The Google Pixel 9 Pro is currently available for $749 on Amazon, reflecting a significant discount of $250 from its retail price during the Prime Day sale.
Last year, I was firm in my belief that I was done with Pixel phones, especially following Google’s announcement to enhance Android with more artificial intelligence features. I saw this as the right moment to switch brands.
I had my sights set on the Nothing Phone 3, but shortly after, CEO Carl Pei revealed that Nothing would fully embrace AI, making their next phone a frontrunner in the technology race.
Shortly thereafter, I revisited the Pixel 9 Pro series, as Google aimed to restore the ‘flagship’ designation to its lineup. This time, the company opted for a refined design, avoiding previous hardware missteps such as the bulky camera hump and excessively slick glass.
Upon ordering my device and trading in my Pixel 8 Pro, I received an impressive $700 in credit. Two weeks later, my pink Pixel 9 Pro arrived, and my first impression was clear: “Now this is a flagship device.”
The build quality is excellent, the aesthetic is appealing, and even before turning it on, I could sense its premium feel. The phone features flat edges that enhance its refined appearance, making it much easier to grip and use compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 8 Pro, which often slipped from my hands.
The Pixel 9 Pro is not only comfortable to hold but visually striking as well. While it bears some resemblance to the iPhone, I consider that a compliment, as Apple’s consistent design suggests it works effectively and conveys that it is a top-tier device.
The camera bump has also seen improvements. In previous models, it detracted from the overall look, appearing somewhat accidental. In the latest design, it appears intentional and blends seamlessly with the phone’s aesthetic. The Pixel 9 Pro is also slightly shorter than the Pixel 7 Pro and 8 Pro, contributing to its enhanced usability.
Transferring data from my old Pixel to the new one was much simpler with the Pixel 9, utilizing Bluetooth instead of the traditional USB-C connection. This streamlined process was remarkably quick, marking it as the easiest transition I’ve experienced between Pixel devices.
However, not all data transferred seamlessly; only my Gmail account was automatically integrated, requiring me to manually log into other apps—something I expected.
I also opted for a clear case designed for magnetic accessories, a practical addition.
My experience with Google’s flagship devices has been exceptional since the Pixel 6 Pro, and the Pixel 9 Pro elevates that performance further. Now, Android displays fluid animations comparable to those of iOS, with instant app launches and a smoothly operating App Drawer, free from stutters.
The display on the Pixel 9 Pro is remarkable. I usually disable the Ambient Display feature due to its overly dim settings, but with this model, I haven’t felt the need. The display adapts well to light changes without becoming unviewable, and at maximum brightness, it’s impressively vibrant—so much so that it occasionally feels too bright.
Just the other night, I forgot to charge my phone, and when I checked it in the morning, there was still 76% battery remaining. Throughout the day, I used it moderately, and by evening, the battery level was still at a solid 50%. While this isn’t a formal benchmark, it indicates that the Pixel 9 Pro has impressive endurance.
In summary, it’s still early in my experience with the Pixel 9 Pro, but I am confident that Google has created a device deserving of the flagship title. I’m looking forward to seeing how Android 15 performs on this impressive handset.
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