Pixel 9 Pro XL owners report problems with the camera
Since the launch on August 22, 2024, the new smartphones from the Google Pixel 9 series have revealed both strengths and weaknesses. While the new Tensor G4 chip underperformed in early benchmarks and lacked impact in gaming tests, the Pixel 9 Pro XL excelled in DxoMark's evaluations, particularly with its outstanding display and strong camera performance. It was praised for its correct lighting, wide dynamic range and improved autofocus. However, a growing number of Pixel 9 Pro XL users are reporting an annoying problem with the camera.
In a Reddit thread which was started on August 26, several users reported a "tilted" image that occurs particularly in the zoom range from 2x to 5x and when switching between the different lenses - especially the telephoto and ultra-wide-angle lens. A user has shared a video on Imgur that illustrates this phenomenon. Some describe the problem as occurring sporadically, while others report that the camera lens seems to tilt constantly.
A temporary solution that some of those affected have come across is to manually select the lenses. Google has not yet issued an official statement on the issue. It remains unclear whether the problem can be fixed by a software update or whether a hardware replacement is required.