- Tech Wire Asia reviews the Google Pixel 9.
- Offers a sleek design, dependable battery life, and solid cameras.
Google’s Pixel lineup has evolved to include a number of models, starting with the base Pixel, the Pro variations, and, most recently, the Pro Fold model.
The Pixel 9 is the latest addition to Google’s flagship series, offering some enhancements and retaining core strengths. Released alongside Android 15, the device combines refined hardware and software to deliver a compelling user experience. However, while the Pixel 9 stands out in many ways, it faces strong competition from the rest of its own lineup, particularly the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL.
Tech Wire Asia had the opportunity to review the Pixel 9. Here’s a closer look at the strengths and limitations of this year’s base model.
Design and build: Sleek but imperfect
The Pixel 9 introduces subtle yet impactful design refinements to the lineup. Its flatter profile and grippable frame make it comfortable to hold, with improved ergonomics compared to its predecessor. The return to uniform bezels around the display adds to its sleek, symmetrical appearance, appealing to users who value minimalist aesthetics.
However, the glossy backplate detracts from the overall premium feel, especially when compared to the polished matte finishes found on competing smartphones. The addition of more premium case options from third-party manufacturers would enhance protection without sacrificing style — a demand we hope Google addresses in the future.
Display and audio: Bright and balanced
As expected, the Pixel 9 continues Google’s tradition of delivering excellent displays. The screen’s better brightness ensures usability in a variety of lighting conditions, including direct sunlight. While the overall quality is not a significant leap from the Pixel 8, the display remains one of the device’s best qualities.
The audio experience has also improved, with speakers delivering richer sound. However, the maximum volume could benefit from a further boost to match the immersive quality of other flagship devices. The multimedia experience, when combined with the responsive haptics, is one of the phone’s highlight.
Pixel 9 in action (Source – Google)
Performance: Reliable but not groundbreaking
The Pixel 9 is powered by Google’s Tensor G4 processor, which brings minor but effective improvements in performance and thermal management. With an additional four gigabytes of RAM compared to the Pixel 8, the device feels noticeably more responsive during daily use, easily handling multitasking and routine tasks.
That said, the use of UFS 3.1 storage creates a bottleneck, particularly when switching between apps or transferring data. Faster storage technology could have significantly boosted the device’s overall responsiveness. While the Pixel 9 is not designed for heavy gaming or benchmarking, it performs adequately for everyday tasks, showcasing Google’s focus on optimisation rather than raw processing power.
Camera: Reliable but limited
The Pixel 9 continues to excel in photography, capturing sharp, vibrant, and detailed images thanks to its dual-camera configuration. Edge detection in portrait mode has improved with updates, while the Magic Editor feature allows users to make meaningful post-capture adjustments, such as removing unwanted elements from photos. The Google Camera app continues to be a market leader.
However, the absence of a telephoto lens limits the camera’s versatility, especially for users accustomed to optical zoom. While Google’s computational photography algorithms compensate to some extent, a specialised telephoto lens would have added value to the camera system.
Furthermore, the difference between what is shown in the viewfinder and the final processed image remains a concern, particularly in modes such as portrait photography.
Battery life: A reliable companion
The Pixel 9’s battery life has improved following the Android 15 update. Previously, users could deplete the battery in a day, but power management improvements have extended its endurance to keep up with other smartphones in its class. While these changes are not groundbreaking, they make the Pixel 9 a more dependable choice for daily use.
Charging speed, however, remains an area for improvement. Faster charging would significantly enhance the overall user experience. Users who require greater storage, especially for tasks like 4K video recording, will benefit from the 256-gigabyte model, which provides more flexibility without frequent file management.
AI features: Promising but region-locked
One of the Pixel 9’s standout features is its integration of AI tools, such as Gemini and Pixel Screenshots. Pixel Screenshots, in particular, allows users to efficiently search and organise screenshots, saving time and improving productivity. Magic Editor and other AI-powered features add creative flexibility for editing photos and videos.
However, many of these features are region-locked, which diminishes their universal appeal. Tools like Call Notes remain unavailable in certain regions, limiting the Pixel 9’s ability to fully leverage its AI-driven potential. Google needs to address these regional limitations to make the device’s AI capabilities universally attractive.
Pricing and competition: A tough sell
At its recommended retail price of $790, the Pixel 9 positions itself as a premium mid-range device. It provides a well-rounded package but other phones provide more value when it comes to performance and features. Discounts, trade-ins, and rebates make the Pixel 9 more attractive, but it is still outperformed by the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL, which deliver enhanced capabilities with fewer compromises.
The Pixel lineup spans a diverse price range, from about $800 to $1,800, with the goal of catering to a variety of users’ budgets. However, there is a noticeable gap between the $1,200 and $1,800 price points, which could be filled by a Pixel Pro Flip in the future.
Additionally, Google plans to introduce the Pixel 9a in mid-2025, a budget-friendly option that is expected to scale back features to achieve a lower price point and broaden the lineup’s appeal.
Verdict: A solid base model with caveats
The Pixel 9 exemplifies Google’s commitment to refining its flagship lineup. With a strong display, dependable battery life, and reliable cameras, it delivers a well-rounded experience. However, it falls short of its Pro siblings in terms of regional AI availability, storage technology, and overall versatility.
For those looking for a sleek and capable phone, the Pixel 9 delivers. But those willing to spend a little more may find better value in the Pro models.
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As a tech journalist, Zul focuses on topics including cloud computing, cybersecurity, and disruptive technology in the enterprise industry. He has expertise in moderating webinars and presenting content on video, in addition to having a background in networking technology.
