2024 has been quite a busy year for Google – following the launch of the Pixel 8a, the arrival of several new AI features as well as updates to its many products and services, the Mountain View company has certainly been on a roll. Sure, you cold probably say that it’s the same story every year, but there’s an undeniable sense of excitement whenever word of an upcoming Google Pixel phone is on the horizon.
We’re of course referring to the upcoming Pixel 9 series, which is set to arrive soon. Google still hasn’t announced the phone for obvious reasons, but that hasn’t stopped us from putting together this quick list of what we know about the phone. With that being said, let’s take a look!
Release Date
Google recently confirmed that it will be launching the Pixel 9 on the 13th of August, posting a teaser image and video on its social media pages denoting the date of the launch event. It’s interesting to see the company launch its flagship devices so early in the year, as Google has traditionally launched previous Pixel flagships in October, a month after Apple’s new iPhones. There have been some August launches before such as the Pixel 4a and 5a, although again this might be the start of a new marketing strategy from Google.
A New Design… Sort Of
In terms of design, Google is also shaking things up a bit this year. The Pixel 9 will still feature the signature camera bar that began with the Pixel 6 series, although it will now be designed as a separate island on the rear panel, similar to the setup on the Pixel Fold cameras. The new model will also feature flat sides and a flat rear panel, quite similar to the look of Apple’s iPhones.
Three Different Models
Another aspect that will be changing this year is Google’s approach to multiple flagship models – whereas previous Pixel generations mostly came with two flagship variants (a regular and Pro model), the company will now be offering three different flagship variants. This will include the base model Pixel 9, a small Pixel 9 Pro model, and a larger Pixel 9 Pro XL. There are even rumors that Google will no longer be making a Pixel 9 “A” model, suggesting that the Pixel 8a is the last Google midrange device.
Sticking with Tensor
The Pixel 9 series will be powered by Google’s next-gen chipset, the Tensor G4. For context, Google moved on from using Qualcomm chips in its phones and introduced the first-generation Tensor with the Pixel 6, working with Samsung in order to produce the chip. With that in mind, the Tensor series SoCs haven’t been the most popular among enthusiasts due to complaints of power efficiency and thermals, most of which blame in part due to Samsung’s fabrication process. Google is reported to be working with TSMC for future Tensor chips, but not until the G5 next year.
Display Technology
The launch of the Pixel 8 series last year saw a significant upgrade with regards to display quality. With the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, Google used a new “Actua” display which allowed for higher refresh rates and brighter displays. With that said though, recent reported predict that Google has worked with Samsung to integrate the latter’s latest OLED panels into the Pixel 9. Dubbed the “M14” panel, it’s claimed that this will be the same screen that Apple will use for the iPhone 16.
What are you hoping to see from the Pixel 9 series? Let us know in the comments below!
