The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL has made waves in the Indian smartphone market, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology and premium features. This review explores its key attributes, helping potential buyers determine if it meets their needs.

Design and Display

The Pixel 9 Pro XL features a stunning 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display with 1344 x 2992 pixels resolution. Its 3,000 nits peak brightness ensures excellent visibility in bright sunlight. The device sports a premium build with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. While the flat design might not appeal to everyone, the IP68 rating provides peace of mind against dust and water damage. The color options include Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, and Rose Quartz.

Operating System

Running on Android 14 out of the box, the device has already received an upgrade to Android 15, with features like Theft Protection and enhanced camera capabilities. Google’s commitment to seven years of OS updates and security patches makes it a future-proof investment.

Processor

The Google Tensor G4 processor delivers impressive performance across tasks. This octa-core chip excels in AI operations and resource management, though some users report occasional lags during intensive gaming sessions.

Camera

The camera system truly shines as the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s crown jewel. The triple rear setup combines a 50MP primary sensor, 48MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, delivering exceptional versatility. The upgraded 42MP front camera takes the selfie game to new heights with improved detail and natural skin tones.

The standout feature is the enhanced Night Sight capability, which captures remarkably detailed and bright images in low-light conditions. The new Best Take feature revolutionizes group photos by allowing users to select the best facial expressions from multiple shots. While the camera generally excels in most situations, some users report overexposure issues in bright environments. The advanced editing suite provides professional-grade tools for post-processing, though purists might find the AI-enhanced processing somewhat aggressive. Despite minor quirks, the camera system sets new standards for mobile photography, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

RAM and Storage

With 16GB RAM, multitasking is smooth and efficient. Storage options of 256GB or 512GB provide ample space, though the lack of expandable storage might concern heavy users.

Sound

The stereo speakers deliver impressive audio quality for both calls and media consumption. While there’s no headphone jack, Bluetooth audio support ensures wireless listening convenience.

Battery

The 5,060mAh battery provides reliable all-day power. 45W fast charging support requires Google’s proprietary charger, while wireless charging adds convenience. Heavy users might need a midday charge during intensive use.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Outstanding camera system with superior low-light performance
• Vibrant 6.8-inch LTPO display with exceptional brightness
• Extended seven-year software support commitment
• Powerful Tensor G4 processor
• Premium build quality with IP68 rating

Cons

• No expandable storage options
• Considerable size and weight
• Relatively slower charging speeds than competitors

Market Buzz

Reviews on e-commerce platforms highlight mixed user experiences, with praise for camera capabilities but concerns about ergonomics and bright-light photography performance. The premium build quality receives positive feedback despite size concerns.

Pricing

• 256GB: ₹1,24,999
• 512GB: ₹1,39,999

Final Verdict

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL stands out with its exceptional camera system and long-term software support, making it a compelling choice despite its premium pricing and minor ergonomic challenges. It’s an excellent investment for photography enthusiasts seeking a flagship experience.