The Best Google Phone Yet, But Not Perfect

The 2024 Pixels mark a significant shift from their predecessors, as the Pixel 9 series positions itself as Google’s flagship for the AI era. Unlike compact AI devices such as the Humane Ai Pin or Rabbit r1, the new Pixels serve as an interface to Gemini, Google’s advanced AI model.

- Abhishek Baxi

Pixel 9 Pro XL

₹1,24,999/- (store.google.com)

Inside the Box

✓ Handset

✓ 1 m USB-C to USB-C Cable (USB 2.0)

✓ Sim Tool

The Pixel 9 series boasts a design that diverges from the Pixel 8’s more utilitarian approach. The new models sport a sleeker, more mainstream aesthetic with flattened edges and uniform bezels, reminiscent of the iPhone’s metal side rails. The signature camera visor remains prominent but stable, even with its noticeable protrusion.

Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by the Tensor G4 chip, paired with 16GB of RAM and a new vapor chamber for enhanced thermal management—a welcome upgrade after last year’s heat issues. The display is noticeably brighter, making it easier to view in direct sunlight compared to the Pixel 8 Pro.

For the first time, Google offers the Pro variant in two sizes: a 6.3-inch Pixel 9 Pro and a 6.8-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL. Both variants share the same camera capabilities, though they differ in battery size.