The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL represents a significant step forward in smartphone technology, with a clear focus on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into every aspect of the user experience. This model not only pushes the boundaries of what AI can do on a smartphone but also aims to deliver near-perfect hardware performance. However, with a starting price of $1,100, Google is positioning this device closer to the top-tier competitors like Apple’s iPhone Pro Max, which begs the question: Is the Pixel 9 Pro XL worth the investment?
Design and Display: A New Look with Enhanced Durability
Google has made notable changes to the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s design. The most apparent difference is the introduction of flat sides, a modern look that feels both familiar and fresh. This design choice, which echoes Apple’s recent iPhone models, is coupled with an aluminum frame and Corning’s Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, making the phone twice as durable as its predecessor.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL also sports a matte glass back, which effectively hides fingerprint smudges, while the polished aluminum sides add a touch of elegance. The device is available in four colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, and Rose Quartz, though some might miss the striking blue “Bay” color from the previous generation.
One of the most impressive upgrades is the display. The 6.8-inch screen is slightly larger than last year’s model and reaches a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, making it one of the brightest screens available on any smartphone. This makes the Pixel 9 Pro XL exceptionally easy to use outdoors, though it lacks the anti-reflective coating found on some competitors, like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.
Camera: AI-Enhanced Photography and Video
The Pixel series has always been known for its camera quality, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL continues this tradition with some notable AI enhancements. While the hardware remains largely unchanged—with the same 50MP main sensor and 48MP ultra-wide and zoom cameras—the AI-driven features set this phone apart.
Among the new features is the “Add Me” mode, perfect for group photos. This feature allows you to take a photo with your friends, then switch places to include yourself in the frame. The AI stitches the images together seamlessly, creating a group photo where everyone is present.
Another standout feature is “Reimagine,” which leverages AI to completely transform your photos. For instance, you can replace the background with a sunset or add elements like fireworks, allowing for creative expression that blurs the line between photography and digital art.
In terms of video, the “Video Boost” feature returns with improvements, allowing users to enhance their footage to 8K resolution. This feature, while promising, requires sending the video to Google’s cloud for processing, which may deter some users due to the extra steps involved.
Performance: Powered by the Tensor G4 Chip
Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chip, which is designed with AI tasks in mind. With 16GB of RAM, the phone is equipped to handle these tasks efficiently. However, in terms of raw CPU performance, it still lags behind competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
For gaming, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offers improved cooling, resulting in better performance over extended sessions, though it still falls short of the Galaxy S24 Ultra. The phone also starts with 128GB of storage, which is a bit disappointing considering the higher base storage options available in competing models at similar price points.
Software: Android 14 with AI Innovations
The Pixel 9 Pro XL ships with Android 14, with an upgrade to Android 15 expected soon. Google promises seven years of major OS updates, which is a significant commitment to long-term software support.
New software features include “Pixel Studio,” an AI-powered image generation tool that allows users to create images from text prompts, and “Call Notes,” which summarizes conversations using on-device AI. Google has also introduced a native Weather app—something long overdue—and a Screenshots app that uses AI to organize and search your screenshots.
Battery and Charging: Improved Longevity and Speed
The Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with a 5,060mAh battery, offering solid battery life with significant improvements in web browsing time compared to its predecessor. However, it lags slightly in video streaming duration.
Google has also introduced faster charging speeds with a new 45W charger, though the phone itself maxes out at 37W. Despite this limitation, the Pixel 9 Pro XL charges faster than previous models, reaching 63% in just 30 minutes.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Pixel 9 Pro XL?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is an impressive device, particularly for those who value AI integration in their smartphone experience. It offers some of the best camera and display technologies available, wrapped in a durable and stylish design. However, with its price approaching that of top-tier competitors, buyers must weigh the AI features and Google’s software support against the higher cost and slightly lower raw performance compared to other flagship models.
For Android enthusiasts and those deeply embedded in the Google ecosystem, the Pixel 9 Pro XL represents the cutting edge of what a smartphone can do. For others, it may be worth considering whether the premium price is justified by the AI-driven innovations it offers.
