Google Pixel 9 review: The android flagship we’ve been waiting for

The Pixel 9 comes with Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, which delivers solid daily performance while managing heat better than previous models. The phone’s 1080p screen and camera setup, though lacking some features of the Pro versions, offer a polished and reliable user experience.

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The Google Pixel 9 marks a significant evolution in the Android phone landscape. While it may seem like a collection of minor updates compared to its predecessors, these incremental improvements have culminated in a device that stands out in a crowded market. With a starting price of $799, the Pixel 9 offers a compelling alternative to other flagship models, positioning itself as a serious contender alongside Samsung and Apple.

Distinctly less feature-rich than its Pro counterparts, the Pixel 9 has 12GB of RAM and lacks the telephoto lens found on the Pixel 9 Pro models. However, it maintains a high level of performance with its bright 6.3-inch screen and efficient battery life that lasts throughout the day. The Pixel 9’s fingerprint sensor is notably faster and more reliable compared to earlier models, addressing one of the most common user frustrations.

From a design perspective, the Pixel 9 mirrors the aesthetic of recent iPhones with its rounded screen corners and flat sides. Despite this resemblance, the phone feels significantly more secure in the hand compared to its predecessors. The 1080p resolution of the screen, while not the highest available, provides sufficient clarity for most users.

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The camera setup on the Pixel 9 includes the same main and ultrawide lenses as the Pro versions but omits the telephoto lens. While the loss of a telephoto lens is noticeable, the Pixel 9 compensates with a 2x crop zoom that delivers acceptable results for most users. Although the phone’s screen doesn’t achieve the peak brightness of the Pro models, it remains usable even in direct sunlight.

Equipped with Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, the Pixel 9 delivers robust performance without the excessive heat issues seen in previous generations. The chipset ensures smooth operation for daily tasks and moderate gaming, though it can become warm during intensive use.

One of the Pixel 9’s standout features is its commitment to software longevity, offering seven years of OS updates. It launches with Android 14 but will be among the first to receive Android 15 later this year. This long-term support underscores Google’s commitment to maintaining the Pixel 9’s relevance in a fast-evolving tech landscape.

Despite not having every advanced feature available on higher-end models, the Pixel 9 excels in providing a streamlined, dependable Android experience. Its straightforward design, solid performance, and extended software support make it a noteworthy option for users seeking a high-quality, no-nonsense flagship phone.