New Cameras and Tensor G4: What We Know About the Pixel 9 Series One Day Before Launch
Google is set to unveil its Pixel 9 flagship lineup very soon, featuring four models: the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and the foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Here's a roundup of all the insider information about the new devices on the eve of their premiere.
Design and Hardware:
Leaked renders and live photos have already given us a glimpse of the upcoming Pixels. The design sees a couple of noteworthy changes: the rear camera module now resides in an oval-shaped bump, ditching the metallic visor. The bodies will be more angular, while all models retain glossy backs and flat edges. The display bezels are now uniformly thin on all sides. The color palette has also become more diverse. The Pixel 9 will be available in black, white, pink, and green. The "Pro" models get more subdued shades: gray, light pink, black, and porcelain. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold will be limited to two designs: dark and white.
Under the hood, all devices will be powered by the octa-core Tensor G4 chip. Still manufactured using a 4nm process, it won't offer a significant performance leap. Preliminary benchmarks suggest an 11% improvement in single-core performance and a 3% boost in multi-core scenarios compared to the Tensor G3. The Mali-G715 GPU will see slightly higher clock speeds. The 5G modem and neural processing unit will also receive upgrades. Satellite connectivity will be supported, and the Titan M2 chip will ensure system security.
Displays, Cameras, and Prices:
All devices in the series will sport OLED panels with refresh rates up to 120Hz. The displays are rumored to have the following specifications:
- Pixel 9: 6.2” (FHD+), peak brightness - 1800 nits
- Pixel 9 Pro: 6.3” (2856x1280), peak brightness - 2050 nits
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: 6.73” (2992x1344), peak brightness - 2050 nits
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: 7.6” (internal, QXGA+) and 6.3” (external, FHD+)
A more reliable ultrasonic fingerprint scanner will be located under the displays. The Pixel 9 will offer 12GB of RAM, while all higher-end models, including the foldable 9 Pro Fold, will come with 16GB. Battery capacity is expected to be 4700mAh for the base Pixel, 5050mAh for the Pixel 9 Pro, 5400mAh for the 9 Pro XL, and 4800mAh for the 9 Pro Fold.
The cameras are also getting a significant upgrade. The entry-level Pixel 9 will traditionally feature three image sensors: a Samsung GNK main sensor (50MP), a Sony IMX858 ultrawide (50MP), and a Samsung 3J1 front-facing camera (10.3MP). The Pro versions will add a Sony IMX858-based telephoto lens (50MP) to the rear camera array. This same sensor will also be used for the selfie camera. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold will be equipped with different cameras: a Sony IMX787 main sensor (64MP), a Samsung 3LU ultrawide (12MP), a 3J1 telephoto lens (10MP), and a 3K1 front-facing camera (10MP).
Expected starting prices for the Pixel 9 series in the European market:
- Pixel 9: €899
- Pixel 9 Pro: €1099
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: €1199
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: €1899
The Google presentation will take place on August 13th.
