Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Leaked Hands-on: A First Look at Its Stunning New Design and Features

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is generating buzz even before its official release. Thanks to a lucky break, a YouTuber on Andro-News.com managed to get their hands on one early. While we might wonder how they pulled it off, the real excitement comes from seeing the device in action. My initial impression? The design is quite impressive.

Designer: Google

The Pixel 9 Pro XL marks a significant shift for Google in aesthetics. The flat edges, reminiscent of the iPhone, give it a sleek, modern look that sets it apart from previous models with rounded edges. This change makes the phone look more streamlined and sophisticated. The polished metal frame feels premium, although it might be prone to scratches like the iPhone 13 Pro Max. The back of the phone is made of Gorilla Glass Victus 2 with a matte finish, combining durability with a refined appearance. The phone is also IP68 certified, protecting against dust and water.

Another highlight is the 6.8-inch LTPO display on the Pixel 9 Pro XL. With a resolution of 1344×2992 pixels and a 120 Hz refresh rate, the screen offers vibrant colors and excellent contrast, perfect for watching videos and browsing photos. The flat screen, a departure from the 2.5D curved edges of earlier models, enhances the device’s sleek and modern look. HDR10+ support ensures that the visual experience is top-notch.

One of the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s most talked-about features is its camera system. The camera bump houses three lenses: a 50 MP wide-angle, a 48 MP ultra-wide with autofocus, and a 48 MP periscope telephoto with 5x optical zoom and optical image stabilization. Additional elements like a temperature sensor, flash, extra microphone, and a white balance sensor enhance its photographic capabilities. The front camera has been significantly upgraded to a 42 MP sensor, promising sharper selfies and video calls.

Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro XL runs on Google’s Tensor G4 chip, offering a 15% performance boost over the previous generation and emphasizing energy efficiency. While it might not compete directly with the latest Snapdragon chips in sheer power, the Tensor G4 ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks. The battery is confirmed to be 5,050 mAh, improving efficiency for more prolonged use between charges.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL ships with Android 15 and will receive updates for seven years, ensuring long-term support and security. AI features like the Pixel Screenshot function use artificial intelligence to provide contextual information based on user screenshots. Additionally, the device includes a one-year subscription to Gemini Advanced, offering advanced language models, cloud storage, and document analysis tools.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL holds up well compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 Ultra. It offers a comfortable grip with dimensions similar to the iPhone 15 Pro Max but is slightly taller. The flat edges might appeal to users who prefer a less sharp-edged device compared to the Galaxy S24 Ultra. The new color options — black, gray, pink, and porcelain — offer more personalized choices.

Overall, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL impresses with its sleek design, solid performance, and innovative AI features. While it might not lead in raw processing power, its focus on energy efficiency, excellent cameras, and long-term software support make it a compelling choice in the flagship smartphone market. The various memory options and colors offer a premium experience that caters to a wide range of users.