Google has recently launched the Pixel 9, positioning it as a premium smartphone at a more affordable price. Retailing at £799 (€899/$799/A$1,349), it is £200 cheaper than the high-end Pixel 9 Pro, aiming to compete with other major players like the iPhone 16 and Samsung Galaxy S24.
The design of the Pixel 9 mirrors that of its Pro counterpart, featuring elegant aluminum edges and a glass front and back. Its 6.3-inch OLED display offers a vibrant visual experience, though it’s not quite as sharp or bright as the Pro version.
Under the hood, the Pixel 9 is equipped with the Tensor G4 chip, accompanied by 128GB of storage and 12GB of RAM. While it falls short of the Pro model’s 16GB of RAM, it still delivers smooth daily performance without any noticeable lag in apps or AI functionalities.
Battery life is one of the standout features of the Pixel 9, boasting around two days on a single charge and a full recharge in just over 80 minutes with an appropriate charger. However, it’s important to note that Google does not include a charger in the box.
Running on Android 14, the Pixel 9 promises an impressive seven years of software support, making it one of the most enduring smartphones available. It also incorporates Google’s advanced AI capabilities, including the Gemini Nano models. While it features the new Screenshots app and Pixel Studio for enhanced image management and creation, it does not come with a subscription to Google’s Gemini Advanced, limiting access to some premium AI functionalities.
When it comes to photography, the Pixel 9 sports a dual-camera system with a 50MP main lens and a 48MP ultrawide lens, though it lacks a telephoto option. The main camera excels in various lighting conditions, but the absence of a zoom lens does limit its versatility. The 10.5MP selfie camera, however, holds up well.
A unique offering is the “Add Me” feature, which utilizes augmented reality to help integrate photographers into group shots, although the results can vary depending on the complexity of the scene.
From a sustainability standpoint, the Pixel 9 is made with at least 20% recycled materials, and Google has introduced recycling options for the device. They also provide repair alternatives and access to replacement parts through services like iFixit.
In summary, while the Pixel 9 stands out as an impressive flagship without the Pro label, its lack of a telephoto camera and top-tier AI features puts it at a disadvantage compared to the more equipped Pixel 9 Pro and the budget-friendly Pixel 8a. Potential buyers might want to consider waiting for a sale to maximize its value.
**Pros:** Seven years of software updates, great camera quality, vibrant display, strong battery life, sustainable materials, and impressive AI features.
**Cons:** No zoom camera, less secure face unlock compared to Face ID, raw performance isn’t top-tier, and its value proposition may not be the strongest at its current price.
