AI-Driven Photography and Productivity at its Peak
The Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro launched in Australia on 18 October 2024, continuing Google’s focus on AI-powered features, productivity enhancements, and a streamlined Android experience. With the powerful Tensor G4 chip, refined camera capabilities, and unique software features, the Pixel 9 series represents Google’s most ambitious step forward in blending hardware with intelligent software. Here’s an in-depth look at what the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro bring to the table, how they perform in daily use, and how they stack up against top competitors in 2024.
Design: Elegant, Functional, and Refined
Google has maintained the signature Pixel look with the 9 series, refining the camera bar and adding slight curves for better grip. The Pixel 9 has a 6.3-inch OLED display, while the Pixel 9 Pro has a larger 6.7-inch LTPO OLED with a 120Hz refresh rate. Both screens are bright, vibrant, and smooth, with HDR support for immersive visuals. The colour options include Obsidian, Snow, and a new Ocean Blue, offering a professional look with a hint of playfulness.
The build quality is top-notch, with an aluminium frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 3, making both models durable and resilient. With an IP68 water and dust resistance rating, the Pixel 9 series is designed to withstand everyday wear, making it a good choice for users on the go.
Camera: AI-Driven Photography for Stunning Results
Google’s Pixel series is known for excellent camera performance, and the Pixel 9 series takes this a step further with advanced AI processing powered by the Tensor G4 chip.
- Main and Telephoto Cameras: The Pixel 9 features a 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide, while the Pixel 9 Pro adds a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. These lenses are combined with Google’s advanced image processing to capture highly detailed images in various lighting conditions.
- Magic Editor and Best Take: The Magic Editor allows users to edit photos in unprecedented ways, moving subjects, adjusting backgrounds, and refining lighting. Best Take, a feature introduced with the Pixel 8, has been improved with faster processing and better facial recognition to ensure everyone in a group photo looks their best.
- Enhanced Night Sight and Astrophotography: Google has improved Night Sight and Astrophotography, making it even easier to capture crisp, clear shots in low-light and night-sky settings. This feature will appeal to users who enjoy photography and want pro-level results without additional equipment.
- Video Stabilisation and Audio Magic Eraser: The Pixel 9 series boasts smoother video stabilisation and the new Audio Magic Eraser, which reduces unwanted background noise. This is ideal for vloggers, content creators, and anyone who values high-quality video with clear sound.
These features make the Pixel 9 series an exceptional choice for those who want a high-quality, point-and-shoot experience backed by Google’s powerful AI.
Software and AI Features: Elevating Everyday Productivity
The Pixel 9 series comes with Google’s latest Android 15 and exclusive Pixel features that enhance everyday productivity. Google’s AI advancements continue to lead the charge in making tasks easier and more intuitive.
- Google Gemini Integration: Google’s AI assistant Gemini is deeply integrated into the Pixel 9, offering advanced conversational abilities and contextual awareness. Gemini can handle more complex queries, help organise daily tasks, and even provide recommendations tailored to user preferences.
- Call Screen and Direct My Call: Google’s Call Screen, enhanced by Gemini, allows users to filter calls seamlessly, while Direct My Call transcribes phone menu options in real-time, saving users time with customer service lines. These are valuable for those looking to minimise interruptions and manage calls efficiently.
- Pixel Recorder with Summaries: The Pixel Recorder app can now summarise key points from recordings, turning meetings or lectures into concise notes. For professionals, students, and anyone who takes notes regularly, this feature offers a significant productivity boost.
- Health and Temperature Monitoring (Pro Exclusive): The Pixel 9 Pro includes a built-in temperature sensor, which can be used to check object temperatures. Though niche, it adds another layer of functionality to an already versatile device.
These tools make the Pixel 9 series an excellent choice for users who want to streamline tasks and enjoy the benefits of Google’s latest AI-driven software.
Battery Life and Charging: Reliable All-Day Power
With larger batteries and improved power management through the Tensor G4 chip, the Pixel 9 series has reliable battery life for all-day usage. The Pixel 9 packs a 4800mAh battery, while the Pixel 9 Pro includes a larger 5200mAh battery. Both models support 30W wired charging and 20W wireless charging, along with reverse wireless charging for accessories like earbuds.
In everyday usage, these battery capacities ensure that even power users can comfortably get through a full day without needing a mid-day charge, especially with Google’s adaptive battery software optimising energy use based on individual habits.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stellar camera performance with advanced AI-driven editing options
- Smooth, bloat-free Android experience with exclusive Pixel features
- Enhanced AI tools like Gemini and Audio Magic Eraser for productivity and content creation
- All-day battery life with fast charging and wireless options
- Premium build quality with improved durability and sleek aesthetics
Cons:
- No expandable storage, limiting options for users who need additional space
- Temperature sensor is niche, with limited everyday use cases
- Charging speeds are decent but not the fastest compared to some competitors
- Lacks high customisation options found on competitors like Samsung’s One UI
Comparison: Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 15 vs. Samsung Galaxy S24
| Feature | Google Pixel 9 / Pixel 9 Pro | iPhone 15 / iPhone 15 Pro | Samsung Galaxy S24 / S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.3” OLED (9) / 6.7” LTPO OLED (9 Pro), 120Hz | 6.1” OLED (15) / 6.7” LTPO OLED (15 Pro), 120Hz | 6.2” Dynamic AMOLED 2X (S24) / 6.8” LTPO AMOLED (S24 Ultra), 120Hz |
| Processor | Tensor G4 | A17 Bionic | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| Primary Camera | 50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto (9 Pro) | 48MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 12MP telephoto (15 Pro) | 200MP main (S24 Ultra), 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP telephoto |
| AI Features | Magic Editor, Bard, Call Screen | Photonic Engine, Face ID, StandBy Mode | One UI features, DeX Mode, Bixby Text Call |
| Battery | 4800mAh (Pixel 9) / 5200mAh (9 Pro) | ~3340mAh (15) / ~4500mAh (15 Pro) | 4000mAh (S24) / 5000mAh (S24 Ultra) |
| Operating System | Android 15 | iOS 17 | Android 14 (One UI 6) |
| Price Range | AUD $1,299+ (Pixel 9), AUD $1,899+ (9 Pro) | AUD $1,499+ (iPhone 15), AUD $1,999+ (15 Pro) | AUD $1,399+ (S24), AUD $2,049+ (S24 Ultra) |
Key Takeaways
- Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 15: The Pixel 9’s AI features like Magic Editor and Gemini offer advanced editing and productivity options that iOS currently lacks. However, iPhone 15’s integration with Apple’s ecosystem and the A17 Bionic chip gives it the edge in raw performance and ecosystem continuity. For creative users, the Pixel’s Magic Editor provides unique capabilities, while the iPhone’s Photonic Engine focuses on natural image processing.
- Pixel 9 vs. Samsung Galaxy S24: The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s 200MP sensor delivers unmatched detail in photos, ideal for photographers. Samsung’s One UI provides high customisation options, while the Pixel 9 Pro offers a cleaner, bloat-free experience with Google-exclusive features. Samsung’s DeX Mode is useful for professionals wanting a desktop experience, while Google’s AI-driven tools focus on in-device productivity enhancements.
Final Rating: 4.7/5
The Verdict: The Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro bring together Google’s best AI tools, cutting-edge camera features, and a clean Android 15 experience. With enhanced photography options, productivity-focused AI, and a beautifully refined design, the Pixel 9 series is ideal for users who value a streamlined, intelligent smartphone that adapts to their needs.
The Pixel 9 series combines Google’s software prowess with powerful hardware, delivering one of the most practical and enjoyable Android experiences of 2024. For those invested in Google’s ecosystem or who simply enjoy smart, AI-driven features that make everyday tasks easier, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro are standout choices in the current flagship lineup. Whether for professional productivity, creative pursuits, or seamless communication, the Pixel 9 series offers a balanced, innovative experience that feels tailored for modern life.