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Google Pixel 9 Pro: Is It Worth the Upgrade from the Pixel 8 Pro

The Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL introduce several upgrades over the Pixel 8 Pro. Both models feature the new Google Tensor G4 processor, 16GB of RAM (up from 12GB in the Pixel 8 Pro), and enhanced camera capabilities, including a 42MP front-facing camera—significantly higher than the Pixel 8 Pro’s 10.5MP selfie camera. Additionally, the Pixel 9 Pro’s display boasts up to 3,000 nits peak brightness and a refreshed design with flat edges.

However, the Pixel 8 Pro still holds up well, especially given its lower price, making the upgrade less compelling unless you need these specific improvements

Specification	Pixel 9 Pro	Pixel 9 Pro XL
Display	6.3-inch LTPO OLED Super Actua display	6.8-inch LTPO OLED Super Actua display
Refresh Rate	120Hz	120Hz
Brightness	2,000 nits HDR, 3,000 nits peak	2,000 nits HDR, 3,000 nits peak
Glass	Gorilla Glass Victus 2	Gorilla Glass Victus 2
Processor	Google Tensor G4	Google Tensor G4
Security	Titan M2 security coprocessor	Titan M2 security coprocessor
Cameras	50MP primary, 48MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom, 42MP selfie	50MP primary, 48MP ultra-wide, 48MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom, 42MP selfie
Battery	4,700mAh	5,060mAh
Charging	45W fast wired charging, fast wireless charging, battery share	45W fast wired charging, fast wireless charging, battery share (70% in 30 min)
Software	Android 14, 7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates	Android 14, 7 years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates

Key AI features introduced with the Google Pixel 9 Pro include:

Gemini AI Assistant: This new assistant manages tasks like taking notes, setting reminders, and answering questions, while Gemini Live enhances conversational experiences directly on the device.

Photography Enhancements:

Add Me: Seamlessly integrates you into group photos using AI.
Magic Editor: Employs generative AI to recommend optimal crops, expand images, and enhance photos by adding elements or adjusting colors.

Pixel Studio: A new app for generating AI-created images using both on-device and cloud-based models.

Custom Weather Reports: AI-driven weather updates tailored to your location and specific needs.

Call Notes: Automatically saves and organizes summaries of phone calls, all processed on-device.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro introduces some notable upgrades over the Pixel 8 Pro, but whether it’s worth the upgrade depends on your specific needs.

Key Upgrades:
Performance: The Pixel 9 Pro comes with the Tensor G4 processor and 16GB of RAM, compared to the Tensor G3 and 12GB of RAM in the Pixel 8 Pro. While these improvements may offer better performance in demanding tasks like gaming or AI applications, the real-world difference might be minimal unless you’re a power user.

Camera: The most significant upgrade is the new 42MP front camera, a big leap from the 10.5MP on the Pixel 8 Pro. The rear camera system remains similar, though with added features like 8K video recording and Super Res Zoom.

Design and Display: The Pixel 9 Pro has a smaller, more pocketable design with flat edges, diverging from the more curved design of the Pixel 8 Pro. The new model also features a brighter display, reaching up to 3,000 nits, which could be useful in bright sunlight.

Additional Features: Satellite SOS connectivity is exclusive to the Pixel 9 Pro, which could be a deciding factor for those who spend time in remote areas.

Considerations:

Price: The Pixel 9 Pro is priced higher than the Pixel 8 Pro, and unless these new features are critical for you, the cost might not justify the upgrade.
Battery: The Pixel 9 Pro has a slightly smaller battery, but faster charging speeds and improved efficiency with the Tensor G4 may offset this.

Google Pixel 9 Pro: Is It Worth the Upgrade from the Pixel 8 Pro

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Geethu Arun