Google is gearing up to unveil the Pixel 9 series at a major launch event. However, numerous leaks and rumors have already given a glimpse of what to expect. This roundup consolidates the key information about the Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. According to sources like “The Elec,” Samsung’s M14 OLED display panel will be used on the Pixel 9 series. This panel is expected to deliver improved efficiency, brightness, and longevity. The same panel is also planned for the iPhone 16 Pro. The Pixel 9 will reportedly feature a 6.03-inch AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The Pixel 9 Pro, which has a similar display size, is expected to feature a 6.2-inch AMOLED display, resulting in thinner bezels. The Pixel 9 Pro XL will feature a larger 6.7-inch AMOLED display, likely offering a higher resolution than Full HD+. While specific resolution details aren’t available, the display is expected to match the iPhone 16 Pro’s peak brightness, possibly surpassing 2,000 nits. All three models will have rounded corners and a centrally-mounted punch-hole camera.
The Google Pixel 9 series gets a redesigned exterior. One notable change is a new camera module, which moves away from the integrated camera strip design. Leaked renders show a pill-shaped camera island that protrudes significantly from the body, housing either two or three camera sensors, an LED flash and an infrared thermal sensor for the Pro models. The bezels appear to be flat, similar to the iPhone 15 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro are expected to measure 152.8 x 71.9 x 8.5 millimeters, with a thickness of 12 millimeters including the camera. The Pixel 9 Pro XL will be larger at 162.7 x 76.6 x 8.5 millimeters, closely matching the dimensions of the Pixel 8 Pro.
Performance: Tensor G4 SoC and improved 5G modem
The Pixel 9 series will be powered by the upcoming Google Tensor G4 SoC. Leaked AIDA64 screenshots suggest that this octa-core processor will include a Cortex X4 core clocked at 3.1GHz, three Cortex A720 cores clocked at 2.6GHz, and four Cortex A520 cores clocked at 1.95GHz. The SoC will include an Immortalis G715 GPU, possibly with a slightly higher clock speed. The chips will be manufactured by Samsung using the SF4P process. A new 5G modem, the Samsung Exynos 5400, is expected to improve reception and efficiency, and comply with the newer 3GPP standards. This improvement should have a positive impact on battery life. Satellite communication capabilities are also expected, as reported by Android Authority.
Battery improvements: higher energy density
In response to EU regulations, Google will equip the Pixel 9 series with metal-bodied batteries, making them easier to replace. This design will also increase energy density, which could improve battery life by 5 to 10 percent. Combined with a more efficient display, users can expect a noticeable improvement in battery performance.
Camera: Incremental upgrades
The Google Pixel 9 will still have a main camera and an ultra-wide camera, with the periscope camera reserved for the Pro models. While specific sensor details remain scarce, reports suggest that the main camera will use a Samsung ISOCELL-GNV sensor. The cameras are expected to be similar to those in previous models, with a 50MP main camera with an f/1.7 aperture and a 48MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.0 aperture and a 126-degree field of view. The Pixel 9 Pro XL will likely feature a 48MP periscope camera with 5x optical zoom.
The Google Pixel 9 series is expected to be the first to run Android 15. This new version of Android introduces improved privacy features, such as preventing other apps from reading sensitive notifications. Other updates include a “notification cooldown” period to reduce spam notifications, improved Bluetooth management, an improved webcam mode, and native support for satellite links.
Release date and prices
Google has confirmed that the Pixel 9 series will officially unveil on August 13, earlier than expected. In addition to the Pixel 9 devices, the event is also expected to showcase the Google Pixel Fold 2 or Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and the Pixel Watch 3. The market launch is expected to take place shortly after the unveiling.
Pricing is expected to increase slightly compared to the Pixel 8 series. The Google Pixel 9 could start at around $925, the Pixel 9 Pro at $1,195, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL at $1,305. These estimates are based on previous launch trends, with official pricing details to be announced on August 13.
Source: theelec