Pixel 9 Pro Review: Stellar Hardware, Forgettable AI
The Pixel 9 Pro has arrived, and it’s a fascinating device. While Google continues to push its AI capabilities, the real star of the show is the phone’s meticulously crafted hardware. In this comprehensive Pixel 9 Pro review, we’ll delve into what makes this phone great, and where it falls short, especially when it comes to those much-hyped AI features. For those who value a premium build and a manageable size, the Pixel 9 Pro is a contender, but is it enough to overshadow the underwhelming AI integration?
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of two sizes for the Pro model. The standard Pixel 9 Pro is now the same size as the base Pixel 9, offering a more pocketable option without sacrificing the “Pro” features. This is a welcome change for users who have long desired a smaller, high-performance Pixel. The larger Pixel 9 Pro XL caters to those who prefer a bigger screen and battery, but the standard model strikes a compelling balance. This new size option addresses a key concern for many users who previously had to choose between portability and advanced features.
Finally, a Pocketable Pro Pixel
The Pixel line has always been known for its software, especially its camera capabilities. However, with the Pixel 9 Pro, Google seems to have shifted focus, at least partially, to the physical design. The smaller size of the standard Pro model is a game-changer. It’s no longer necessary to compromise on ergonomics to get the best features. For users who have always wanted a smaller Pixel with all the bells and whistles, the Pixel 9 Pro is a dream come true. The new size is not just about convenience; it’s about accessibility. It makes the Pro features available to a wider range of users who may have been put off by the larger size of previous models.
Of course, achieving this smaller size required some trade-offs. The Pixel 9 Pro has a slightly smaller battery and a lower-resolution screen compared to the XL model. However, these compromises are arguably worth it for the improved ergonomics. The phone still feels luxurious and performs admirably, making it a compelling option for those who prioritize portability. The reduced battery size is not a deal-breaker for most users, as the phone still offers all-day battery life under normal usage conditions. The slightly lower screen resolution is also barely noticeable, thanks to the excellent display quality.
The Pixel 9 Pro is also remarkably lightweight, weighing in at just 7 ounces. This makes it even more comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. Interestingly, the phone case will also fit the base Pixel 9, which is a neat little bonus. Considering purchasing a new laptop? Check out these top laptop picks for 2025.
The AI Elephant in the Room
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the AI. Google has been heavily promoting the AI capabilities of its Pixel phones, but the Pixel 9 Pro’s AI features are, frankly, underwhelming. While the phone boasts some new AI tricks, they don’t quite live up to the hype. The AI integration feels more like a gimmick than a genuinely useful feature. It’s not that the AI is bad; it’s just not as groundbreaking as Google would have you believe. The AI features are mostly focused on improving the camera and providing some basic assistance with tasks like translation and text summarization. However, these features are not significantly better than what’s already available on other smartphones.
In fact, some of the AI features feel half-baked and buggy. For example, the real-time translation feature is often inaccurate and unreliable. The text summarization feature is also hit-or-miss, sometimes providing useful summaries and other times producing nonsensical gibberish. Overall, the AI experience on the Pixel 9 Pro is disappointing. It’s not a reason to buy the phone, and it’s certainly not a reason to overlook its other flaws. If you’re looking for a phone with truly groundbreaking AI capabilities, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
Camera: Still a Strong Point
Despite the lackluster AI, the Pixel 9 Pro’s camera remains a strong point. Google has consistently delivered excellent camera performance on its Pixel phones, and the Pixel 9 Pro is no exception. The phone features a triple-lens camera system that captures stunning photos and videos in a variety of lighting conditions. The image processing is top-notch, producing vibrant and detailed images with excellent dynamic range. The camera’s low-light performance is also impressive, allowing you to capture clear and bright photos even in dimly lit environments. The Pixel 9 Pro’s camera is a reliable and versatile tool for capturing your memories. The Pixel’s computational photography is still unmatched, providing superior results in challenging scenarios.
The camera app is also well-designed and easy to use. It offers a variety of shooting modes and settings, allowing you to customize your photos and videos to your liking. The app also includes some useful AI-powered features, such as Magic Eraser and Photo Unblur, but these features are not exclusive to the Pixel 9 Pro and are available on older Pixel phones as well. The Pixel 9 Pro’s camera is a testament to Google’s expertise in software and image processing. It’s a feature that continues to set Pixel phones apart from the competition. For users who prioritize camera performance, the Pixel 9 Pro is a solid choice.
Performance and Battery Life
The Pixel 9 Pro is powered by Google’s latest Tensor chip, which provides smooth and responsive performance. The phone handles demanding tasks with ease, whether you’re gaming, streaming videos, or multitasking. The Tensor chip is also optimized for AI tasks, but as mentioned earlier, the AI performance is not particularly impressive. However, the chip’s overall performance is excellent, making the Pixel 9 Pro a pleasure to use. The phone’s performance is comparable to other flagship smartphones, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. Find out more about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra flagship and how it redefines the Android experience.
Battery life is decent, but not exceptional. The Pixel 9 Pro can typically last a full day on a single charge with moderate usage. However, heavy users may need to top up the battery before the end of the day. The smaller battery in the standard Pro model is a trade-off for the smaller size, but it’s not a major issue for most users. The phone also supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly replenish the battery when needed. Google has optimized the software to improve battery efficiency, but the battery life is still not as good as some of its competitors. For users who prioritize battery life, the Pixel 9 Pro XL may be a better option.
Design and Build Quality
The Pixel 9 Pro boasts a sleek and modern design. The phone has a premium feel, thanks to its glass and metal construction. The design is understated and elegant, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. The phone is also comfortable to hold, thanks to its rounded edges and smooth finish. The build quality is excellent, and the phone feels solid and durable. The Pixel 9 Pro is available in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your style. The design is a significant improvement over previous Pixel phones, which were often criticized for their bland and uninspired designs. The Pixel 9 Pro is a phone that looks and feels like a premium device.
The phone also features a water-resistant design, protecting it from accidental spills and splashes. The display is protected by Gorilla Glass, which provides excellent scratch resistance. The Pixel 9 Pro is a phone that’s built to last. The design is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality and durability. Google has paid attention to every detail, creating a phone that’s both beautiful and practical. The Pixel 9 Pro is a testament to Google’s commitment to quality and design. Before you make a purchase, it’s wise to be wary of scams. Learn how to avoid the $1000 voicemail scam and protect your finances.
Software and User Experience
The Pixel 9 Pro runs on the latest version of Android, which is clean, fast, and intuitive. Google’s Android is known for its simplicity and ease of use, and the Pixel 9 Pro is no exception. The phone offers a smooth and responsive user experience, with no lag or stuttering. The software is also highly customizable, allowing you to personalize your phone to your liking. Google provides regular software updates, ensuring that your phone is always up-to-date with the latest features and security patches. The Pixel 9 Pro’s software is a major selling point for many users. It’s a clean and bloatware-free experience that’s a breath of fresh air in the Android world. The Pixel 9 Pro offers a pure Android experience, free from the unnecessary customizations and bloatware that are often found on other Android phones. This makes the phone faster, more reliable, and more enjoyable to use.
The Pixel 9 Pro also features some exclusive software features, such as Call Screen and Now Playing. Call Screen allows you to screen unknown callers, preventing spam and robocalls from bothering you. Now Playing automatically identifies songs that are playing in the background, allowing you to quickly find and listen to your favorite tunes. These features are not essential, but they add to the overall user experience and make the Pixel 9 Pro a more convenient and enjoyable phone to use. For those deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem, remember that you can seamlessly migrate Apple Music playlists to Spotify, offering greater flexibility with your music library.
Conclusion: A Great Phone, Despite the AI
The Pixel 9 Pro is a great phone, but it’s not perfect. The hardware is excellent, the camera is outstanding, and the software is clean and intuitive. However, the AI features are underwhelming and don’t live up to the hype. If you’re looking for a phone with groundbreaking AI capabilities, you’ll have to look elsewhere. But if you’re looking for a well-rounded phone with a premium design, excellent performance, and a top-notch camera, the Pixel 9 Pro is a solid choice. The smaller size of the standard Pro model is a game-changer, making it more accessible and convenient to use. The Pixel 9 Pro is a phone that’s easy to recommend, despite its shortcomings. It’s a phone that gets the basics right, and that’s what matters most.
Ultimately, the Pixel 9 Pro is a testament to Google’s ability to create excellent hardware and software, even if its AI ambitions are still a work in progress. It’s a phone that’s worth considering if you’re in the market for a new flagship device. The focus on a more manageable size makes it particularly appealing for those who have been waiting for a truly pocketable Pro Pixel. Just remember to temper your expectations when it comes to the AI features. Looking for a great deal on a laptop? Check out the Lenovo IdeaPad 5 Touch sale and grab one now!
