Google will finally reveal the much-anticipated Pixel 9 series on August 14 at the “Made by Google 2024” event. This year, the internet giant is trying something different: maybe to keep ahead of leaks, they are publishing information ahead of schedule. Four models—the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold—are anticipated to be part of the new portfolio. It’s possible that Apple made an early statement to beat off the company’s customary September iPhone launch.
Four Models in the Pixel 9 Series
Pixel 9 Lineup and Display Specifications
The four models rumored to debut are the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. According to a leak from 91Mobiles by well-known leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer (OnLeaks), the screen sizes for these models are as follows:
- Pixel 9: 6.3-inch Actua Display
- Pixel 9 Pro: 6.3-inch Super Actua Display
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: Super Actua Display of 6.8-inch
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: 6.3-inch (front) Actua Display + 8-inch Super Actua Flex Display
With the Pixel 8 series, which offers a refresh rate of 60-120Hz and a peak brightness of 2000 nits, Actua Display branding was first introduced. The Super Actua Display models have a more dynamic range with a refresh rate of 1-120Hz and a peak brightness of 2400 nits. This setup continues with the Pixel 9 series, catering to the growing demand for larger and more vibrant screens.
Folding Technology in Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Google’s second generation of foldable devices will be represented by the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. It features a 6.3-inch Actua Display on the front and an 8-inch Super Actua Flex Display on the inside. The display quality has reportedly improved over the original Pixel Fold, potentially offering a superior user experience with the enhanced Actua technology.
Camera Innovations in the Pixel 9 Series
Pixel 9 Camera Enhancements
A 48MP ultra-wide-angle and a 50MP wide-angle back camera are included with the Pixel 9. The Pixel 8’s wide-angle lens remains the same, while the ultra-wide lens has significantly improved from 12MP to 48MP. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL boast a triple-camera setup with 50MP (wide-angle), 48MP (ultra-wide-angle), and 48MP (telephoto), similar to the previous generation.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold will feature a camera setup of 48MP (wide-angle), 10.8MP (ultra-wide-angle), and 10.8MP (telephoto), maintaining the specifications of the original Pixel Fold. The front cameras also see a notable upgrade, with the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL featuring a 42MP camera, a significant leap from the previous 10.5MP.
Redesigned Camera Bar for Pixel 9
The iconic camera bar, a hallmark of Pixel phones since the Pixel 6, has been redesigned for the Pixel 9 series. It now has an elongated and oval shape, drawing design inspiration from the existing Pixel Fold. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold adopts a more iPhone-like square shape for its rear camera bump, potentially enhancing the aesthetic and functionality of the device.
Advanced AI Features with Tensor G4
All Pixel 9 models will be powered by Google’s Tensor G4 processor, enhancing AI capabilities such as the Gemini function. A notable addition is the Pixel Screenshots feature, designed to help users save and retrieve information like events or places. This functionality appears to rival Microsoft’s Recall feature for Copilot+ PCs, offering users a streamlined way to manage important data.
Expected Pricing for Pixel 9 Models
According to French media Dealabs, the anticipated prices for the Pixel 9 series in France are:
- Pixel 9: Starting at 899 euros (approximately 150,000 yen)
- Pixel 9 Pro: Starting at 1,099 euros (approximately 184,000 yen)
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: Starting at 1,199 euros (approximately 200,000 yen)
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Starting at 1,899 euros (approximately 317,000 yen)
Google often sets prices close to the exchange rate, suggesting similar pricing in other markets. However, following the significant price increase of the Pixel 8 series in 2023, Google may adjust prices slightly lower to remain competitive in Japan and other key regions.
Conclusion
The Pixel 9 series promises to deliver cutting-edge technology and innovative features designed to challenge market competitors. As Google reveals more about its latest smartphones, consumers eagerly anticipate how these new devices will perform against rivals like Apple’s iPhone and other leading brands. With the official announcement just days away, the tech world is abuzz with speculation and excitement over Google’s next move.
