Interesting Updates About The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL represents the most recent flagship device from Google, presenting numerous enhancements and novel features compared to its forerunner. Although the smartphone shines in several domains, certain aspects remain that may gain from additional optimization. In this captivating review video by Kyle Erickson, we explore the standout features, performance, and overall user experience of the Pixel 9 Pro XL to assist you in making a well-informed choice.

Design and Build Quality

Google has bestowed upon the Pixel 9 Pro XL a revitalized aesthetic, highlighted by its squared edges and a glossy metal finish that distinguishes it from earlier models. The reimagined camera bump substitutes the previous camera visor, leading to a more seamless and unified look. The gadget is comfortable to grip, owing to its ergonomic structure, and remains steady when set upon a flat surface. Nevertheless, it’s essential to observe that the glossy surface is susceptible to fingerprints, particularly if you select the black (obsidian) variant.

• Revamped design with squared edges and a shiny metal finish
• Seamless camera bump for a unified aesthetic
• Pleasant to hold and stable on flat surfaces
• Glossy surface susceptible to fingerprints, especially in black variant

Display Quality and Touch Sensitivity

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is equipped with a breathtaking 6.8-inch 120Hz OLED display boasting a resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels. The screen reaches a peak brightness of up to 3000 nits, rendering it ideal for multimedia playback and visibility in bright conditions. The high refresh rate guarantees smooth transitions and animations, enhancing the overall user experience. Furthermore, the device features enhanced touch sensitivity with adaptive touch technology and an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, ensuring secure and convenient unlocking.

• 6.8-inch 120Hz OLED display with 1344 x 2992 resolution
• Peak brightness of 3000 nits for exceptional visibility
• Seamless transitions and animations owing to high refresh rate
• Enhanced touch sensitivity with adaptive technology and ultrasonic fingerprint sensor

Performance and Storage

Internally, the Pixel 9 Pro XL runs on Google’s latest Tensor G4 processor, paired with a substantial 16GB of RAM. While benchmark ratings may not outdo those of other flagship smartphones, the device provides remarkable real-world performance, guaranteeing a fluid and responsive user experience. The Pixel 9 Pro XL includes 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage, which, though not as rapid as the newer UFS 4 standard, still offers ample capacity for applications, media, and files. Importantly, the device operates cooler under heavy loads compared to its predecessor, suggesting enhanced thermal management.

• Powered by the Tensor G4 processor and 16GB RAM for outstanding performance
• 128GB UFS 3.1 storage, slower than UFS 4 but still sufficient
• Operates cooler under load in comparison to earlier models

Camera System and Image Quality

The Pixel 9 Pro XL showcases a versatile rear camera arrangement, comprising of a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP telephoto lens, and a slightly modified ultrawide camera. The front-facing camera has also been upgraded, now featuring a 42MP sensor. These cameras produce natural-looking images with excellent dynamic range, preserving detail in both highlights and shadows. However, certain issues with portrait mode and lens transitions may necessitate software updates for resolution. The device supports 8K video recording through upscaling, delivering impressive stabilization while displaying some noise in low-light environments.

• Versatile rear camera arrangement: 50MP main, 48MP telephoto, modified ultrawide
• Enhanced 42MP front-facing camera
• Natural images with excellent dynamic range
• Potential issues with portrait mode and lens transitions may need software updates
• 8K video recording via upscaling, impressive stabilization but some noise in low-light settings

AI Features and Gemini Assistant

The Pixel 9 Pro XL introduces innovative AI-driven photo editing tools, such as auto frame and reimagine, enhancing the user experience and facilitating the capture and editing of breathtaking photographs. Google has also launched the Gemini assistant, a counterpart to ChatGPT, which better understands spoken language. Nevertheless, the assistant’s device control capabilities are currently somewhat limited, indicating potential for future enhancements.

Innovative AI-driven photo editing tools like auto frame and reimagine
Gemini assistant with better spoken language comprehension
Limited device control features for the Gemini assistant

Software and Connectivity

Operating on the latest Android 14 platform, the Pixel 9 Pro XL promises an impressive 7 years of software updates, ensuring extended support and security. The stock Android interface offers a clean and user-friendly experience, featuring smooth animations and transitions throughout the system. Additionally, the smartphone showcases top-notch wireless connectivity, with Wi-Fi 7 support for rapid internet speeds and Bluetooth 5.3 for dependable connections to devices and wearables.

Operates on Android 14 with a commitment of 7 years of software updates
Stock Android interface providing a clean and easy-to-use experience
Excellent wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3

Battery Life and Charging

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is equipped with a 5600mAh battery, offering a decent 6-7 hours of screen-on usage under typical conditions. The device supports 37W wired charging and 23W wireless charging when utilized with the Pixel Stand. However, it lacks compatibility with CH2 magnetic chargers, which could be a disadvantage for some users who prefer the ease of magnetic charging options.

• 5600mAh battery delivers 6-7 hours of screen-on usage
• Supports 37W wired and 23W wireless charging with Pixel Stand
• Lacks compatibility for CH2 magnetic chargers

Overall User Experience

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL provides a refined and enjoyable user experience, thanks to its blend of robust hardware, polished software, and thoughtful design. The device yields pleasing haptics and sound quality, intensifying the overall feel and responsiveness of the user interface. With its remarkable camera setup, extended software support, and strong performance, the Pixel 9 Pro XL stands as a formidable contender for displacing other flagship devices as a daily driver.

Summary

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a versatile flagship smartphone that brings forth numerous enhancements and novel features compared to its predecessor. While certain areas could benefit from additional refinement, such as portrait mode and lens transitions within the camera system, the device excels in many facets, such as performance, display quality, and software experience. If you are seeking a premium Android smartphone with a strong emphasis on camera capabilities and extended software support, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is certainly worthy of consideration.

Source & Image Credit: Kyle Erickson