved display technology and a long software support period (seven years), these phones represent real value for those looking for a premium experience.
It's important that Google continues to improve its AI features, as this will be key to the future of the Pixel line and the wider smartphone industry. Right now, though, the best part of these devices seems to lie in their excellent hardware, putting them alongside the best phones like the Galaxy S24 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro. As YouTuber MKBHD summed it up: "While the AI isn't quite perfect yet, it's the hardware that makes the Pixel 9 Pro a premium phone that deserves its place among the best." (resource).
Last Updated 2024-08-21 / Affiliate Links / Photo Source: Amazon Product Advertising API
For those who are passionate about photography and videography and are looking for a phone that can keep up with their dynamic lifestyle, the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL offer an exceptional experience. Still, it's clear that AI is the future and we'll have to wait for Google to fully perfect these features before they become an indispensable part of our everyday lives.
“The future of AI phones is still unpredictable, but it's clear that the Pixel 9 Pro sets the stage for that future. While AI is everywhere at the moment, it's not implemented equally well everywhere, but the hardware ensures that this is one of the best phones on the market.” concludes Dave Lee (resource).
