The author also highlights some of the AI features, such as the "reimagine" tool in Magic Editor, which can add elements to photos based on text prompts, and the Pixel Screenshots app, which uses AI to extract information from screenshots. However, these features are described as problematic and unreliable. The author concludes that while the new era of AI phones is messy, the hardware of the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL is solid.
Key takeaways:
- Google's Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL have been praised for their hardware improvements, including a brighter screen, flat edges, and a solid feel. The software, however, has been described as inconsistent and somewhat chaotic, with AI features scattered across different apps and interfaces.
- The Pixel 9 series introduces a new Tensor G4 chip and a vapor chamber, which prevents the phone from overheating. The phones also feature a faster fingerprint scanner and a refreshed design.
- Despite the size difference, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL share the same camera hardware, including a 5x telephoto lens. The ultrawide lens has been updated to boost low-light performance.
- Google's AI features, while promising, have been criticized for their inconsistency and lack of integration. The company's new generative AI tool, "reimagine," has been described as problematic due to its ability to create highly realistic, but potentially misleading or harmful, images.