In a smartphone market dominated by Apple and Samsung, it's really hard to find a device that can shake the long-standing loyalty of iPhone or Galaxy users. But Google is proving persistently that it won't go down without a fight. With the launch of the Pixel 9 Pro XL, they've upped their ambitions and shown they're ready to become a serious challenger – perhaps even a phone that would make us question our technological allegiances.
Pixel 9 Pro XL it does not disappoint, at least on paper. Massive 6.8 inch screen with brightness that can compete with the summer sun, artificial intelligence that promises to completely change our photography experience, and the promise of long-term updates - as much as 7 years. But the question arises - is this enough to really give up my beloved iPhone?
After a month (a day or so more) of intensive use of this technological behemoth, it's time to find out if it is Pixel 9 Pro XL really lived up to its reputation and is worth a pass. Get ready for an in-depth analysis of everything this phone has to offer - and where it might shake the ground.
Design and Display: Premium feel
Pixel 9 Pro XL it doesn't revolutionize the design, but it does boast some thoughtful improvements. The 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display with a stunning 3000 nits brightness surpasses competitors such as the iPhone 16 and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. The screen is crystal clear even in direct sunlight, making it one of the best on the market.
The screen is really good! The brightness is almost a record.
When I put it next to my current one iPhone 15 Pro Max, it is practically an identical design, and from this point of view it is clear that Google is targeting users of the largest iPhone with its premium model. The feeling in the hand is similar to Swedish minimalism - everything is elegant and polished, without unnecessary accessories. With a new oval and slightly more convex camera module, the phone gets a recognizable identity that reflects the Google Pixel series. The back is covered with frosted Gorilla Glass Glass Victus 2, which looks nice, but quickly gets dirty with fingerprints. The frame is made of polished aluminum, which gives the phone a premium look, but it also makes it a bit more slippery.
Regardless of the protection, my phone is fully protected. Original cover, camera protection, screen protection.
I personally like the design. I find the phone more fashionable than the iPhone, more special in its own way. The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes in four stylish colors this year: Obsidian (dark gray), Porcelain (warm white), Hazel (green-brown) and Rose Quartz (light pink). As we are used to with modern premium phones, you will not find a charger in the box, which can confuse many people.
Tensor G4: Powerful, but not a beast
Google has been developing its own chips for years and this year Tensor G4 it brings some upgrades, especially in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). However, it is not the best choice for those looking for the fastest processor on the market. With 10 % faster processing power and 15 % improved graphics compared to its predecessor, the Tensor G4 is good, but not great. Nevertheless, AI functions such as speech recognition and automatic image editing shine to perfection, thanks also to the considerable amount of RAM memory, which is 16 GB.
The Pixel 9 Pro sometimes freezes even during photography, where it heavily processes the “photo” for an otherwise really good result.
For multitasking or gaming, the Pixel 9 Pro XL won't be your first choice. For very demanding tasks like video editing, there is some lag compared to the Snapdragon in the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which can be frustrating for those looking for maximum performance. This will not be visible to the average user. The more demanding ones will notice.
Cameras: Art in every picture, but not in videos
Cameras have always been one of the biggest assets of the Pixel series, and Pixel 9 Pro XL continues this tradition. The triple camera with the main 50 MP lens takes incredibly sharp and vivid photos, especially in low light conditions. A 48 MP ultra-wide-angle camera and a 48 MP telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom deliver exceptional versatility.
New ones AI functions, such as automatically removing unwanted elements from photos, add even more utility as you can process images directly on your phone without the need for additional apps like Lightroom. However, some users find these processed images too artificial, which will confuse purists who appreciate a more natural look to their photos.
I prefer the Pixel 9 Pro for photos, but it falls short for video. Shame!
The personal photography experience was really good. For the first time in a long time, I felt like I could do without photos additional processing I post on social networks. (so no filters, directly in story or post) So this is a big leap forward.
Unfortunately video capabilities they fall slightly behind the iPhone 16 and Galaxy S24 Ultra. While there are noticeable improvements over previous models, the Pixel 9 Pro XL isn't quite at the top when it comes to video recording, but it's getting close to the best.
Battery and charging: Long life
Pixel phones have often fallen short in terms of battery life, but the Pixel 9 Pro XL's 5,060 mAh battery is a significant improvement. It easily lasts a full day of intensive use, which translates to about 9.5 hours of screen time (I measured it myself), which is a significant improvement over previous models.
It charges pretty quickly though. But it's not a record.
Filling with 45 W otherwise, it's not the fastest, especially compared to OnePlus or Xiaomi phones, but it's still fast enough to get you about 70 % charges in 30 minutes – if you buy an extra one, of course Google 45W charger (or use your own or this one …. ), which you will not find in the box.
Ecosystem War - Google Vs. Apple
If you're already deeply embedded in the Google ecosphere—that is, you use Gmail, Google Calendar, Photos, Drive, and the like—then it will Pixel 9 Pro XL excellent choice. With artificial intelligence that will become even more sophisticated in the future, you can expect your phone to help you recognize important messages, manage tasks between different apps and simplify everyday digital life. That's why I'm so tempted by the Pixel, because I believe that in my case, where I have both home and work e-mails and most applications connected to Google, it will be a big plus. On the other hand, Apple still offers its own solutions that work flawlessly and often without the need for user intervention.
Conclusion: Is the Pixel 9 Pro XL for you?
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL it's a great phone for those who appreciate top-notch cameras, powerful AI features, and long battery life. Although it is not the fastest phone on the market, it offers some unique features that make it compete with giants like the iPhone and Samsung. Seven years of support for operating system updates and security patches gives it long-term value.
Pixel 9 Pro XL may be the best alternative for those considering replacing their iPhone, as Google is slowly creating an ecosystem that could seriously compete with Apple. By ecosystem, I'm mainly referring to accessories like the Pixel Buds and the watch. It may not be a phone for everyone, but it's definitely worth a look for AI fans and photography enthusiasts.
The phone is great for the average user and won't miss anything. But when it comes to creators on social networks, at least 2 other phones still reign supreme.
And would I trade it for my iPhone? In a year or two, with the steps it's taking, Google will overtake Apple or come close to it. The biggest competition is actually to brands like Samsung, mainly because of the approach itself, which smells like American technology that comes from Silicon Valley. The product has all the attributes to convince me. But the problem is still being trapped in the ecosystem. Apple currently offers me both a work computer and a multitude of other "Apple devices" that have addicted me in one way or another in recent years. But it is true that for the first time in a long time I thought about changing my phone. Which is already a kind of progress. I change my mind just looking at the price, which is somewhere around 1,400 euros. Which is still a bit too much for my humble taste.
Maybe in a year or two, when Google raises video to iPhone level, I'll reconsider and maybe I pledge technological loyalty to Google.
