Google Pixel 9 Pro Review: The Only Smartphone You Need
Updated: 2 days ago
For years, Google's Pixel line has played second fiddle to the hardware innovations of other premium phones and lacked the flashy marketing of their rivals. However, with the Pixel 9 Pro, Google is staking its claim as the new leader in mobile AI - an area primed to define the smartphone experience going forward.
Under the hood, the new Tensor G4 chipset delivers snappier performance than previous Pixels. However, where the Pixel 9 Pro truly shines is in its AI capabilities. Powered by Google's latest Gemini Nano models, on-device features like Live Translate is more seamless than ever. Perhaps most exciting is the access to Gemini with the click of a button. The assistant can summarise YouTube videos, answer questions about their content, and even have a discussion based on the topics covered.
The Pixel 9 Pro also takes AI photography to new heights. Its dual 50MP rear cameras capture images rivalling the best in class, while the new Night Sight mode for video is nothing short of revolutionary. In near darkness, it brightens scenes and reduces noise, allowing you to capture stable, well-lit footage. Admittedly, processing is still done online rather than instantly. However, the results are well worth the wait - we were amazed at how much noise it can also remove from those darker scenes where even DSLR struggled.
The Pixel 9 Pro offers innovative camera software features. "Add Me" seamlessly integrates photographers into group shots by merging two consecutive photos. However, we did not use this feature very much because the procedure felt forced and less spontaneous. Other prominent features include Long Exposure and Action Pan modes, Best Take, and a variety of photo editing options, some of which are a touch gimmicky.
The Pixel 9 Pro offers a higher resolution OLED display with improved brightness, achieving a peak brightness of 3000 nits compared to the Pixel 9's 2000 nits. The 120Hz refresh rate makes the screen buttery smooth, and we didn't notice any lag throughout our daily use. It also uses LTPO technology, which allows for dynamic refresh rate modification which explains the improvement in battery life.
The phone battery provides approximately two days of usage on a single charge and after many months of usage, we are glad things the battery still holds. It supports 27W wired charging, achieving a full charge in just over 80 minutes, and also offers 21W wireless charging with the Pixel Stand and 12W with Qi-compatible chargers. However, a charger is not included in the box.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro offers seven years of software updates, making it one of the longest-lasting phones available. It is constructed with recycled aluminum, reflecting Google's commitment to sustainability. The phone is also repairable by both Google, third-party shops, or you can DIY, with accessible repair manuals and genuine parts available through iFixit. Additionally, the phone features fast fingerprint and face recognition for convenient and secure access. Additionally,
In conclusion, the Pixel 9 Pro demonstrates Google is serious about claiming the mobile innovation crown. By focusing on AI over less flashy marketing, it has delivered the most intelligent smartphone experience to date. The effortless assistant, stellar cameras and thoughtful design come together beautifully. For those seeking an AI-first daily driver, the Pixel 9 Pro is simply unparalleled. After years playing catch up, this may finally be Google's time to shine.
Pixel 9 Pro will be available in Singapore on 24th of October, starting from S$1,459.