Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 XL: Release Date, Leaks and Rumours

Just before the holiday season, Google introduces its latest Pixel lineup, featuring two devices: the smaller Google Pixel and the larger Google Pixel Pro. Last October, Google unveiled the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, which are considered some of the best Pixels to date. These new models come with updated hardware and AI technology, positioning them to compete with top players like Apple and Samsung. Google’s strategy typically involves releasing a more affordable Pixel A series device followed by a more powerful flagship Pixel. This time around, Google appears to have bigger plans for the upcoming Google Pixel 9 series including Pixel 9 XL.

The tech giant aims to revamp this year’s Pixel lineup, especially in terms of design and the number of smartphones it plans to launch. In this article, we’ll explore everything from the redesigned look of the Google Pixel 9 series to the potential new sizes for the Google Pixel 9 Pro and a rumoured new addition, the Pixel 9 Pro XL. We’ll also touch on the possible release date for these new Google Phones.

Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 XL: Release Date, Leaks and Rumours

Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro: A New Look and Camera Island:

The current flagship models, Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, feature a rounded design that fits comfortably in the hand. However, leaked images suggest that Google is moving towards a flat design similar to current iPhones. This change could make the smartphones more grippy but potentially less comfortable to hold, resembling the feel of an iPhone. Google is also reportedly planning to equip all three (possible) models with flat edges.

Another notable change is the transformation of the camera bar on the back into a camera island, as indicated by images shared by MySmartPrice X OnLeaks. Unlike their predecessors, the Google Pixel 9 and Google Pixel 9 Pro, and possibly the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, will house the rear camera in this redesigned camera island.

According to OnLeaks, the flat frame design also relocates the volume rocker and power button to the right side of the smartphone. The left side remains clean but houses the antenna lines. The bottom of the phone retains the SIM card tray, Type-C port, and speaker grille as usual.

Google Pixel 9 Pro: Compact Size with Improvements:

The Google Pixel 9 Pro is expected to undergo more significant changes compared to the Pixel 8 Pro. One notable change is its smaller size, which could also mean a smaller battery capacity, although details on this are not yet available. The exact dimensions of the Google Pixel 9 Pro are reportedly 152.8 x 71.9 x 8.5 mm, making it smaller than its predecessor. The Pixel 9 Pro will feature a flat 6.2-inch display with a central cut-out for the selfie camera. It will also feature uniform bezels on all four sides.

Google Pixel 9 Pro: Enhanced Camera System:

Rumours suggest that the Google Pixel 9 Pro could feature three camera sensors, including a wide-angle camera, an ultra-wide-angle camera, and an updated telephoto lens. The use of larger sensors on the camera island hints at the possibility of variable aperture support, although this has not been confirmed. Google may be following Apple’s approach by potentially offering a less powerful camera system in the Pixel 9 Pro, reserving a better camera system or at least a better telephoto lens for a future model.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: The Ultimate Flagship:

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL could be the flagship model that enthusiasts have been anticipating. While there are no confirmed specifications for this device, it will share the same design language as the Google Pixel 9 and 9 Pro. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL will feature a 6.5-inch flat display, slightly smaller than last year’s flagship Google Pixel 8 Pro. The dimensions of the Pixel 9 Pro XL will be 162.7 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm, similar to those of the Pixel 8 Pro.

If the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is indeed released, it could serve as the missing piece in Google’s lineup, appealing to all audiences with a mid-range phone (Pixel A), two flagships for those seeking premium features without the ultra-premium price, and an ultra-flagship for enthusiasts.

Google Pixel 9: Upgraded SoC, the Tensor G4:

As expected, the Google Pixel 9 series will come with a new System on Chip (SoC), the Tensor G4. This new SoC will offer improved thermal management and energy efficiency, thanks to Samsung’s new 4nm process node. Google continues to collaborate with Samsung to develop the Tensor G4, which will utilize the new FOWLP (Fan-out Wafer Level Packaging) packaging method, resulting in better thermal management and efficiency.

Recently, a Google smartphone bearing the codename TOKAY appeared in the Geekbench 5 database. While it’s not confirmed to be an upcoming Pixel 9 series device, the scores indicate that it is a powerful chipset. The Google TOKAY comes with 8GB of RAM, paired with a Mali G715 GPU, and runs on Android 14. The listing shows all eight cores, with four clocked at 1.95 GHz, three at 2.60 GHz, and one at 3.10 GHz.

Google Pixel 9: Expected Pricing and Release Date:

If the rumours are accurate, the Google Pixel 9 series could compete directly with Samsung and Apple in terms of pricing. Assuming the Pixel 9 Pro XL is part of the lineup, the Google Pixel 9 series will cost slightly higher than the Pixel 8 series. The expected prices are $799 for the Google Pixel 9, $999 for the Google Pixel 9 Pro, and $1099 for the Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Traditionally, Google unveils its flagship Pixel devices during Google I/O, with an official release in October. This year, too, we can expect that Google will launch the Pixel 9 series in October 2024. However, these details are based on speculation, and there is no confirmed information regarding pricing or release date, so it’s best to approach this information with caution.