Google’s Pixel 9 Is Here to Change the Game—And Maybe Redefine It

Last Updated on August 22, 2024 6:52 pm by Jeffrey Powers

I remember when Google Pixel first came out in 2016. Apple came out with the iPhone 7 series, there was still a Windows phone, and you had many choices with Moto, HTC, LG, and Samsung.

The landscape has changed a little, as is the features on the phones, and of course, the price. But still we get newer and greater phones, like in the Pixel 9 event we saw this week.

And Google really swung for the fences, going all in on AI, with other great features that might make the iOS fan wonder if they have the best phone on the market.

That is, until iPhone 16 comes out next month?

Pixel Goes in on Gemini: The AI You’ve Actually Been Waiting For

Let’s cut to the chase: Like I said, AI is the cornerstone of the Pixel 9’s experience, and the star of the show. The moment for virtual assistants is starting to shine. Even though there was a little failure with a specific feature, the overall demonstration was pretty impressive.

Gemini is your assistant, life coach, event planner, and online butler all rolled into one, with hopes that someday it will actually become a butler. It can take a look at your email, cross-reference it with your schedule, and build a plan without you even thinking about it.

Want to grab dinner with friends? It’ll check dietary restrictions, scour Google Maps for the perfect restaurant, and even make the reservation—all in one go. And keep in mind: Gemini’s updated privacy settings will keep your data secure – an important plus in choosing a smartphone nowadays.

Hardware That Finally Matches Google’s Software Ambition

Google’s Tensor G4 chip is the engine behind the AI. Because let’s face it, the Pixel 9 isn’t just going to run Gemini all day. There’s also a camera, apps, social media portal, movie player, gaming, Youtube, and overall app collection that needs to be used as well.

With up to 16GB of RAM in the Pro models and an advanced vapor chamber cooling system, this phone doesn’t just keep up—it sets the pace.

The already awesome display was upgraded for your personal viewing. The new Super Actua display isn’t just marketing fluff; it’s a seriously bright, responsive panel that makes other flagship screens look like relics.

And for the first time, Google’s giving Pro buyers a choice between two sizes because, believe it or not, some people want a powerhouse phone without the tablet-sized screen.

And Then There are Foldables

of course, folding phones are not a new thing, but it’s always interesting to see how something can get better (remember that windows foldable with 2 screens and a seam?). Google’s first-gen foldable had potential but was more a proof of concept than a polished product. Enter the Pixel 9 Pro Fold—a device that’s thinner, lighter, and feels like it was actually designed for all of us humans – you know, to watch those cat videos.

When folded, it’s a sleek, regular-sized phone. But open it up, and you’ve got a vibrant 8-inch tablet that’s 80% brighter than last year’s model. Whether it’s multitasking, gaming, or binging Netflix, this foldable finally justifies its existence, making it a serious contender in the increasingly crowded foldable market.

Cameras: Smarter, Not Just Better

We know the drill by now—Google’s Pixel cameras are consistently among the best in the game. But this time, Google’s not just throwing more pixels and lenses at us; they’re making the entire experience smarter. With HDR+ rebuilt from scratch, low-light shots are clearer, skin tones are more accurate, and there’s even a feature to coax a smile out of toddlers who’d rather be anywhere but in front of your camera.

Oh, and don’t you sleep on the new “Made You Look” feature. This new idea uses playful animations and sounds on the outer display to get your distracted kids (and maybe adults) to focus on the lens – just like saying “Cheese”. Family photos just got a lot less stressful.

Pricing: Google’s Making Moves

Here’s the kicker: despite all the AI flexing and hardware upgrades, Google isn’t pricing the Pixel 9 out of reach. Starting at $799 for the base model and $999 for the Pro, it’s clear that Google’s not just trying to compete—they’re trying to win.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is going to cost you: clocking in at $1,799. This is not cheap, but it is aggressively priced compared to other foldables in the market right now.

Final Thoughts: A New Era for Google Hardware?

The Pixel 9 isn’t just an incremental upgrade. It’s Google’s declaration that they’re done being the underdog. With AI that feels genuinely smart, hardware that’s finally flagship-level, and a foldable that doesn’t feel like a tech demo, Google’s playing to win. The Pixel 9 might not just change the game—it might redefine it. If you’re not paying attention, you should be.

*This post is 40% AI written

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