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The Google Pixel 9 Pro marks a significant shift in Google's flagship smartphone lineup, emphasizing a more compact design and advanced AI capabilities while maintaining its reputation as a top-tier camera phone. With a more manageable size and an array of intelligent features, the Pixel 9 Pro aims to stand out in a crowded market of premium smartphones.
A Compact Design for the Pro Series
For the first time in Google's Pixel lineup, the Pro model adopts a more compact form factor. Measuring 6 x 2.8 x 0.3 inches, the Pixel 9 Pro is the same size as the standard Pixel 9, a response to user demand for a smaller, high-end phone. Weighing in at 7 ounces, the Pixel 9 Pro feels substantial in hand, thanks to its matte glass back and polished metal frame.
The signature camera bar, a defining feature of the Pixel series, has also undergone a redesign. It now features rounded edges, stopping just short of the phone's sides, giving the device a unique look that prevents it from wobbling when placed on a flat surface. Available in four colors—Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, and Rose Quartz—the Pixel 9 Pro offers a range of aesthetic options, though some might find the color palette a bit predictable.
A Super Bright Display with Impressive Clarity
The Pixel 9 Pro boasts a 6.3-inch Super Actua OLED display, offering sharper resolution and a more variable refresh rate compared to its non-Pro counterpart. The display can scale from 1Hz to 120Hz, adjusting to on-screen activity to provide smoother visuals and better battery efficiency.
One of the standout features of this display is its brightness. Google claims a peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits, and while our tests didn't quite reach that figure, we recorded an impressive 1,938 nits in SDR mode. This level of brightness outshines competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus and the iPhone 15 Pro, making the Pixel 9 Pro's screen exceptionally easy to view even in bright conditions.
While the color reproduction is slightly less vibrant than Samsung's offerings, the Pixel 9 Pro still delivers accurate and vivid colors, with a Delta-E rating of 0.24, indicating highly precise color accuracy.
Camera Performance: Consistently Impressive with New Tweaks
Google's Pixel phones have always been known for their camera prowess, and the Pixel 9 Pro is no exception. While the hardware remains largely unchanged from the Pixel 8 Pro, there are some key improvements. The 48MP ultrawide camera now includes a Macro Focus feature, and the front-facing camera has been upgraded to a 42MP sensor, delivering sharper selfies.
The main camera is a 50MP shooter, complemented by a 48MP telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom and up to 30x digital zoom with Super Res Zoom. The results are as impressive as ever, with the Pixel 9 Pro producing well-balanced, detailed images across various lighting conditions.
In comparisons with the iPhone 15 Pro, the Pixel 9 Pro often displayed superior color accuracy and better handling of shadows. However, the iPhone sometimes captured more detail, particularly in bright conditions.
AI-Powered Photography: New Features and Continued Innovation
The Pixel 9 Pro continues to leverage Google's expertise in AI to enhance its photography capabilities. Tools like Magic Editor and Best Take return, now with additional features like Add Me and Reimagine.
The Add Me feature allows users to insert themselves into group photos, even after the fact, by taking a second photo with the original photographer in the frame. While the results can vary depending on the photographer's skill, this feature represents a novel approach to solving a common problem.
Reimagine, an extension of Magic Editor, lets users apply AI-driven edits using text prompts. Whether it's changing the color of water or adding a sun flare, this tool offers creative possibilities, though it may not always produce the most realistic results.
Performance: A Solid Performer with Some Limitations
Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro is powered by Google's Tensor G4 chip, paired with 16GB of RAM. While the device handles most tasks with ease, it trails behind other flagship phones in raw performance benchmarks. This may be a consideration for users looking for the absolute fastest phone on the market.
Battery Life: An Improvement Over Previous Models
Battery life has always been a concern for Pixel users, but the Pixel 9 Pro makes strides in this area. With a 4,700 mAh battery, the phone easily lasts through a full day of use, outpacing its predecessors. Fast charging and wireless charging capabilities are also included, making it convenient to top up the battery as needed.
Conclusion: A Smart, Compact Flagship with Room for Growth
The Google Pixel 9 Pro is a compelling choice for users who value a compact design and advanced AI features. Its camera performance remains among the best in the industry, and the new AI-powered tools offer exciting possibilities for creative photography. However, the Pixel 9 Pro's performance doesn't quite match the top-tier competition, and some AI features still feel like works in progress.
For those who prioritize camera quality, innovative features, and a more manageable phone size, the Pixel 9 Pro is a strong contender. But for users seeking the fastest performance available, it might be worth considering other options. Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro represents a significant step forward in Google's flagship lineup, blending intelligent design with cutting-edge technology.