Google finally embraces compact flagship form factor with Pixel 9 Pro release
In recent years, Google has only offered two flagship smartphones. Arguably, that changed last year though with the introduction of the Pixel Fold last year though, which the company has just replaced with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. However, Google has also decided to go even further with the Pixel 9 series by introducing what amounts to an iPhone 15 Pro and soon-to-be iPhone 16 Pro rival.
As countless leaks suggested, Google has effectively scaled down its flagship offering into a smaller form factor. Specifically, the Pixel 9 Pro measures 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm, putting it within striking distance of the Xiaomi 14 (curr. $764 on Amazon). While these dimensions make Google's smartphone larger than the Galaxy S24 and iPhone 15 Pro, Google has used that space to include a few features that its competitors lack.
For example, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 Pro with a 4,700 mAh battery, as well as a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display that outputs at 1280p (2,856 x 1,280), 120 Hz and up to 3,000 nits (HBM). Moreover, the device matches the iPhone 15 Pro by offering ultra-wideband (UWB) and satellite SOS connectivity. Furthermore, Google has equipped its alternative with the following cameras:
- Primary: 50 MP, f/1.68 aperture, 82° FoV, 1/1.31-inch sensor
- Ultra-wide-angle: 48 MP, f/1.7 aperture, 123° FoV, 1/2.55-inch sensor
- Telephoto: 48 MP, f/2.8 aperture, 22° FoV, 1/2.55-inch sensor, 5x optical zoom
- Front camera: 42 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 103° FoV
As expected, the Pixel 9 Pro comes in four colour options, which Google sells as Obsidian, Hazel, Porcelain and Rose Quartz. Please note that there are a few storage limitations, with 1 TB being exclusive to the Obsidian variant. Also, Google has decided to only offer Rose Quartz with 256 GB of storage. For reference, full US pricing details are as follows:
- 128 GB - $999
- 256 GB - $1,099
- 512 GB - $1,219
- 1 TB - $1,449
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