During the ‘Made by Google’ event on August 13, the search and tech giant unveiled four new phones from its Pixel 9 line-up, featuring cutting-edge AI features and Gen AI integration. Naturally, many users are interested in knowing just how much of an upgrade the Google Pixel 9 really is and whether one should choose the base variant of its predecessor or fork out some extra cash for the top-of-the-line model.
While some predictions were made on the basis of leaked specs, let’s take a look at the confirmed features below.
(Unravel the complexities of our digital world on The Interface podcast, where business leaders and scientists share insights that shape tomorrow’s innovation. The Interface is also available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.)
Google Pixel 9 | Google Pixel 8 | |
Price | ₹79,999 | ₹58,999 |
Storage | 12 + 256 GB | 8 + 128/256 GB |
Battery | 4,700 mAh | 4,485 mAh |
Performance | Google Tensor G4 /Titan M2 security coprocessor | Google Tensor G3/Titan M2 security coprocessor |
Display | 6.3-inch OLED Actua | 6.2-inch OLED Actua |
In terms of camera set-ups, Google boosted the Pixel 9 with a 50 MP main camera, a 48 MP ultrawide camera, and a 10.5 MP front camera for selfies. The Pixel 8 has largely the same specs, but comes with a 12 MP ultrawide camera with auto-focus. The photo and video editing features are largely the same.
The Pixel 9 provides up to 100 hours of battery life with the Extreme Battery Saver, while the Pixel 8 supplies up to 72 hours with the same mode.
Both phones fall under the premium segment and come with a 60–120 Hz Smooth Display. The Pixel 9 offers up to 2,700 nits of peak brightness, compared to the Pixel 8 phone’s up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness.
Pre-orders for the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL will start from August 14 in India. All the phones will be available on Flipkart, Reliance Digital, as well as Croma, for the first time ever in India.