Google’s early launch of the Pixel 9 Pro XL puts it in the spotlight ahead of Apple. I’ve switched from the Pixel 9 Pro to the Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the change has been interesting. The XL feels like a bigger, bolder version of the Pro with some added perks.
Table of Contents
Design and Feel
Google didn’t focus much on the hardware changes during the launch, which surprised me. I initially thought I wouldn’t like the new boxy shape, especially since I loved the soft curves of the Pixel 8 Pro. But I have to admit, the updated size, shape, and feel in the hand have won me over. It’s sleek, firm, and has a flat design on all sides. The camera bar is now a floating backplate nodule, which is a nice touch.
The display is nearly as good as the Galaxy S24 Ultra, though it lacks the anti-glare coating Samsung uses. The screen is beautiful, color-accurate, and enhances whatever content you’re viewing. I love the uniform bezels, but the larger display notch can be a bit distracting. That said, it blends into the background pretty quickly.
The haptic motors have moved under the display, and I think this might be the best haptic feedback I’ve ever felt on a phone. It feels more refined than the iPhone, which is a bold claim, but I stand by it. Unlocking is also faster with the ultrasonic scanner. I registered my thumb a couple of times on each hand, which has helped a lot, especially when using a screen protector.
The speakers are also solid, giving you enough volume to watch videos or listen to podcasts without needing external speakers or earbuds.
Performance with Tensor G4
A lot of tech enthusiasts complain about the Tensor chipsets not having enough power. I get it. At over $1,000, it’s fair to expect a top-tier processor. However, I don’t think most people will notice the difference in everyday use. The Tensor SoC is well-tuned and feels snappy for most tasks.
There are some drawbacks, though. The lack of UFS 4.0 storage is disappointing and could affect performance over time. Also, gaming isn’t the best on this device. It’s not as smooth for extended sessions, but I don’t think hardcore gamers are the target audience for this phone. It handles light gaming and emulators just fine, which suits my needs.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL handles heat better than previous models. The vapor chamber works well, so the phone only gets warm rather than hot, even when pushing it with 4K video recording on a sunny day.
Cellular connectivity has been consistent for me, but that might depend on your network provider. I recently switched providers and noticed a slight drop in service quality, but I haven’t experienced any major connection issues.
Software and AI
Not getting the latest Android version with a new Pixel release feels odd, but I’ve come to terms with it. Google seems to be focusing more on app and Play Services updates rather than major OS upgrades. Android 14 on the Pixel 9 Pro XL feels almost identical to what we’ve been using for a while, thanks to regular updates and enhancements.
I do wish Google would stop restricting some features based on location. For example, Satellite SOS is only available in the US, which is a bummer for those of us elsewhere.
The AI features, particularly Gemini, have been a bit hit or miss. While Gemini offers good contextual understanding, it lacks some basic functionality that the older Assistant handled well. I’m confident this will improve over time, but it feels like Gemini wasn’t fully ready at launch.
Camera Capabilities
The camera is always a highlight of any Pixel phone, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL is no different. The new image signal processor means faster and better image processing. The ultrawide lens is improved, which is great for taking more creative shots. I’m a fan of the telephoto lens, too, as it works well up to 20x zoom. Beyond that, things start to get a bit blurry, but there’s more detail than the previous model.
Zoom Enhance is a feature I hoped would be better. It promises to clean up zoomed-in shots, but often, the results look overly processed. You can get better results using third-party apps from the Play Store. Portrait mode, a staple of Pixel cameras, seems to have taken a step back. Edge detection isn’t as sharp, and you might end up with blurred sections in the background. You’re better off using the telephoto lens for better background blur.
Video capabilities are also a mixed bag. Zooming during video recording is still not smooth unless you enable Video Boost, which adds a bit of a hassle to the process. The standard 4K video is crisp, but I’m not sure the 8K video is truly 8K—it feels more like an oversampled 4K. Google should focus more on improving video features in future models since more people are recording videos on their phones.
Battery Life and Charging
The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers impressive battery life. I’m able to get through two days with light to moderate use without needing to charge. Even with heavy use, it can last a full day easily. I average around 7 hours of screen-on time, which is solid. Standby time has also improved, so it drains less when not in use.
Charging is faster, but it’s not quite at the level of some other flagship phones. Google claims up to 45W charging, but in practice, it seems closer to 32W. Still, going from 0 to 65% in about 30 minutes is a nice improvement and gets me through the day.
Final Thoughts
Despite its flaws, I’m pleasantly surprised by the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Google focused a lot on the AI features, but the core device is the best Pixel yet. It’s not perfect, and there are areas for improvement, especially in performance and camera features. But overall, it’s a fantastic phone.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL feels like a solid step forward for Google. It’s not a groundbreaking device, but it does a lot of things right. I’m enjoying the small tweaks and changes that make it a great smartphone. Take away the AI, and you still have one of the best phones on the market.
FAQs
What’s new in the Pixel 9 Pro XL?
The Pixel 9 Pro XL offers a larger screen, improved haptics, updated AI features, and better camera capabilities compared to its predecessors.
How is the design of the Pixel 9 Pro XL?
It features a sleek, flat design with a floating camera module and uniform bezels. The boxy shape provides a solid, comfortable feel in hand.
Is the display better than previous models?
Yes, the display is more color-accurate and vibrant, though it lacks the anti-glare coating found on some competitors like the Galaxy S24 Ultra.
How does the Tensor G4 chip perform?
It’s fast and responsive for most tasks but lacks the raw power of competitors’ chips, especially for gaming and intensive apps.
Are the camera features improved?
The camera offers faster processing, better ultrawide shots, and solid zoom up to 20x, but portrait mode and video zoom still need work.
Does the Pixel 9 Pro XL overheat?
No, it manages heat well due to its vapor chamber, which prevents overheating even during intensive use like 4K video recording.
How is the battery life?
It offers excellent battery life, often lasting two days with moderate use, and has improved standby time.
Is the AI feature Gemini worth it?
Gemini offers good contextual responses, but some basic functions are missing. It’s expected to improve with future updates.
Does it come with Android 15?
No, it ships with Android 14. Google is focusing more on app and Play Services updates rather than major OS upgrades.
Is the Pixel 9 Pro XL worth buying?
Yes, despite some flaws, it’s a solid phone with great features, especially for those who value Google’s software and AI advancements.
Leave a Reply