Google Pixel 9 review – GSMArena.com tests | Infinium-tech

Introduction

The Pixel 8 was one of the most popular choices in the compact segment, and the Pixel 9 is here to take its place as the new option in this peculiar space. With improvements to the design, chipset, screen, camera, and software, we are looking forward to meeting the smallest Google Pixel 9.

But to put an end to all the compact talk, first you need to know that the new Pixel 9 isn’t so small anymore. It has a bigger 6.3” FHD+ OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 30% brightness boost.

The design has been changed too, with two flat Gorilla Glass Victus 2 panels, a new flat aluminium frame and a more prominent but smaller camera bar with clear borders. Yes, it feels more like an iPhone, but it’s still a Pixel, which is easily recognisable. Oh, and it’s still IP68-rated as always.

The Google Tensor G4 chip in all new Pixel 9 phones has 8 next-generation CPU cores, a faster GPU, a more energy-efficient (and better) modem, and more RAM for on-device AI tasks. Speaking of AI, the Tensor Processing Unit, which is at the heart of the new AI features available through Google Gemini, remains the same as inside the Tensor G3.

The Google Pixel 9 has the most minimal cameras compared to the rest of the 9-series – it has the same 50MP primary camera with 2x high-res zoom as the Pixel 8 (and 9 Pro, obviously), as well as the same 10.5MP selfie camera, now with an autofocus lens. There’s also a brand new 48MP ultrawide-angle camera with a bright autofocus lens (yes, it supports macro!).

Other new features on the Pixel 9 include switching to an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, which allows for a more reliable experience. It also comes with satellite SOS support through a new partnership with Garmin and Skylo. Finally, the Pixel 9 also supports 27W fast charging, and gets a boost in battery capacity as well.

The Pixel 9 ships with Android 14, which is the current version of Android, as Android 15 is still a few months away from release. It will get full software support for 7 years.

Google Pixel 9 specifications at a glance:

• Body: 152.8×72.0x8.5mm, 198 grams; Glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus 2), Glass back (Gorilla Glass Victus 2), Aluminium frame; IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5 metres for 30 minutes).
• Display: 6.30″ OLED, 120Hz, HDR10+, 1800 nits (HBM), 2700 nits (peak), 1080x2424px resolution, 20.2:9 aspect ratio, 422ppi; Always-on display.
• Chipset: Google Tensor G4 (4 nm): Octa-core (1×3.1 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3×2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 4×1.92 GHz Cortex-A520); Mali-G715 MC7.
• Memory: 128GB 12GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM; UFS.
• OS/Software: Android 14, up to 7 major Android upgrades.
• rear camera: Wide (main): 50 MP, f/1.7, 25mm, 1/1.31″, 1.2µm, Dual Pixel PDAF, Single-zone Laser AF, OIS; Ultra Wide Angle: 48 MP, f/1.7, 123˚, 1/2.55″, Dual Pixel PDAF.
• Front Camera: 10.5 MP, f/2.2, 20mm (ultrawide), 1/3.1″, 1.22µm, PDAF.
• video capture: rear camera: 4K@24/30/60fps, 1080p@24/30/60/120/240fps; Gyro-EIS, OIS, 10-bit HDR; Front Camera: 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60fps.
• Battery: 4700mAh; 45W wired, PD3.0, PPS, 55% in 30 minutes (advertised), 15W wireless (with Pixel Stand), 12W wireless (with Qi compatible charger), reverse wireless.
• Connectivity: 5G; eSIM; Wi-Fi 6; BT 5.3, aptX HD; NFC.
• various: Fingerprint reader (under the display, ultrasonic); stereo speakers; satellite SOS service.

The Google Pixel 9 feels like a proper flagship that has everything we could think of for a compact-sized premium device. It’s not a huge update over the Pixel 8, but it feels like it has everything that’s new to date.

Unboxing the Pixel 9

The Pixel 9 ships in a recycled paper box with a sleeve. The print is monochrome.

Inside the Pixel 9 you’ll definitely find a USB-C cable and a SIM ejection tool.