Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Review

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: A Comprehensive Review

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, released in August 2024, is the latest addition to Google’s flagship smartphone lineup. It promises to be a powerhouse in both performance and design, offering top-tier features that are set to rival other premium smartphones. Below is an in-depth review of the device, covering its design, display, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and pricing in India.

Design and Build Quality

The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a distinct design language that sets it apart from its predecessors. The most notable change is the elimination of the signature camera bar, replaced by a sleeker camera module that blends seamlessly into the 100% recycled aluminum frame. This design choice not only enhances the phone’s aesthetic appeal but also improves its ergonomics. The squared edges of the aluminum frame give the device a premium feel, reminiscent of the iPhone 15 series. However, the polished metal does attract fingerprints, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users.

The device is available in four color options: Porcelain, Obsidian, Hazel, and Rose Quartz, each adding a touch of elegance to its overall look.

Display: A Visual Treat

The Pixel 9 Pro XL features a stunning 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels. The “Super Actua” display supports a dynamic refresh rate from 1Hz to 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and an immersive viewing experience. The display is bright, vibrant, and sharp, making it ideal for multimedia consumption, gaming, and productivity tasks. The large screen size also makes it perfect for multitasking, allowing users to take full advantage of Android 14’s split-screen and multi-window features.

Performance: Powered by Tensor G4

Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by Google’s new Tensor G4 chipset, coupled with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM. This combination ensures that the phone can handle anything you throw at it, from intensive gaming to running multiple apps simultaneously. The Tensor G4 also enhances AI-driven features, making the Pixel 9 Pro XL a true smart device. The integration of AI across the device’s functionality is seamless, with features like real-time language translation, voice commands, and image processing all benefiting from the enhanced processing power.

Camera: Photography Redefined

Google’s Pixel series has always been known for its exceptional camera quality, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL is no exception. It sports a triple camera setup on the back, including a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The new sensor technology and improved image processing algorithms deliver stunning photos with incredible detail, dynamic range, and color accuracy. Night photography has also been significantly improved, with brighter and clearer images even in low-light conditions.

The front-facing camera has also received an upgrade, now featuring a 42MP sensor that captures sharp and vibrant selfies. Video recording capabilities are top-notch, with support for 4K at 60fps and advanced stabilization features.

Battery Life and Charging Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is equipped with a 5,060mAh battery, which comfortably lasts a full day of heavy usage. Google has also improved the charging speeds, with the device supporting 37W wired charging and 23W wireless charging using the second-gen Pixel Stand. Additionally, it supports 12W wireless charging via Qi. The battery optimization features of Android 14 further enhance the phone’s battery life, ensuring that you can go longer between charges.

Pricing in India

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is priced at ₹94,999 for the base 128GB model in India, making it one of the most expensive Pixel phones to date. The 256GB model is available for ₹1,02,999, while the 512GB variant is priced at ₹1,19,999. The top-of-the-line 1TB model, which is ideal for users who require extensive storage, is available for ₹1,49,999.

Conclusion

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a premium device that offers a blend of cutting-edge technology, superior camera performance, and robust build quality. While its price may be steep, it delivers on all fronts, making it a worthy contender in the flagship smartphone market. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a professional looking for a reliable device, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is certainly worth considering.

For more details, you can check out the full review here.