© Google © Presse-citron
Google has just announced its new generation of smartphones, the Pixel 9. Let's find out together what makes the old and the new generation of the most accessible of the range.
A revised and corrected design
Pixel 9 © Google
Pixel 8 © Google
The Pixel 9 takes a more mature approach to design. Gone are the subtle curves of the Pixel 8, in favor of a more angular, contemporary look. The screen and back of the phone now feature completely flat glass, following the current market trend.
The other most notable change concerns the camera module. Emblematic of the range since the Pixel 6, it now detaches from the frame to emerge from the back of the device, recalling the design of the Pixel Fold. This new look could divide, but it undeniably brings a touch of novelty.
The aluminum frame opts for a matte finish, contrasting with the glossy glass on the back. In terms of colors, we expect to see the Pixel 9 in Porcelain, Peony Pink, Jade, and Obsidian Black, replacing the Pixel 8's Mint, Hazelnut, Obsidian, and Rose hues.
- Verdict: Google Pixel 9 for its premium design
A slightly larger screen and a faster reader
While the Pixel 8 had a 6.2-inch screen, its successor has moved to 6.3 inches. A minimal increase with more rounded corners.
The maximum brightness, already impressive on the Pixel 8 with its 2000 nits, this time increases to a peak of 2700 nits. Enough to be able to quietly use the Pixel 9 in a brightly lit environment.
A major advance comes from the fingerprint reader. Like the Galaxy S24, the Pixel 9 adopts an ultrasonic sensor, faster and more precise than the optical sensor of the Pixel 8. A welcome change that would put an end to one of the few criticisms leveled at the previous generation.
- Verdict: Google Pixel 9 for its larger, brighter screen and its new fingerprint sensor
More power under the hood
The heart of the Pixel 9 will beat to the rhythm of the new Google Tensor G4 processor, etched in 4nm. While a performance improvement is expected over the Pixel 8's G3, the jump is not expected to be spectacular. Google still prioritizes AI capabilities over raw power.
200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000The amount of RAM has also been increased to boost the onboard AI features. The Pixel 8 had 8 GB, its successor crosses the 12 GB mark.
On the software side, the Pixel 9 will ship with Android 15, while the Pixel 8 will receive the update upon release. Both devices benefit from 7 years of support, including major updates, security patches and new features.
Photography, still the flagship of the Pixel
Pixel 9 Pro © Google
Google equips the Pixel 9 with a 50 MP sensor and a 48 MP ultra-wide-angle lens compared to 12 MP on the Pixel 8. The front camera now integrates autofocus,
< p>It's worth noting that the Pixel 9's lenses are larger, promising better low-light performance.
- Verdict: Google Pixel 9 Pro for its better cameras
Battery life and charging: new developments on the horizon
Google promises 20% more battery life, thanks in part to the Tensor's increased energy efficiency G4.
- Verdict: Google Pixel 9 for its faster charging
A rising price
The Pixel 9 is marketed around 100 euros more than its predecessor at the time of release< /strong>. An increase that will infuriate most consumers wishing to get hold of Google's new smartphone. It should also be noted that the Pixel 8 is currently sold at a price of 549 euros, and that the Pixel 9 will be available at a price of 899 euros. Suffice to say that it is particularly difficult to justify such a difference.
- Verdict: Google Pixel 8 for its price 350 euros lower than that of the Pixel 9
Pixel 9 vs Pixel 8: the verdict
In conclusion, the Pixel 9 promises to be an interesting evolution of the Pixel 8, without revolutionizing the formula. The main changes concern the design, performance and photography. It remains to be seen whether these improvements will be enough to convince Pixel 8 owners to upgrade to the new generation. For others, the choice is going to be difficult between a Pixel 8 that remains very competitive and a Pixel 9 that promises to be even more accomplished, but which is much more expensive.
📍 To not miss any Presse-citron news, follow us on Google News and WhatsApp.
160.2 M reviews