Google Pixel 9: A Solid Android Phone with Questionable AI Features
Google’s latest flagship phone, the Pixel 9, comes with a $100 price increase compared to its predecessor, bringing the starting price to $799. The Pixel 9 offers improved specs, including a Google Tensor G4 chip, 12GB RAM, and 128GB storage. The biggest upgrade over the Pixel 8 is the increase in RAM, which theoretically allows for better multitasking. However, the additional RAM is primarily there to support the phone’s numerous AI features.
In terms of design, the Pixel 9 introduces a new color option called “Peony.” However, the phone’s flat, aluminum sides make it less ergonomic and harder to grip compared to previous Pixel models. The back of the phone also features a horizontal, oval-shaped camera bump, deviating from the distinctive Pixel design.
The Pixel 9 boasts an improved display with a maximum brightness of 2,700 nits, making it ideal for use in bright outdoor conditions. The adaptive 60-120Hz refresh rate is unchanged from the previous model, outperforming Apple’s equivalent handsets. The Pixel 9 also offers a slightly larger display at 6.3 inches compared to the Pixel 8’s 6.2 inches.
While the Pixel 9’s specs and display are commendable, its excessive reliance on AI features raises concerns. The phone introduces several new AI-powered tools, ranging from photo editing features like Add Me and Magic Editor to a native Pixel Weather app that provides an AI summary of the day’s weather. However, these features are largely unnecessary and fail to offer transformative or innovative capabilities. The emphasis on AI features feels like bloatware rather than meaningful additions to the user experience.
One notable exception is the Pixel Screenshots app, which catalogs screenshots and memorizes on-screen text for easy retrieval. This AI feature could prove useful for recalling important information captured in screenshots.
In terms of performance, the Pixel 9 fares well in day-to-day use, with quick app loading and no noticeable slowdowns. However, its Geekbench multi-core score falls short compared to some older competitors, indicating that it may not be as powerful as other flagship phones.
The battery life of the Pixel 9 is a standout feature, lasting up to 24 hours with regular use. In a looped TikTok video test, the Pixel 9 outperformed the larger Pixel 9 Pro XL, lasting 19 hours and 20 minutes. The battery life of the Pixel 9 also surpasses that of the Pixel 8.
The Pixel 9’s camera receives a major upgrade with a 48MP ultra-wide lens, providing clear and vibrant shots. Google’s combination of hardware and software processing ensures excellent camera performance, even for amateur photographers. The ultra-wide lens also exhibits improved light sensitivity, making low-light photography easier.
Despite its strong battery life and camera capabilities, the Pixel 9’s excessive AI features overshadow its overall value. Features like AI-generated photos and AI-enhanced memories detract from the authenticity of capturing real moments. While the Pixel Screenshots app proves genuinely useful, the majority of AI features feel tacked-on and unnecessary.
In conclusion, the Google Pixel 9 is a solid Android phone with notable strengths in battery life and camera performance. However, the excessive emphasis on AI features detracts from its overall value. Google would benefit from focusing on meaningful innovation rather than superfluous AI additions.