Tensor G4 chip, Super Actu bright display, AI functions: Google introduced Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL

Google held the Made by Google 2024 event, where it introduced new hardware and software products. Among the announcements were the Pixel 9 smartphones, including the Pro model, which is available in two sizes for the first time.

The Pixel 9 Pro features a 6.3-inch display, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with a 6.8-inch screen. Both devices use Super Actua panels, offering high screen brightness and a 120 Hz refresh rate. At the top of the screen, there is a circular cutout for the 42-megapixel front camera with a 103º field of view. The main camera is equipped with a 50-megapixel sensor, complemented by a 48-megapixel ultra-wide module and a 48-megapixel telephoto lens.

The main camera supports 8K video recording at up to 30 frames per second with Video Bust and Super Res Zoom. Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL also carry over features from last year’s flagship, such as Night Sight Video, Audio Magic Eraser, Macro Focus Video, and more.

The flagship devices are powered by Google’s proprietary octa-core Tensor G4 processor, which enables the Gemini Nano neural network to operate directly on the device. This allows users to utilize AI functions without needing to connect to remote servers, enhancing privacy.

The configuration includes 16 GB of RAM and storage options of 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB. Due to the difference in sizes, the devices are equipped with different batteries: the Pixel 9 Pro has a 4700 mAh battery, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 5060 mAh battery. Both devices support fast charging up to 45 W, allowing the battery to charge from 0 to 70% in 30 minutes.

AI functions

Both smartphones support Google AI-branded features. Among them is Gemini Live, which enhances the voice assistant. Additionally, 10 new assistant voices have been added. With Pixel Studio, users can create and edit images using text prompts, allowing for the creation of new images and the modification of existing ones on the device.

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL also support Call Notes, which generates a summary and full transcript of the last call immediately after it ends (works if the call lasted more than 30 seconds). The Pixel Screenshot feature uses the Gemini neural network and other algorithms to help users find the necessary information among the screenshots stored on the device.

In the U.S., the Satellite SOS feature will be available, allowing users to contact emergency services via satellite communication in the absence of a cellular signal. The first two years of its use will be free. Additionally, a new Pixel Weather app has been introduced, using AI to provide accurate and detailed weather forecasts. Gemini Nano, running locally, can generate weather forecasts and display them at the user’s specified time.

Although the new Google smartphones are launching as the beta phase of Android 15 is concluding, they will ship with Android 14. Google promises to provide OS and feature updates for seven years, with Android 15 becoming available in the coming months.

Both of Google’s flagships will be available in several colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Walnut, and Rose Quartz. The Pixel 9 Pro starts at $999, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at $1099.