Feed aggregator

Google's AI-powered assistant, Gemini, is a bit of a diva.

During Tuesday's Made by Google event, Gemini AI's live demo failed twice in a row, resulting in the presenter, Dave Citron, saying, "Let's see the demo spirits are with us today." On the third attempt, Gemini completed the task at hand: checking his calendar to see if he's free for Sabrina Carpenter's upcoming show in San Francisco.

SEE ALSO: Everything announced at Made by Google 2024, including the new Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel Watch 3, and Gemini Live

The live demo aimed to demonstrate Gemini's new capabilities on Android to connect with Google Calendar, Tasks, and Keep.

Before the demo failed, Citron clearly stated, "All the demos we are doing today are live," with a smile. He took a photo of a Sabrina Carpenter poster held up by co-presenter Jess Carpenter and asked Gemini, "Check my calendar and see if I'm free when she's coming to San Francisco this year." But the Gemini briefly loaded and then reset. Citron tried again with the same result. It's only when he pulled out a different device and tried for the third time that Gemini informed him of his availability to see the "Espresso" singer live. It took Gemini 20 seconds to determine he didn't have anything on his schedule.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

After, he asked for a reminder to be set to check for tickets later today and to add espresso to his shopping lists, both of which Gemini completed without incident.

Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez are joined by Eugene Levy, Zach Galifianakis, and Eva Longoria in Hulu's comedy hit.

The internet giant unveiled the next generation of Pixel phones, headphones and watches to stand out in a hardware market that has mostly ignored it.

Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro XL price Pixel 9 Pro in a nice pink color. Credit: Kimberley Gedeon/Mashable

The Pixel 9 Pro starts at $999. The Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at $1,099. One of those numbers is smaller than the other, so it wins.

Winner: Pixel 9 Pro

Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro XL display Pixel 9 Pro XL's display is real nice. Credit: Kimberley Gedeon/Mashable

As you might imagine, the primary difference between the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL comes down to physical size. Specifically, the display on one is substantially bigger than the other.

To be more specific, the Pixel 9 Pro has a 6.3-inch display, which is exactly the same as the base Pixel 9. The Pixel 9 Pro XL's display is 6.8 inches, which is actually about the same as last year's non-XL Pixel 8 Pro. Google's naming conventions here are a little misleading, then, because you'd be inclined to believe the Pixel 9 Pro XL is an entirely new form factor.

However, it's the non-XL Pixel 9 Pro that's actually new, given that it's a premium Pixel at a base Pixel size. It's mostly a semantic difference, but still interesting nonetheless. Anyway, the two phones have the same aspect ratio, refresh rate, and peak brightness. The only difference besides size is resolution, with the Pixel 9 Pro at 1280 x 2856 and the Pixel 9 Pro XL at 1344 x 2992.

Winner: Pixel 9 Pro Xl

Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro XL specs Pixel 9 Pro is no slouch, specs-wise. Credit: Alex Perry/Mashable

Get ready to see the following sentiment a lot: This one's a tie.

Seriously, aside from the display, these two phones are more or less identical. Here are the basic internal specs for both:

• Tensor G4 chip

• 16GB RAM

• 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB storage options

These two phones, from a performance perspective, should be exactly the same. Maybe some differences will rear their heads during extensive product testing post-launch, but for now, this is a draw.

Winner: Tie

Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro XL features Pixel 9 Pro XL has the same set of features as Pixel 9 Pro. Credit: Kimberley Gedeon/Mashable

Everything I wrote in the above category applies here, too.

Both phones will have all of the same software features, so people who don't feel like spending the extra $100 won't miss anything in terms of everyday utility. If you're enamored with the suite of Gemini-powered AI features on the new Pixels, for example, literally any of the four new Pixel 9 models will give you what you want, using a combination of on-device AI and cloud-based solutions.

Winner: Tie

Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro XL camera Pixel 9 Pro has the same camera as its XL counterpart. Credit: Kimberley Gedeon/Mashable

Surprise! These two phones have the exact same camera specs:

• 50MP rear wide lens

• 48MP rear ultra-wide lens

• 48MP rear telephoto lens

• 42MP selfie cam

This is the best set of cameras you will get on a Pixel 9 phone, at least in terms of specs. The 42MP selfie cam is new this year, and while we haven't tested it yet, it should produce nice-looking shots for your IG page.

Winner: Tie

Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro XL battery life Pixel 9 Pro XL should have a better battery. Credit: Alex Perry/Mashable

Heck yeah, here's a category that isn't a tie.

The Pixel 9 Pro has a 4,700mAh battery, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 5,060mAh battery. You will theoretically get more juice out of a full charge with Pixel 9 Pro XL. We don't know exactly how much yet, but it should be at least something.

Interestingly, another difference comes in the form of fast charging. Google claims the Pixel 9 Pro can get up to 55 percent battery in 30 minutes using a 45W charger (sold separately, of course). The Pixel 9 Pro XL, meanwhile, can get up to 70 percent in the same amount of time under the same conditions.

Winner: Pixel 9 Pro XL

Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro XL: Which is better for you? Small hands? Pixel 9 Pro is the one for you. Credit: Kimberley Gedeon/Mashable

There's really no loser here. Both phones have (on paper) impressive specs, a robust suite of software features, and beefy camera lenses — at least in terms of megapixel counts. The only differences come in the form of display and battery size. While the Pixel 9 Pro XL is technically a better phone due to its bigger battery alone, the choice should really come down to personal preference for a smaller or bigger phone.

Winner: Pixel 9 Pro XL (unless you have small hands)

Here's the lowdown on the Pixel 9. It's got a totally different design from its predecessor, with a humongous camera bump on the back. The display is slightly bigger, brighter, and better than before. Plus, it has a much-improved ultrawide camera and a new Google Tensor G4 chip inside. It's a significant improvement over the Pixel 8 and a worthy competitor to the iPhone 15.

SEE ALSO: iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: What are the differences? Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 15 price

Both the new Pixel 9 and Apple's iPhone 15 start at the exact same price: $799. (You can purchase the iPhone 15 from Apple's official website and the Pixel 9 from Google's official product page.)

For the money, both phones offer 128GB of storage, so this is a total draw — so far.

Apple iPhone 15 $829.00 at Walmart
Get Deal Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 15 design

This will obviously depend on everyone's preferences. But the comparison will definitely a little unfair as the Pixel 9 is as new as they come, while the iPhone 15 has been around for nearly a year.

In any case, both phones have radical redesigns compared to their predecessors. The iPhone 15 has the Dynamic Island feature (first introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro), giving it that characteristic black pill cutout that makes it stand out from most non-Apple phones. On the back, the two cameras easily betray that it is not, in fact, a Pro model because it lacks a third sensor (e.g., telephoto), but it still looks pretty fresh in our opinion. You can get it in Blue, Pink, Yellow, Green, and Black.

Yes, the Pixel 9 is available in pink (but it's called peony). Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

On the other hand, the Pixel 9 is a pretty dull affair on the front, with a tiny, circular cutout for the selfie camera and round corners, making it look pretty much the same as any other Android phone. On the back, however, there's a massive pill-shaped camera bump, which is a nice departure from the Pixel 8's dull-ish design. Here are the Pixel 9's color options: Obsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, and Peony.

Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 15 specs

The iPhone 15 has a 6.1-inch OLED display with the Dynamic Island cutout on top and a peak brightness of up to 2,000 nits. It's powered by Apple's A16 Bionic chip, starts with 128GB of storage, and has a 48-megapixel camera on the back, coupled with a 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor.

iPhone 15 Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

Battery is rated for 20 hours of video playback, and the phone is dust-and-water-resistant to IP68 specifications. Apple-specific features include Face ID, MagSafe accessories and charging, Siri digital assistant (about to get better with iOS 18), car crash detection, and sending emergency messages via satellite when there's no cell connectivity.

The Pixel 9 has a slightly larger, 6.3-inch Actua display with up to 2,700 nits brightness. It's powered by Google's Tensor G4 chip, coupled with 12GB of RAM and 128GB of starting storage. Battery is good for 24+ hours of use per Google's specs, and the camera system consists of a 50-megapixel main camera and a 48-megapixel ultrawide camera.

The Google phone is also dust-and-water resistant to IP68 specs. It boasts similar safety features as the iPhone, including satellite SOS messages and car crash detection. Perhaps its most important traits are Google's software and AI smarts, which are typically top notch on Pixel phones, with access to features that trickle down to other Android phones much later.

Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 15 battery life

The way these two companies rate battery life for their phones could not be any more different. Google says the Pixel 9 has 24+ hours of battery life, which can be extended up to 100 hours with Extreme Battery Saver. Google also revealed that the typical battery capacity of the Pixel 9 is 4,700mAh.

iPhone 15 Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

Apple does not say how big the iPhone 15's battery is (we know that its capacity is 3,349mAh from reports). And it does not have a rating for regular use. Instead, the company says you'll get up to 20 hours of video playback,16 hours of streamed video playback, and up to 80 hours of audio playback.

Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 15 camera

We'll have to keep this one short, as we haven't had enough time to thoroughly experiment with the Pixel 9's cameras.

The specs are similar: The iPhone 15 has a 48-megapixel main camera with 2x optical zoom and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera. We've found it to be pretty great, unless you really need more zoom.

That's one hefty camera bump on the back of the Pixel 9. Credit: Mashable

The Pixel 9 is slightly more powerful on paper: a 50-megapixel main camera with 2x optical zoom and a 48-megapixel ultrawide camera with macro mode. The megapixel count here isn't necessarily important. Image processing and software algorithms can step in to compensate for any hardware limitations — and do it well. For example, I've reviewed some horrible cameras with a high megapixel count. Still, the Pixel phones have a reputation of delivering excellent photos due to Google's AI enhancements.

We'll have to get the Google Pixel 9 and iPhone 15 cameras in for review to really put them to the test.

Pixel 9 vs. iPhone 15: AI

Oh boy. This is a tough one. In broad terms, Google is ahead of Apple when it comes to AI, though it has had its share of issues. Apple's got big plans for the iPhone, some of which is coming with iOS 18 (but it will be applicable to the iPhone 15 as well), and some of it coming at a later date. To make matters even more complicated, Apple reportedly plans to incorporate Google Gemini into Apple Intelligence.

Apple's AI is not exactly here yet, but it's coming, and much of it should work on the iPhone 15. Credit: Apple

As such, it's difficult to say which phone will end up being better when it comes to AI-related features in the long-term. Right now, though, the iPhone 15 is very limited when it comes to AI, whereas Google Pixel 9 already has Gemini on board and boasts a number of AI-enhanced features integrated into Google services, including Gmail and Google Maps. Let's stay in the present and call this one a win for Google, for now.

Google Pixel 9 vs. Apple iPhone 15: Which one should you get?

For the vast majority of users, it's all about the ecosystem. You either prefer Android or iOS — and that's how you'll choose your next phone. (Among Android devices, though, the Google Pixel 9 is a top choice). For those who don't have an allegiance to either operating system, the Pixel 9 edges out the iPhone 15 by a narrow victory.

Sure, it matches the iPhone in most cases, but it's slightly larger with a brighter display. Plus, it has better AI integration.

Keep in mind, however, that all of this might change when the iPhone 16 comes out in a month.

Last year, Google's Pixel Fold was a solid first attempt at a foldable. This year, Google has not only changed the follow-up's name, but it has improved the device in almost every way that one could possibly care about.

At least, that’s the impression I got after spending just a few minutes hands-on with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Google has altered the name to put the new foldable into the Pixel 9 family, but it's definitively a successor to the old Pixel Fold. With a gigantic inner display and a remarkably thin form factor, those with the cash lying around and the interest in having a giant phone may want to keep an eye on Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold hands-on: Thin is in The camera viewfinder is enormous, as you can imagine. Credit: Kimberley Gedeon/Mashable

As someone who has reviewed multiple foldables over the years, my brief hands-on time with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold left me pretty impressed.

For starters, Google is touting the 8-inch inner display as "the largest ever on a smartphone." That's a pretty lofty superlative, but when you see it in action, you instantly understand the appeal. With up to 2,700 nits of peak brightness, a 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate, and a 2076 x 2152 resolution, everything looks vibrant, smooth, and sharp as heck. This has always been my favorite foldable form factor because the large inner screen is eminently useful for watching videos and reading books — and that hasn't changed here. This will undoubtedly be an excellent way to do those things on a phone.

But what might be an even more impressive achievement on Google's part is the outer display, the one you use when the phone is folded. Last year's Pixel Fold had a 5.8-inch outer screen that simply felt too condensed, too short when compared to a regular smartphone. This year, Google has upgraded it to a much taller 6.3-inch display that genuinely just kinda looks and feels like a Pixel 9 when you use it one-handed. You could conceivably go through a whole day without ever unfolding it if you wanted to.

Look at how thin it is. Credit: Kimberley Gedeon/Mashable

And that's still not the best thing Google did to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold! The foldable is super thin — like really thin. It's just 0.20 inches unfolded, beating the OG Google Pixel Fold's 0.22-inch height. At 257 grams, it's heavier than a single-screen phone would be, but still light enough to fit within acceptable parameters.

If you've been foldable-curious, and you have $1,700 lying around, maybe check this one out.

Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs

Pixel Studio, revealed at Made by Google 2024, is one of the many new AI features coming to the newly announced Google phones, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

The search engine giant boasts that the Pixel Studio is users' new "creative assistant." Leveraging capabilities such as text-to-image, you can have a lot of fun with Pixel Studio creating funky AI-generated images. At a recent press event, I got to see the Pixel Studio in action as it competes with the likes of OpenAI's DALLE-3 and Midjourney.

SEE ALSO: Don’t like your DALL-E images? OpenAI now lets you edit them. This funky cat was created on Pixel Studio

With the prompt, "A cat wearing flat black pixel sunglasses in New York City," I watched the following AI-generated feline appear on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold:

Check out this AI-generated kitten on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I was most surprised by the low latency. The AI-generated kitty popped up in less than two seconds.

So what's underpinning the Pixel Studio's text-to-image capabilities? An AI model called Imagen 3, a DALLE-3 and Midjourney competitor.

Imagen 3, born out of the search engine giant's DeepMind AI lab, is capable of understanding natural-language prompts. It can deliver high quality images in a wide variety of styles, from photorealistic cityscapes to intricately textured oil paintings.

Imagen 3 is Google's newest, most capable model — and it runs on the cloud. Once it "lands" on your phone, you can edit and refine the image, which taps into the on-device AI (the Google Tensor G4 chip in the case of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold). So in other words, Pixel Studio combines both cloud and local processing.

I watched the Google rep revise his original prompt, which transformed the cool cat into a sign-holding kitty. The message said, "Oh yeah!" (This part is still happening in the cloud.)

Now, it's holding a sign. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

You can also alter the style of the image with any one of the suggested visual looks, including sketch, vintage, anime, 3D creation, cinematic, video game, cyberpunk, and more. Here's what the anime style looks like:

The "anime" version of the original kitty. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Next, you can fire up the in-app editing suite and make changes to your liking. This is where the on-device processing kicks in. You can, for example, isolate an unwanted object and remove it. You can also transform your AI-generated creation into a sticker, allowing you to share it with your friends.

Add some text and you've got a meme Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

You can access Pixel Studio via the home screen.

Arrow pointing to the new Pixel Studio app Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Pixel Studio will be available across the Pixel 9 smartphone family, starting with the $799 entry-level Pixel 9. It's available for pre-order today.

The Made by Google 2024 event on Tuesday brought major Pixel news. Chief among those headlines: The Pixel 9 Pro XL is here. It's exactly what it sounds like: a larger third edition to the Pixel 9 series.

It might not be, exactly, a major advancement but — hey — it's bigger than the other phones, as Mashable's Alex Perry pointed out.

Still, that was far from the only big announcement on Tuesday. There was even more Pixel news, AI advancements, and a new watch. We've got all the news you need to know.

Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro

Google dropped the Pixel 9 on Tuesday, a highly anticipated new version of its flagship phone. The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, in short, are a bit smaller compared to the new Pixel 9 Pro XL, have great cameras, and impressive AI features, Mashable's Kim Gedeon noted after testing out the new phones.

From left to right: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Gedeon wrote: "Overall, this year's Pixel 9 series proves that Google is serious about competing against the major players in the mobile industry — and this bold move will challenge Samsung and Apple's dominance like never before."

Plus, the Pixel 9 comes in a rich shade of pink.

The entry-level Pixel 9 starts at $799 while the Pixel 9 Pro will run you $999.

Pixel 9 Pro XL

The Pixel 9 Pro XL was one of the biggest announcements of the day.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL in all of its glory. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Literally. It's the biggest device in the Pixel 9 lineup. But, as Mashable's Alex Perry pointed out, the display on the 9 Pro XL is actually about the same than that of a Pixel 8 Pro.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL's display. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

So, really, Google downsized the Pixel 9 Pro and made an "XL" phone that's basically the same as last year's Pixel 8 Pro. It starts at $1,099.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold

Pretty much every phone company not named after a fruit is experimenting with foldable phones. Google is no exception. It announced the Pixel 9 Pro Fold on Tuesday and it's the thinnest foldable yet.

Look at all that screen. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

It unfolds into an 8-inch screen with fantastic resolution and features that allow users to make the most of that screen space. You can, for instance, stream up to four different videos in different quadrants of the screen.

It'll cost you, however, starting at $1,799.

Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs Pixel Watch 3

Google's Pixel Watch got it's latest update at the Made by Google event on Tuesday. And, since folks have different size wrists, it finally comes in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm.

Get to running with the Pixel Watch 3. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Mashable's Stan Schroeder broke down some of the upgrades over the Pixel Watch 2, including more display real estate, improved brightness, and better, more-detailed workout tracking.

Pixel Watch 3 (41mm size) will start at $349.99 for Wi-Fi and $449.99 for LTE. Pixel Watch 3 (45mm size) will start at $399.99 for Wi-Fi and $499.99 for LTE

Pixel Buds Pro 2

Google dropped its latest Pixel Buds model, and like plenty of tech in 2024, they're AI-powered. Google says its newly installed Tensor chip's AI capabilities should vastly improve the buds' noise cancellation features, create crisper sound on phone calls, and automatically detect an IRL conversation so you won't have to remove a bud to talk to someone.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

As Mashable's Matt Binder wrote, another major feature is a twist-to-adjust stabilizer that Google says will keep your buds from falling out. If that really works, it'll be huge for runners and folks exercising with buds in. The buds are $229.99.

Gemini Live

Speaking of AI, it's 2024 and AI is everywhere, so of course Made by Google had AI announcements. Perhaps chief among those announcements was Gemini Live, which Mashable's Kim Gedeon called "the biggest threat to ChatGPT right now."

Gemini Live, in action. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Gemini Live, Google's AI chatbot, has an impressive voice and listening mode, Gedeon noted, and comes close to performing as well as ChatGPT.

Lots of AI features

Gemini Live is hardly the only new AI feature Google announced on Tuesday at the Made By Google event. Here are a few of the biggest and coolest features.

An AI-powered Pixel weather app

The new Pixel phones, the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. got a new weather app with AI features.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Basically it has all the normal weather app features plus a an AI-powered summary that'll give you a rundown of the day's weather and any recommendations like to wear sunscreen.

Made You Look

This one's for all the parents out there.

A chicken animation from the Made You Look feature. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has an AI-powered feature called Made You Look that displays an animation on the display facing the subject of a photo. The AI-powered feature can then detect when the subject is looking at the animation, draw their attention further, then snap a pic. Basically, it'll help folks get good snaps of their kids, which is pretty neat.

Add Me

Google dropped another neat AI-powered photography feature called Add Me.

You didn't see her, but now you do. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The idea is simple enough to understand. You can take a group pic, then snap a picture of the photographer, and then the AI will merge those pics and drop the photographer into the group picture. You no longer need to ask a stranger for help.

Pixel Screenshots

This is a big one for me, personally, a person who takes far too many screenshots.

Pixel Screenshots in action Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Google's new Pixel phones has a feature the creates a title and summary for screenshots, making them searchable. It'll be so much easier to find memes now.

This story is developing...

At the 2024 Made by Google event, the search engine giant announced the brand new Pixel Buds Pro 2. 

With all of the controversy surrounding Samsung's new Galaxy Buds 3 Series looking like Apple AirPods clones, we should address this: Google's Pixel Buds Pro 2 do not look like replicas of the popular Apple earbuds. The design of the earbuds are different — unlike the AirPods Pro and the Galaxy Buds 3, there are no stems in sight.

With that out of the way, here are what the Pixel Buds Pro 2 do offer.

Credit: Google The new Google Pixel Buds Pro 2

Google seems to be going all-in with the AI-powered aspect of its new wireless earbuds. The company says this is the first time its powerful Tensor chip has been used in earbuds. According to Google, the Tensor A1 chip, which was built specifically to power Google AI processing, is able to process audio "90 times faster than the speed of sound." 

With this, Pixel Buds Pro 2's Active Noise Cancellation with Silent Seal 2.0 feature is able to cancel "twice as much" noise as the first Pixel Buds Pro in order to deliver clearer audio for phone calls.  

Google's Tensor chip also comes in handy for another new AI-powered feature in the Pixel Buds Pro 2: Conversation Detection. Basically, Google says users won't have to remove the earbuds in order to have real-life conversations. Pixel Buds Pro 2 are able to detect when a user starts speaking and will automatically pause any music that's playing and switch to Transparency mode. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 can detect when the conversation is over, too, and resume the audio in the earbuds automatically, without the user having to do anything.

Switching audio in general will be much easier as Google said that the new Pixel Buds Pro 2 will be able to automatically switch between devices based on what the user is doing.

Credit: Google

Back to the design aspects of the Pixel Buds Pro 2, Google claims that these latest earbuds are "the most comfortable and secure-fitting earbuds." They're also 27 percent smaller than the previous generation. Google was able to make these earbuds lighter while increasing the battery life as well.

Sick of your earbuds popping out of your ear? The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also has a new twist-to-adjust stabilizer, which locks the earbuds in a user's ear in situations like running or other exercise.

There are some caveats here. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 do require a Google Account for some features, which shouldn't be a problem for most. However, an Android device (specifically a Pixel 7 or newer) is required for some of the specific AI-powered features. So, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are probably not the best choice for Pixel 6 and iPhone users, for example.

Pre-orders for the Pixel Buds Pro 2 drop tomorrow and have a price tag of $229.99. They're expected to hit store shelves on Sept. 26.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, introduced at the Made by Google event on Tuesday, is finally here. It's the thinnest foldable you can buy, according to Google. Thin has always been in when it comes to tech products, but tech giants have been really ramping up the competition lately to see which brand can deliver the slimmest, sleekest design to attract consumers.

A folded Google Pixel 9 Pro Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

For example, Apple called its latest iPad Pro "thinpossible" because the tablet is its slimmest product ever, even thinner than the iPod Nano, and sales for the iPad Pro have gotten a sizable boost year-over-year. There's no data that confirms that its compactness was the biggest draw for consumers, but the growing trend of ultra-thin devices in recent years indicates that this form factor likely resonates with a significant portion of the market.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the thinnest foldable you can buy. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The first-generation Google Pixel Fold launched last year, claiming to be the thinnest foldable on the market. However, some consumers reported issues with the screen, including dents and cracks. It's difficult to say whether this issue was widespread — and Mashable's Alex Perry didn't experience any problems with his Google Pixel Fold when he reviewed it last year.

Still, as someone who has reviewed the likes of ultra-thin foldables like the Microsoft Surface Duo that just couldn't overcome the compromises that come with a slim chassis, I can't help but feel a bit anxious about the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold announced at Made by Google 2024

Let's talk about some of the new Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold features:

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

• It's got the largest display of any foldable

• Its 8-inch screen is now 80% brighter

• It's got a new-and-improved hinge made of stainless steel

• It's packed with a new suite of incredible AI features

• It's the thinnest foldable you can buy

It's the "thinnest foldable" part that's got me feeling a bit apprehensive. This is only because, as I mentioned at the outset, slimness means you'll have to make some compromises because you're packing powerful components into a razor-thin chassis. Don't underestimate the engineering expertise required to strike the perfect balance between sleekiness, durability, and satisfactory performance. It's quite challenging, to say the least.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

This is why I wasn't surprised that the original Google Pixel Fold, which we heralded as a "quality-first swing at a foldable," had a few screen issues, according to some users. Last year, it was touted as the thinnest foldable (with the biggest battery) in the US. When the Surface Duo launched, Microsoft also boasted that its first foldable project had record-breaking thinness — it, too, suffered some design issues.

As such, as a tech reviewer who has had experience reviewing foldables, while everyone else thinks "compactness" and "pocketability" when they see the word "thinnest," I'm consumed with fears of fragility.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

On the other hand, I did a little scouring on the internet to determine a consensus of which new features Pixel Fold owners want to see on its successor — and the most common answer was lightness. So I'm not surprised Google went full force with the "slim is in" strategy. After all, they're just giving the people what they want.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is 257 grams, which is lighter than its predecessor (283 grams). The original Pixel Fold is 5.8mm thick unfolded. However, the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold is now 5.1mm thick.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold display is a visual treat

My fears, however, could very well be unsound. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold could launch and not have any issues with delicate hardware at all. And on the plus side, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is one of the most exciting devices I got to play with this year.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I will always have a soft spot for a phone that can unfold into a stunning 8-inch, 2076 x 2152 OLED display. (The external screen has a 6.3-inch, 1080 x 2424-pixel OLED display.) In the words of Brennan Huff from Step Brothers, "there's so much room for activities!"

I could see myself firing up the Pixel 9 Pro Fold for mobile gaming experiences that my narrow Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra can't offer. Mashable's Alex Perry, our resident sports fan who has YouTube TV, was excited about a new multi-view feature that lets him set up four streams in each quadrant. He was fired up at the thought of running multiple Olympic games, a max of four, on a single 8-inch screen.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

And not to mention that the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold continues to be one of the best for anyone seeking to facilitate their multitasking needs. You can run several apps on this bad boy simultaneously.

My favorite, however, was the massive viewfinder that pops up when I used the 10MP inner camera.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Other camera specs worth noting:

• 48MP wide camera

• 10.5MP ultra-wide camera

• 10.8MP telephoto camera

• 10MP front camera

Between the selfie camera and the massive display that's ideal for gaming and long-form articles, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is perfect for consumers who are tired of their limiting, mono-display smartphone.

This one AI feature is worth it for parents

The new "Made You Look" feature on the Google Pixel 9 Pro will pull your heart strings. Only available on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the device takes advantage of its external display to run animations that are designed to attract the attention of children. Once the AI detects that the child is smiling, it will snap the picture without you needing to lift a finger.

"Add Me" in action Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold starts at $1,799 and it's available in Porcelain and Obsidian.

Just keep in mind that the foldable space is still nascent and it may not be the most durable, sturdiest device on the market, but if you're down for being a tech explorer of sorts, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is truly one of the most entertaining devices you can get.

Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs

I got a chance to play around with the Pixel 9 Pro XL, and man, it looks like we have to completely overhaul our understanding of the new Pixel family. First of all, Google no longer has a dual-phone strategy. It's a triple-phone deal now — well, four if you include the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold, too.

You've got the Pixel 9 Pro XL at the top, the Pixel 9 as your entry-level option, and the Pixel 9 Pro smack-dab in the middle.

From left to right: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

It's as if Google is saying, "Hey, we want to be in the big leagues now with Samsung and Apple," which, by the way, also have at least three phones in their flagship lines. The Pixel 9 series also got a price hike. The starting price is now $799, up from $699, another signal that Google wants to compete with the big dogs.

With the last-generation Pixel 8 series, based on optics, a typical consumer will see that there's just a small phone and a big phone — and they'll choose accordingly.

The last-generation Pixel 8 series, with the Pixel 8 Pro (left) and Pixel 8 Pro (right) Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Now, with the new Pixel 9 series, the average Joe will likely think, "Hm, I see two smaller phones and a giant third option."

Credit: Kimberly

Admittedly, it's a smart strategy from Google, as this visual lineup will goad many consumers to opt for most striking, salient phone: the Pixel 9 Pro XL. (And recent market trends, like Apple dropping the mini variant from the iPhone line, indicate that buyers gravitate toward larger phones.)

Now that you understand the new lay of the land for Google Pixel phones, let's dive into my first impressions of the Pixel 9 Pro XL, and by extension, the Pixel 9 Pro since their feature set is wildly similar (save for their displays and battery capacities).

Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs SEE ALSO: Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: What are the differences? Pixel 9 Pro XL hands-on review

Can we talk about the incredible new Super Res Zoom? Featured on the Pixel 9 Pro XL, it can zero in on subjects up to 30x, up from 20x on the Pixel 8 Pro. I tested it inside a building in Lower Manhattan that is about a mile, or 5,280 feet away, from The Edge (the tallest observation deck in the entire Western Hemisphere).

The Edge is circled in red in the far right corner. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

From a window inside a building near Pier 57, I could see The Edge from a distance. I used the Pixel 9 Pro XL to zoom in on The Edge, and suddenly, tiny figures came into view on the viewfinder.

Here's The Edge at 5x zoom (this is the max the Pixel 9 Pro XL can reach on the telephoto's optical zoom before digital zoom kicks in):

Pixel 9 Pro XL at 5x zoom Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Edge at 10x zoom:

Pixel 9 Pro XL at 5x zoom Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

And finally, The Edge at 30x zoom:

Pixel 9 Pro XL at 30x zoom Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I zoomed in so close, I could make out the color of some visitors' lighter-colored shirts. Hell, I could even count how many people were standing on the deck if I had enough patience.

This is the phone you purchase if you attend a lot of concerts and you want to see your favorite artist from the nosebleed seats. I was blown away.

But wait 'til you hear this. Not only has Super Res Zoom gotten an improvement on camera, but it's also coming to video, too. Plus, you can enhance your videos up to 8K with a new feature called Video Boost. Google also says the Night Sight Video feature is better than ever, so you can take better captures in low light.

Both the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Pixel 9 Pro have the same camera system:

• 50MP wide camera

• 48MP ultrawide camera with a 123-degree field of view

• 48MP telephoto

• 42MP selfie camera

Compared to the Pixel 8 Pro, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL's selfie camera jumped to 42MP from 10.5MP. I took selfies with both the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, but we weren't able to secure them to show our readers.

Selfies with the Pixel 9 Pro XL Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

But I will say, compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, I don't look like an ogre due to post-processing tweaks (looking at you, Apple.) Plus, the selfie camera camera now has autofocus.

New design that tweaks the camera bar

The Google Pixel series is known for its signature edge-to-edge camera bar. (I've always joked that the Google Pixel series looks like Star Trek's Geordi La Forge — or Roger Federer with a sweatband).

This is the Google Pixel 8 Pro, which has the edge-to-edge camera bar Credit: Alex Perry / Mashable

Now, Google transformed the feature from a bar to an island.

Pixel 9 Pro XL in Rose Quartz Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Also, unlike the Pixel 8 series, the new Google Pixel 9 series' camera bar is color matched with the chassis. Although the Pixel 9 Pro XL is designed to be the largest of the trio, it didn't feel unwieldy in my hand. But it definitely won't fit in your pockets if they're of the smaller, tighter variety. Plus, I was impressed with the phone's silky matte glass finish, which didn't collect any grease nor fingerprints.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL, as well as the Pixel 9 Pro, comes in Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, and Rose Quartz. I preferred all the colors but Porcelain simply because, all due to my own fault, I accidentally smudged a bit of my own makeup on it after touching my face. As such, I just know I'd want a color that hides stains better. However, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is very easy to clean, no matter which color you get.

Stunning display

Here's where the Pixel 9 Pro XL differs from the Pixel 9 Pro. It packs a 6.8-inch, 1344 x 2992 display while the Pixel 9 Pro has a 6.3-inch, 1280 x 2856 panel. Interestingly, the Pixel 9 Pro is smaller than the Pixel 8 Pro, which is 6.7 inches.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

It still has that attractive hole-punch design, and despite standing in a brightly lit room with sunlight pouring in, the screen was still punchy, clear, and well-illuminated. This is because the Pixel 9 Pro XL (and Pixel 9 Pro) has a peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits compared to the Pixel 8 Pro's 2,400 nits.

Battery life

The rule of thumb is that a larger battery capacity should lead to more battery life. If the Pixel 9 Pro XL follows that rule, it should outpace the Pixel 9 Pro with its 5,060 mAh battery capacity compared to its smaller Pro sibling's 4,700 mAh battery.

Both phones are rated for over 24 hours of battery life and up to 100 hours of battery life with Extreme Battery Saver.

Mind-blowing AI

Thanks to the new Google tensor G4 chip, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, as well as the other Pixel 9 phones, have arguably the best set of AI features I've ever seen on a phone.

For example, with the new Add Me feature, you can take a picture of a group of friends, have someone take a picture of yourself, and AI will merge that photo together as if you were in the original photo:

Add Me feature Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable / Canva

There's also a new AI feature called Reimagine, which lets you select an object in a photo, and with a prompt, you can transform it into anything you want.

With Reimagine, you can transform a road into a raging river. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable / Canva

For more AI features coming to the Google Pixel 9 series, check out our list on the cool new perks coming to the lineup.

Final thoughts

As I hinted at the outset, the new Pixel 9 Pro XL is designed to get people to grab the priciest option since consumers tend to gravitate towards either the most premium option or the entry-level model. Now, the Pixel 9 Pro is the middle child, making it less attractive to consumers.

Last year, the Pixel 8 Pro, the best Pixel phone you could get, set you back $1,000. Now, the best Pixel phone you can get, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, sets you back $1,100.

Again, it's a brilliant strategy on Google's part. Personally, I'd gravitate toward the Pixel 9 Pro XL myself because I always want the best-of-the-best. Plus, long battery runtime is important to me, so I'd opt for the device with the greatest capacity.

Overall, this year's Pixel 9 series proves that Google is serious about competing against the major players in the mobile industry — and this bold move will challenge Samsung and Apple's dominance like never before.

The Pixel Watch 3 proves that Google has been listening to at least some of the feedback users have been voicing about the last-generation Pixel Watch. Many Pixel Watch fans have been begging for a larger model. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 has a 44mm case size and the Apple Watch Series 9 has a 45mm case size, so why can't the Pixel Watch series offer a larger model, too?

For the first time ever, the Pixel Watch series has two models: the traditional 41mm size and a new, larger 45mm. At a recent Google press event, I got a chance to play around with the Pixel Watch 3, including the 45mm size. What are my thoughts? Allow me to delve into them.

SEE ALSO: My Samsung Galaxy Ring just called me out for going to sleep drunk — how is it so creepily accurate? Pixel Watch 3: My first impressions

I'm aware of the wishlist that Pixel Watch fans wanted from the Pixel Watch 3. In addition to a larger screen, users crossed their fingers for longer battery life, enhanced fitness tracking, a more fortified display, and more. I'll address each of these and discuss whether Google has improved them, but first, let's talk about the new 45mm Pixel Watch.

The new larger 45mm Pixel Watch 3

Personally, I have small wrists, so if I had a choice between the 41mm and 45mm case sizes, I'd go for the former. The 41mm case size is more than enough for me.

Pixel Watch 3 41mm case size Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Despite its compact size, the 41mm provided a display that was impressively easy to read without straining my eyes. I zipped and scrolled through numerous icons and swiped through some apps, and the screen was highly visible no matter what I did. This may have something to do with the fact that Google has shrunken the bezels. The Pixel Watch 3 has a 10 percent gen-over-gen reduction (for the 45mm size, it's 16 percent).

Although I was standing in a brightly lit room with sunlight pouring in, the smartwatch screen was still remarkably clear, thanks to being two times brighter than the Pixel Watch 2 (up to 2,000 nits of brightness). Also, I know some users were hoping for a stronger panel, but the Pixel Watch 3 still has the same Gorilla Glass 5 screen as its predecessor.

Pixel Watch 3 41mm case size Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The 45mm Pixel Watch 3 is too large for my tastes, but it's still a visual stunner.

Pixel Watch 3 45mm case size Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Interestingly, for Mashable's Alex Perry, the 45mm was perfect for his more rotund wrist (though, as I'll explain later, a stretchier band would be best for him).

Pixel Watch 3 45mm case size Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable Pixel Watch 3 battery life

We asked a Google rep whether battery life has improved for the Pixel Watch 3. After all, we noticed that better power efficiency is on the wishlists of many Pixel Watch users. Unfortunately, the Pixel Watch 3 is rated for the same runtime as its predecessor: 24 hours with always-on display and up to 36 hours with Battery Saver mode.

Pixel Watch 3 45mm Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

If there's any consolation, there may be a chance to squeeze just a little more battery life with the Pixel Watch 3's dynamic refresh rate, which adjusts from anywhere between 1Hz to 60Hz, depending on your task. There are two positives to this feature:

1. Scrolling and swiping through the apps is as smooth as butter. The Pixel Watch 2 had a 30Hz refresh rate, so this upgrade is welcomed for a more seamless, zippier experience.

2. Dynamic refresh rate typically benefits battery life. This is because it's not constantly refreshing at the same max refresh rate, which reduces energy consumption. This may give the Pixel Watch 3 a slight edge over the Pixel Watch 2 in terms of power efficiency (or maybe that's just wishful thinking), but we'll have to review it to know for sure.

In the end, however, I wouldn't expect a wildly significant gen-over-gen jump in runtime for the Pixel Watch 3.

New workout and health tracking features

There are no show-stopping hardware additions nor any new sensors on the Pixel Watch 3, however, Google made a lot of useful improvements to the software.

Running with the Pixel Watch 3 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Here are some of them the Google rep told me about:

• Enhanced running features now help you design and follow customized run routines, surpass your personal bests, and refine your technique. You can incorporate timed warm-ups and cool-downs, and set specific goals for pace, heart rate, time, and distance.

• Execute your saved running routines with real-time guidance through audio and haptic alerts, which notify you if you fall off your pace or exceed your heart rate target.

• Receive alerts for your next sprint or when it’s time to cool down during your workout.

• Updated media controls let you adjust volume and skip songs without interrupting your workout.

• AI-driven form tracking with advanced motion sensors provides insights into your cadence, stride length, vertical oscillation, and more.

• The new running dashboard in the Fitbit app displays your weekly mileage, personal records, detailed workout analyses, and additional metrics.

But my favorite has to be the Morning Brief feature via Fitbit.

Morning Brief on Pixel Watch 3 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Each morning, Morning Brief delivers a summary based on your health and workout metrics. For example, you'll get a daily digest of how you slept, your readiness score (how prepared your body is for physical exercise), weekly exercise progress, heart-rate variability, breathing rate, and blood-oxygen level.

Weather on Pixel Watch 3 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Plus, you'll also get information about the weather, which is a must-have for me so I can already envision what to wear before I hop out of bed.

Beware of this particular band

The Pixel Watch 3 ships with different band-and-case combinations depending on the case size.

Pixel Watch 3 (41mm):

• Matte Black Aluminum Case and Obsidian Band

• Polished Silver Aluminum Case and Porcelain Band

• Champagne Gold Aluminum Case and Hazel Band

• Polished Silver Aluminum Case and Rose Quartz Band

Pixel Watch 3 (45mm):

• Matte Black Aluminum Case and Obsidian Band

• Polished Silver Aluminum Case and Porcelain Band

• Matte Hazel Aluminum Case and Hazel Band

You can opt to purchase a Stretch Band for the Pixel Watch 3, but I recommend getting any other band (e.g., an Active Band, Leather Band, etc.) but the Stretch Band. I can already tell that it will lose its elasticity over time. It was also too large on me and there was nothing I could do to tighten it.

If you have a more rotund wrist, however, the Stretch Band may be your best bet. For my colleague, the sweat resistant, active bands with a more customizable fit were a bit too snug and did not fit him.

The Pixel Watch 3 starts at $349.99 and it's available at the Google Store

Opens in a new window Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable Pixel Watch 3 $349.99 at Google
Get Deal

You, like myself, likely have a massive library of screenshots that includes everything from funny social media posts and saved order confirmations.

However, scrolling through a gigantic collection of screenshots for that one saved picture is a pain. That's why Google launched the new Screenshots app, which can be found across all new Pixel 9 series devices, including the Pixel 9, the Pixel 9 Pro, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Google walked me through how the Screenshot app works — and it may be one of the must useful AI tools I've seen all year.

SEE ALSO: Samsung Galaxy S24 to come with a new Google AI feature, and it's a cool one Google’s new ‘Pixel Screenshots’ uses AI search to help you find screenshots

At the Made by Google event, the search engine just dropped the Pixel 9 devices, and along with them, Google dropped the new Screenshot app. Using on-device AI that Google calls "Gemini Nano," the app generates a title and summary for each screenshot.

For example, at a recent press event, a Google rep showed me a screenshot of an article that delved into how one can dip dye their hair for a pop of color. The Screenshots app, just like I mentioned, delivered a headline and a summary for the hair guide.

A screenshot of an article about dip dyeing one's hair. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

(The Google rep didn't point this out, but I did notice an "Add a note" option, so I take it that users will be able to add their own annotations in addition to the AI-generated summaries.)

Next, the Google rep demonstrated that if users want to find a saved screenshot, they can use the search bar at the bottom of the app to find it.

Use the search bar on the bottom to find your screenshots. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

For example, the word "boots" was typed into the search bar, which prompted the app to populate screenshots that featured images of boots from a user's shopping journey.

After typing in "boots," Gemini Nano did its job and recognized screenshots with images of boots in them. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

To my surprise, not only can you type in a query, but you can tap on the microphone to speak your request into the search bar. For example, the Google rep asked, "What's the Wi-Fi code at Jared's house?"

The Screenshot app surfaced a Wi-Fi code after a spoken request. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

And just like that, after searching through the user's screenshots, the search was able to surface the right screenshots and reveal Jerrod's Wi-Fi credentials front and center — without requiring much digging.

Just when I thought that the Screenshot couldn't get any better, Google said there are suggested actions for certain screenshots. For example, if you save a screenshot with an address in it, a button that says, "Search in Maps" may appear, allowing you to surface directions via Google Maps.

You may see the "Search in Maps" button if Gemini Nano detects directions in your screenshots. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

As a cherry on top, the Screenshots app lets you set reminders for yourself. Let's say you saved a screenshot of an article, but you're too busy to read it. You can tap on the alarm button to remind yourself to read said screenshot. You can't tell me that's not brilliant!

Google rep sets a reminder to help him remember to read an article about dip dyeing one's hair. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

This isn't the only AI-powered feature that had our jaws dropping. Check out all the other new Google features, including Made You Look, Add Me, Reimagine, Gemini Live, and more.

Google unloaded a wave of new AI features at the Made by Google event today — and one of them is a new Magic Editor feature called "Reimagine." For the uninitiated, Magic Editor was unveiled during the debut of Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, and it allows users to tap into generative AI to make complex photo edits, like object removal and unblurring a hazy, unclear photo.

Now, Google is taking it up a notch alongside the release of the new Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold (whew, that was a mouthful). The search engine giant has dropped a new AI-powered Magic Editor feature called Reimagine, which allows you to select an object in a photo — and transform it into anything you want (within reason, of course) with a prompt.

I was able to see this feature in action at a recent press event, and wow, it blew me away.

SEE ALSO: A Google AI model is improving climate forecasting I watched Google’s new ‘Reimagine’ use AI to transform one object to another

On a Pixel 9 series phone, a Google rep showed us a photo of a road, with a car driving on it, that appeared to be flanked by two cliffs. In the background, you can find an imposing mountain in the distance.

The original photo for Reimagine's editing. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

On the device, the Google rep tapped on the "Edit" button followed by a bottom-right purple icon that led him to the Magic Editor tool. Next, he tapped on the road, which allowed the AI to isolate it from the other elements in the picture. And it shows the user what, exactly, has been isolated with a translucent white overlay,

The Google rep tapped on the road to select it for the Reimagine tool. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Google rep tapped the car, too, adding that as another object in the picture, in addition to the road, that he'd like to isolate for Reimagine.

The car got in on the Reimagine fun, too. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

He hit the "Reimagine" button on the bottom right, which prompted a text field to appear. With the road and car selected in the photo, the Google rep typed in that he'd like to "reimagine" them as a raging river.

The Google repped typed "raging river" as a prompt for Reimagine. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

He hit send. I waited about 15 seconds for the generative AI model to do its thing, and voila, I received some stunning options from the Reimagine tool, with the first one being my favorite.

Reimagine result one Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Reimagine result two Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

You can enjoy Reimagine in all of its glory across the entire Pixel 9 series, which dropped today. Stay tuned for more coverage on Google's new phones as well as the search engine giant's new generative AI developments.

Google’s new “Add Me” feature highlights the company’s efforts to use AI in resolving common issues and improving daily life.

For example, have you ever been designated the "group picture taker," but felt a tinge of disappointment that you, too, couldn't be a part of the group shot? Or perhaps you are in the group photo, and you want the person taking the picture in the shot, but it's just not possible (perhaps there aren't any nearby strangers to take it).

Well, with "Add Me," as the picture taker, you can snap the group photo and end up in the final shot. At a recent Google press event, I had the chance to test the feature firsthand, and I have to say, it’s a solid starting effort from Google, though there are still a few quirks to be aware of.

SEE ALSO: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 unveiled with built-in Google Gemini at Unpacked July 2024 My experience with Google's new 'Add Me' feature

First thing's first, a female Google rep asked me to stand in front of a black background with a male rep. The first thing I instinctively did, as the embarrassing Millennial that I am (I'm surprised I didn't do "duck lips"), was beam the biggest smile and put two peace signs up with both hands. Immediately, the Google rep shook his head and told me to put my arms down.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

With my hands up, it would be too challenging for the AI. The concept here is that we need to take two photos: the group shot and the picture taker. And with my arms flailing all over the place, the AI might struggle to seamlessly blend my raised arms into the final composite image without creating awkward distortions.

Once the "group" picture was taken, we then grabbed a photo of the picture taker.

Here is the original "group" shot Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Google rep told me that the "Add Me" feature, which can be found on the new Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold phones, gives users guidance on where, exactly, the original picture taker should be standing. (In our case, Add Me guided the picture taker to stand next to a nearby plant.)

And here's the final shot:

Final "Add Me" shot Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

And there you have it. Looking at the results of Add Me, you'd never know that the woman in the all-black outfit (i.e., the picture taker) wasn't in the original "group" photo.

The lighting of the second shot matches the original "group" photo so well. Her right arm is brilliantly hiding right behind my arms, just like it would in real life if we took a group photo together in the first place.

Once you've taken the Add Me photo, you can share it and impress your loved ones. Or before that, you can play around with Magic Editor, which also has some impressive AI updates this year.

Google didn't do much to change the Pixel 9 from previous models, but who cares? It's pink now!

That's not the only takeaway from the entry-level Pixel 9 that was announced, alongside three other models, at the Made by Google event on Tuesday. However, it's the biggest one. The Pixel 9's improvements are almost entirely internal — and many of them are software-based rather than centered on hardware enhancements. I got some brief hands-on time with the Pixel 9 at a pre-launch press event — here are my thoughts.

SEE ALSO: Google Chrome is killing one of the most popular ad blockers around Pixel 9 hands-on: Say hello to bubble-gum pink The screen is very bright. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

My time with the Pixel 9 was vanishingly brief, as it's the most basic and vanilla Pixel 9 experience and our demo session largely focused on features on the Pro devices.

With that being said, there are a few cool little improvements worth noting. For starters, the display is brighter than before, with up to 1,800 nits (1,400 nits on Pixel 8) in HDR and 2,700 nits (2,000 nits on Pixel 8) at peak brightness. The battery has also been beefed up just a bit, from 4,575mAh last year to 4,700mAh on Pixel 9. And while storage still unfortunately maxes out at 256GB on Pixel 9, the RAM has gotten a nice bump up from 8GB to 12GB.

Google has outfitted all four Pixel 9 phones with the new Tensor G4 chip, so between that and the increased RAM, users should get better performance out of the Pixel 9 than the Pixel 8. The main rear camera lens is still 50MP, same as a year ago, but the ultra-wide lens has gotten a beefy upgrade from 12MP to 48MP. Pixel 9 still lacks the telephoto lens of its Pro counterpart, but still, you should be able to get good shots out of it.

Sorry to those of you who prefer matte finishes on phones. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I didn't get enough time with the Pixel 9 to tell you exactly how its "hand feel" differs from Pixel 8, but rest assured it's still just about the perfect size and weight for an entry-level phone. Its display does indeed look nice, thanks to the increased brightness and 60-120Hz adaptive refresh rate that blows most Apple devices out of the water.

The rear camera bar has been slightly redesigned, so it no longer fully extends from one side to another. I personally don't mind the change, but you might. There's also a new pink colorway this year that is way more beautiful than anything Google offered a year ago.

The new pink Google Pixel 9 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Lastly, the Tensor G4 chip enables the base Pixel 9 to access most of the same AI features as the other Pixel 9 phones. You can have conversational chats with Gemini, edit photos with greater control than before in Magic Editor, use AI to find specific screenshots you've taken over the years, and more. Really, all you're missing out on with Pixel 9 versus the other options is a third camera lens, or a second screen.

Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs

2023's Barbie summer may be in our rear view, but Google is keeping the love alive with a sweet, new bubblegum hue for its Pixel 9. The pink shade is called "Peony."

Mashable officially asked the powers-that-be for a pink phone back in October 2022, so we're pretty jazzed to finally get one. Apple wimped out on delivering a true pink hue in its most recent iPhone 15 lineup, offering up a barely there, lovely but totally lackluster rose color instead. In June, Razr came through by bringing back a 2024 version of its signature hot pink flip phone.

Feast your eyes on the new pink Pixel 9

But this Pixel 9 pink — it's perfect. This Google device is a delicious hit of dopamine amidst a sea of subdued greys, blues, and blacks.

The Google Pixel 9 Credit: Google

If pink isn't your thing, you have company. Gizmodo called the shade "so disgustingly pink you can taste it," a description that smacks of a personal vendetta against Pepto-Bismol which is, frankly, none of our business.

Anyways, we find the hue as refreshing as strawberry lemonade — and will be savoring it as we soak up the final days of summer.

The Pixel 9, which also comes in Obsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, is available for pre-order today with a starting price of $799. You can grab it in stores on Aug. 22.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 9
Pre-Order Here Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs

This Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max face-off will help you understand how Google's new addition to the Pixel series compares to Apple's most premium flagship phone.

The Pixel series is now more similar to the iPhone series than ever. Instead of having a dual-phone family, Google added a third model this generation. (One could even argue that the Pixel series has a four-phone family if the launch of the new Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold counts.)

Whether you're stuck in iPhone vs. Android analysis paralysis, or you're just curious about the differences between the Pixel 9 Pro XL and iPhone 15 Pro Max, you've come to the right place.

SEE ALSO: I tested Apple Intelligence on my iPhone 15 Pro Max: 3 ways it spoiled me rotten Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max price and specs

The Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at $1,099 and comes with the following specs:

• Google Tensor G4 processor and Titan M2 security coprocessor

• 16GB of RAM

• 128GB of storage

• 6.8-inch, 2992 x 1344-pixel OLED display

• Android 14 (Android 15 coming soon)

You can also upgrade the Pixel 9 Pro XL to 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage variants. In my experience as a phone reviewer, 128GB becomes full in just under two years, so I'd opt for 256GB for worry-free usage (if you have the money to blow, of course).

The iPhone 15 Pro Max, on the other hand, has a starting price tag that is $100 pricier than the Pixel 9 Pro at $1,119 via Apple (or $33 per month for 36 months via Verizon or AT&T via Best Buy) and it comes with the following specs:

• A17 Pro chip

• 8GB of RAM

• 256GB of storage

• 6.7-inch, 2796 x 1290-pixel display

• iOS 17 (iOS 18 coming soon)

With the iPhone 15 Pro Max, you can also upgrade to 512GB and 1TB of storage.

Right off the bat, the biggest difference is the RAM. As a rule, more memory implies that app juggling will be smoother and more seamless. However, in my experience, despite having less memory, the iPhone 15 Pro Max doesn't have any issues with balancing multiple apps. This is likely do to its optimized operating system (iOS manages resources quite effectively without needing too much RAM).

So far, when it comes to pricing, the Pixel 9 Pro XL and iPhone 15 Pro Max are tied. The former may be cheaper, but offers less storage.

TLDR: The Pixel Pro XL may have more RAM (internals that benefit app juggling), but the iPhone 15 Pro Max runs on iOS, which known to be quite efficient at app management, even when multiple apps are running in the background. The Pixel 9 Pro XL's starting price may be $100 cheaper, but it offers less storage.

Winner: Draw

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max $1,119.99 at Best Buy
Get Deal Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max design

Both the iPhone and Pixel series have a signature look, but Google slightly tweaked the design of its new-generation line. For example, the Pixel series' design language once featured a camera bar that extends to the chassis' edges.

Here is last year's Pixel series phones. See how the camera bar extends from edge to edge? The Pixel 9 series now has an island-style camera bar. Credit: Alex Perry / Mashable

However, Google has made the camera bar on the back of the Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the other new Pixels, more island-like.

Holding the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Pixel 9 Pro XL, made out of recycled aluminum. comes in the following colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, and Rose Quartz.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a length of 6.4 inches and is 0.3 inches thick. If you're wondering about how heavy it is, it weighs 7.8 ounces.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max, packed inside a titanium frame, continues to have its triple-camera array on the top-right corner. It comes in four colorways: Black Titanium, White Titanium, Blue Titanium, and Natural Titanium.

Credit: Apple

The iPhone 15 Pro Max is a little shorter than the Pixel 9 Pro XL at 6.3 inches. It's also slightly thicker (0.33 inches).

Both have an IP68 water resistance rating, which means they can handle water submergence of up to about five feet.

TLDR: The Pixel 9 Pro XL has an island-style camera bar on the back while the iPhone 15 Pro Max continues its upper-left camera array signature design language. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is taller and thinner than the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Winner: Pixel 9 Pro XL

Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max display

The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 6.8-inch, 2992 x 1344-pixel display. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, on the other hand, has a 6.7-inch, 2796 x 1290-pixel panel. Based on these specs, the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a slightly larger display and higher resolution.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL's display Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a Ceramic Shield panel, which Apple claims is tougher than other phone displays. The Pixel 9 Pro XL has Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which can be found across the entire non-foldable Pixel 9 line.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL has a less distracting display with a hole-punch selfie camera in the top center. In the same spot, the iPhone 15 Pro Max sports the pill-shaped Dynamic Island, which delivers animated information like Apple Pay transactions, low battery warnings, AirDrop transfers, and more.

iPhone 15 Pro Max Credit: Apple

In my experience, both have a zippy panel. After all, they both support a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Now, let's take a look at brightness:

Pixel 9 Pro XL: Up to 2,000 hits (HDR)

iPhone 15 Pro Max: Up to 1,600 nits (HDR)

When it comes to high dynamic range (HDR) content, the Pixel 9 Pro XL can reportedly climb to 2,000 nits compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max's 1,600 nits.

As far as peak brightness is concerned, the Pixel 9 Pro XL can jump to 3,000 nits. Compare this to the 2,000-nit peak brightness of the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

TLDR: The Pixel 9 Pro XL, compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, has a brighter display as well as a higher resolution panel.

Winner: Pixel 9 Pro XL

Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max cameras

Let's take a look at the selfie camera first:

Pixel 9 Pro XL - 42MP, f/2.2 aperture

iPhone 15 Pro Max - 12MP, f/1.9 aperture

On paper, it appears that the Pixel 9 Pro XL has an edge of the iPhone 15 Pro Max with its selfie camera delivering a higher megapixel count, which should offer better detail and higher-resolution pictures.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

However, the iPhone 15 Pro Max's selfie camera should perform better in dim environments and offer superior bokeh (that cool blurry background effect) due to its wider aperture.

Next, let's check out the wide camera:

Pixel 9 Pro XL - 50MP, f/1.68 aperture

iPhone 15 Pro Max - 48MP, f/1.8 aperture

Here, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, just based on specs alone, appears to have a tiny edge over the iPhone 15 Pro Max when it comes to the main camera, with a slightly higher megapixel count and a possible advantage in low-light conditions.

Thirdly, let's look at the ultrawide camera, which is helpful for capturing as much background as possible. (You'll want to choose this lens for any sweeping landscape shots.)

Pixel 9 Pro XL - 48MP, f/1.7 aperture, 123-degree field of view

iPhone 15 Pro Max - 12MP, f/2.2 aperture, 120-degree field-of-view

Based on the information we have, the Pixel 9 Pro XL should offer a wider field of view compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max. It may also offer more visually pleasing photos in low-light conditions.

iPhone 15 Pro Max Credit: Apple

Based on the megapixel count, the Pixel 9 Pro XL may deliver better details.

Finally, let's check out the telephoto lens, which is ideal for portraits and zoomed-in shots.

Pixel 9 Pro XL - 48MP, f/2.8, aperture, 5x optical zoom

iPhone 15 Pro Max - 12MP, f/2.8, 5x optical zoom

The similarities here are that the Pixel 9 Pro XL and the iPhone 15 Pro Max both rely on the telephoto lens to deliver 5x optical zoom. Once you zoom in beyond 5x, the software kicks in.

On the Pixel 9 Pro XL, it can climb up to 30x digital zoom. I've experimented with it myself, and it's pretty darn incredible. From two miles away inside a building in Manhattan's Pier 57, I could zoom in on sightseers visiting The Edge, the tallest observation deck in New York City.

The Pixel 9 series, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL on the far right. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The iPhone 15 Pro Max's digital zoom can climb up to 25X. Both have excellent telephoto in my experience, but the Pixel 9 Pro XL's Super Res Zoom can hone in on objects just a little bit more.

On paper, it may seem like the Pixel 9 Pro XL has the win. However, there are plenty of other factors at play when it comes to cameras, including image processing, software algorithms, and more.

TLDR: The Pixel 9 Pro XL can zoom in closer on objects compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Pixel 9 Pro XL's cameras appear to outperform the iPhone 15 Pro Max's lenses, but there are other factors to consider. We'll have to test them both first to know for sure.

Winner: Pixel 9 Pro XL

Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max AI features

Apple plays it a little safe when it comes to AI. For consumers who are very privacy focused and concerned about the responsible use of AI, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is the one for you. Earlier this year, the Cupertino-based tech giant debuted Apple Intelligence, Apple's new suite of AI features.

Genmoji is a new Apple Intelligence feature coming to iPhones in the near future. Credit: Apple

Apple Intelligence, which currently has some features available to try on the beta version of iOS 18, offers perks like Call Recording and Writing Tools, as well as AI-powered Siri, Mail, Messages, and Safari.

Apple is taking a very delicate approach with AI. Some of the more complex features, like Genmoji (AI-generated emojis) and Image Playground (AI-generated images via prompts) aren't even available yet for testing. This is likely because Apple wants to take its time with a tricky space like AI.

Google, on the other hand, is going all out. Check out some of the following AI features you can use on the Pixel 9 Pro XL:

• AI-powered weather app - AI-generated summaries of the weather with recommendations on how to dress

• Screenshot search - Find screenshots in your screenshot album with natural language search

• Pixel Studio - Create AI-generated images

• Reimagine - Select an object in any photo and transform it into something else

Below, watch Reimagine transform a road into a raging river. And those don't even scratch the surface of what Google has to offer in terms of AI.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

These features are available now on the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Apple Intelligence will be available some time later this year when iOS 18 officially drops, but some features may be delayed.

TLDR: Apple Intelligence is best for privacy-focused consumers who don't mind that Apple plays it safe when it comes to AI. For those who want to dive head first into AI, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is your best bet.

Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max battery

Apple claims that, according to its video playback battery test, the iPhone 15 Pro Max can last up to 29 hours. Google, on the other hand, reports that the Pixel 9 Pro XL can last over 24 hours based on a mixed usage profile of talk, data, standby and other features.

A Mashable article on the Pixel 9 Pro XL Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Because Google's test is slightly more intensive than Apple's investigation, it's difficult to compare both runtimes. As such, you'll have to wait until we test both phones in-house to determine which truly has the better power efficiency.

Based on past experience, the A-series chip inside the iPhones tend to be more energy efficient compared to the Google Tensor processors inside the Pixels. So if I was a betting woman, I'd put my money on the iPhone 15 Pro Max for best battery life.

Winner: iPhone 15 Pro Max

TLDR: We don't have any tests done yet, but based on past experience, the iPhone 15 Pro Max may beat the Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max: Which is best?

Without having the opportunity to do any in-depth testing, on paper, it looks like the Pixel 9 Pro XL has the edge — for now.

We'll update this page once we've got our hands on the Pixel 9 Pro XL and we review it thoroughly.

A third non-foldable Pixel phone has joined the party at Made by Google 2024.

Google confirmed on Tuesday that, on top of the usual Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro phones coming this year, there will also be a Pixel 9 Pro XL. As you might have already inferred, it's a bigger version of the Pixel 9 Pro. That isn't the only difference, but it's the main one. It comes in four colors, the same as Pixel 9 Pro: Obsidian, Porcelain, Rose Quartz, and Hazel.

SEE ALSO: 'Google is a monopolist’: Google loses huge antitrust case over search Google Pixel 9 Pro and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL specs

In almost every way, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is exactly the same as the Pixel 9 Pro.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Here are the basic specs, with deviations from the Pixel 9 Pro noted in parentheses:

• 6.8-inch display (6.3-inch on Pixel 9 Pro)

• 1344 x 2992 resolution (1280 x 2856 on Pixel 9 Pro)

• Tensor G4 chip

• 16GB RAM

• 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB storage options

• 5060mAh battery (4700mAh on Pixel 9 Pro)

To summarize, these two phones are identical, save for the display and battery size. Their colors are the same, their cameras are the same, everything is the same except one is bigger and lasts longer. What's actually interesting about the Pixel 9 Pro XL is how it compares to last year's models.

The Pixel 9 Pro (left) and Pixel 8 Pro (right) Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Last year, the Pixel 8 had a 6.2-inch display and the Pixel 8 Pro had a 6.7-inch display. That means the 6.3-inch Pixel 9 Pro is actually greatly downsized from the Pixel 8 Pro, while the 6.8-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL is roughly the same size. In actuality, Google didn't make the Pixel 9 Pro XL all that larger; it made the Pixel 9 Pro smaller.

For folks with small hands, it could be a godsend. And for folks who want a bigger display, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is there for you.

Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs Google Pixel 9 specs

In addition to the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro, we also have, of course, our entry-level darling: the Google Pixel 9.

Google Pixel 9 in pink. Other colors include obsidian, porcelain and wintergreen. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Here are the specs, with gen-over-gen differences noted in parentheses:

• 6.3-inch display (6.2 inches on Pixel 8)

• 1080 x 2424 OLED display (1080 x 2400 pixels on Pixel 8)

• Tensor G4 chip (Tensor G3 on Pixel 8)

• 12GB RAM (8GB RAM on Pixel 8)

• 128GB and 256GB storage options

• 4700 mAh battery (4575 mAh battery on Pixel 8)

The Pixel 9 starts at $799. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL have starting prices of $999 and $1,099, respectively. Pre-orders start today, but the devices will hit store shelves on Aug. 22.

With this Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8 in-depth comparative analysis, you'll get a better understanding on the differences between the two.

The Made by Google 2024 event kicked off today, and the Pixel 9 is finally here (along with a bunch of other next-gen Pixel goodies) And from what we see, the latest Pixel flagship ups the ante over the already successful Pixel 8. 

The Pixel 9 has plenty of upgrades: a bigger display in a slightly thinner form factor, a larger battery capacity with faster charging speeds, greater performance with a next-gen Tensor chip, and more RAM. Oh, and did we mention that there's a healthy dose of AI features, thanks to Google Gemini?

SEE ALSO: What to expect at Made by Google 2024 Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8 price and specs

An unfavorable change between the Pixel 9 and Pixel 8 is their starting price. Yes, you’ll find that specs have improved, but the the days of Google’s base Pixel being a value purchase are now behind us. 

The Pixel 9 now starts at $799 and is available at the Google Store. That’s a $100 increase over the $699 Pixel 8, which already saw a $100 bump in price over the $599 Pixel 7. As you can tell, Google has raised the price of its base Pixel phones by $200 over the past two years.

Google Pixel 9 Credit: Mashable

Fortunately, the Pixel 9’s specs impress:

• 6.3-inch Actua (1080 x 2424 resolution) display

• Up to 2,700 nits of peak brightness

• 60Hz-120Hz refresh rate

• Tensor G4 processor

• 12GB RAM

• 128GB or 256GB storage

• 4,700mAh battery

• IP68 rating

• Rear camera: 50MP wide lens, 48MP ultrawide lens with Macro Focus

• Super Res Zoom up to 8x

• 10.5MP Dual PD selfie camera

Google Pixel 8 Credit: Google

Here’s how it compares to the Pixel 8:

• 6.2-inch Actua (1080 x 2400 resolution) display

• Up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness

• 60Hz-120Hz refresh rate

• Tensor G3 processor

• 8GB RAM

• 128GB or 256GB storage

• 4,575mAh battery

• IP68 rating

• Rear camera: 50MP wide lens, 12MP ultrawide lens with Macro Focus

• Super Res Zoom up to 8x

• 10.5MP Dual PD selfie camera

It’s clear the Pixel 9 brings some interesting upgrades, particularly to the front camera. Google already knocked it out of the park with the Pixel 8’s cameras (as our photo samples can attest), so bringing over the Pixel 8 Pro’s 48MP ultrawide lens to the Pixel 9 will only give it more praise.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mashable Google Pixel 9 $799.00
Shop Now Google Pixel 8 $699.00 at Amazon
Shop Now Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8 display

The Pixel 9 brings the OLED display back to form after the Pixel 8 slightly reduced its screen size, but we’re also getting a substantial boost in brightness. 

Google Pixel 9 Credit: Mashable

The Pixel 9 comes equipped with a 6.3-inch Actua display with 1080 x 2424 resolution, a 20:9 aspect ratio, and up to a 120Hz refresh rate. You can also expect up to 1,800 nits of HDR brightness and up to 2,700 nits of peak brightness, which is a 35 percent increase over the Pixel 8. Interestingly, the Pixel 9 also offers a 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, meaning richer image details. 

These are incremental, yet noteworthy, improvements over the Pixel 8, which differs in its 6.2-inch Actua display with a 1080 x 2400 resolution, up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness, and 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. 

To sum it up: Bigger screen = better results. 

Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8 design

Google keeps its distinct “Pixel look” with its new Pixel 9 lineup, but scraps the usual camera visor wrapped around the phone for a wide camera island. It’s an interesting change in form. And if you weren’t a fan of the Pixel 8's compact size, you’ll be happy to know the Pixel 9 has gained in size (and weight). 

The Pixel 9 comes in at 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm and weighs 198g, which is slightly bigger than last year’s model, but also thinner. This is closer to the Pixel 7’s bigger size, but acts more as a happy medium between its past two iterations. 

Google Pixel 9 Credit: Mashable

To compare, the Pixel 8 measures 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9 mm and weighs 187g. While the Pixel 9 has added a few grams, the Pixel 8 is slightly thicker. The Pixel 8 is praised for its pocketable design — and it's clear the Pixel 9 tries to keep that while adding more space for its bigger display.

Size isn’t the only change, as the Pixel 9 comes with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back of the phone, giving it extra scratch resistance over the Pixel 8’s Corning Gorilla Glass Victus cover glass on the display. 

Google Pixel 8 Credit: Google

Color-wise, the Pixel 9 comes in the usual Obsidian and Porcelain, along with two new color options: Wintergreen and Peony. No Hazel or Rose colors as per the Pixel 8, but a similar green and pink color scheme, respectively. 

Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8 performance

It’s hardly a surprise the Pixel 9 comes with a next-gen Tensor chip under the hood, but what is a welcome bonus is the upgraded RAM over the Pixel 8. This means more room for demanding apps to shine. 

Google Pixel 9 Credit: Mashable

Expect an upgraded Google Tensor G4 chipset and 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM in the Pixel 9, along with the usual 128GB or 256GB storage options. It’s still early days to tell how much of a performance boost the G4 processor will bring, but it’s sure to aid in the new AI features arriving, such as Pixel Screenshots. 

The Pixel 8’s Tensor G3 chip and 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM offered great performance, especially for its price, but we’ll be expecting a tad more “oomph” now that the Pixel 9’s starting price has gone up.

Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8 battery life

The Pixel 8 offers good battery life, lasting over 24 hours on a single charge in our tests. However, the Pixel 9 dishes out a larger battery capacity and faster charging speeds, which should (hopefully) change from “good” to “great.”

Now boasting a 4,700mAh battery capacity and charging speeds rated at up to 55 percent in about 30 minutes, the Pixel 9 claims to last over 24 hours and up to 100 hours with Extreme Battery Saver mode turned on. This will be needed with its brighter display capabilities, but we’re always happy to see enhanced battery life. 

Google Pixel 8 Credit: Google

The Pixel 8’s 4,575mAh battery can last up to 72 hours with Extreme Battery Saver and charge up to 50 percent in 30 minutes, meaning the Pixel 9 may not offer a major boost in battery life. Still, an extra hour or two is always welcome.

Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8 cameras

We love to see it; Pro camera features trickling down to the base Pixel models. This time, the Pixel 9 will see a 48MP ultrawide lens rather than the Pixel 8’s less impressive 12MP ultrawide camera. 

The Pixel 9 comes with a 50MP wide camera, a 48MP ultrawide camera, and a 10.5MP selfie camera. Putting the absence of a telephoto lens to one side, it means the Pixel 9 comes with the same quality camera capabilities as the Pixel 8 Pro, and we gave high praise to the snaps it could take. 

Google Pixel 9 Credit: Mashable

The ultrawide lens is the only real change over the Pixel 8, which boasts the same 50MP wide camera and 10.5MP front camera. Otherwise, it’s all about Google’s image processing and AI Magic features that make all your photos sparkle. 

Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8 software and AI

Google continues to impress with seven years of OS and security upgrades, which can be found on both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 8. Of course, with the Pixel 9 starting with Android 14 onboard, new owners will get an extra year of support. 

The release of the Pixel 9 lineup also brings new AI features, with Gemini helping out with Google apps like Gmail and Maps. Pixel Screenshots, for example, lets you save, organize, and recall things you want to remember, and camera AI features offer improvements to Night Sight, Magic Editor, and more. 

Google Pixel 9 Credit: Mashable

However, it’s not like the Pixel 8 won’t get these updates, but the Pixel 9 is sure to be better equipped to handle them.

Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8: Worth the upgrade?

With the $100 increase, it becomes harder to recommend Google’s base Pixels as value-for-money smartphones. The improvements to the Pixel 9’s hardware are obvious, making it the best a base Pixel has ever been. But that comes with the territory with every annual release, and some may find an inevitably discounted Pixel 8 is more than enough to satisfy their smartphone needs.

Regardless, we’ll still need more hands-on time with the Pixel 9 to find out its true worth. While we get on that, check out all the other big Pixel announcements from the Made by Google 2024 event, including the new Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel Watch 3, and Pixel Buds Pro 2. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Mashable Google Pixel 9 $799.00
Get Deal Google Pixel 8 $699.00 at Amazon
Get Deal