Every new Pixel feature TESTED. - Google Pixel 9 & 9 Pro XL
0 up · 0 down · 0 ratings
Promos
For your overpriced stickers and cases, go to shortlinus.com The new Google Pixels are here! With a fresh new design, a TON of new AI features, and a higher price tag, are the Pixel 9's new computerized cameras enough to convince James to upgrade from his Pixel 7? Buy a Google Pixel 9: geni.us (Canada: lmg.gg Buy a Google Pixel 9 Pro: geni.us Buy a Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: geni.us (Canada: lmg.gg Purchases made through some store links may provide some compensation to Linus Media Group. Want us to unbox something? Make a suggestion at lmg.gg ► GET MERCH: lttstore.com ► GET A VPN: piavpn.com ► GET EXCLUSIVE CONTENT ON FLOATPLANE: lmg.gg ► SPONSORS, AFFILIATES, AND PARTNERS: lmg.gg ► PRODUCTS WE USE ON THE SHORTCIRCUIT SET: lmg.gg FOLLOW US ELSEWHERE --------------------------------------------------- Twitter: twitter.com Instagram: @shortcircuityt TikTok: @linustech Facebook: @ShortCircuitYT CHAPTERS --------------------------------------------------- 0:00 Is James ready for an upgrade? 0:34 Unboxing 1:22 Design impressions, camera and display specs 3:50 Sponsor - brand 4:53 Trying out the Add Me and Magic Editor AI features 6:40 Pixel Screenshots app and Keep Magic List 7:45 Clear Calling and Call Notes 8:56 5x video performance, 20x Video Boost feature, and other misc photos 9:59 LABS gaming performance and battery charge speed results 11:06 Pricing and overall thoughts 12:55 Outro
The video opens with an unboxing and quick head-to-head between the Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the owner’s Pixel 7, setting the stage for a hands-on evaluation of whether the new Pixel line is worth upgrading. The host describes the design shift to a pill-shaped camera visor that spans the width of the device, noting its flat surface on a table and comparing materials between the Pro and non-Pro variants. He highlights the inclusion of a 45W charger in the box, contrasting it with faster charging norms on other flagships, and gives early impressions of the build quality, grip, and color options including winter green and porcelain. The discussion moves to first-impression hardware differences such as the glass-free back on the Pro, the added telephoto on the Pro, the array of sensors, and the under-the-hood improvements such as an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor that promises faster and more reliable authentication than the older optical sensor. The host transitions into AI features that Google positions as core to the Pixel 9 experience, like Add Me, Magic Editor, and Magic Eraser, while acknowledging skepticism about how much on-device processing is truly available offline versus cloud-dependent processing. He demonstrates some initial results, including how the on-device AI handles small edits, background changes, and photo reimagination, while also spotlighting the new Keep and Screenshots AI features and the on-device search within Pixel Screenshots. The segment closes with a teaser on camera performance, including video zoom tests, the 5x telephoto on the Pro, and early conclusions about the thick Vapor chamber cooling and real-world gaming and battery implications, setting up a deeper dive later in the video.
Topics · science_technology · hardware_reviews · smartphones · ai_features · camera · battery
Questions answered
- What are the key hardware differences between Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL discussed in the video?
- The Pixel 9 Pro XL adds a 5x telephoto lens and a premium build with a more robust grip, while the non-Pro retains a simpler camera setup. The Pro models also include a larger cooling area and brighter displays, and the Pro lineup uses a softer matte back compared to glass in the non-Pro. An ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is present on both, with the Pro benefiting from the larger sensor area and additional sensors like a temperature sensor.
- Are the AI features on the Pixel 9 series usable offline, or do they require a cloud connection?
- Some AI features operate offline on-device, such as certain editing tools like Magic Editor and background erasing, but many advanced AI capabilities rely on cloud processing or require a Gemini account for full functionality. The reviewer notes concerns about data privacy and the subscription model needed for full access.
- Is the Pixel 9 Pro XL a better value than the base Pixel 9 according to the review, considering price vs features?
- The reviewer presents a trade-off: the Pro XL offers more RAM, a 5x telephoto, a larger screen, and a brighter display, but it also costs more. The decision hinges on whether the user values the telephoto, the larger form factor, and the enhanced cooling for gaming, versus the higher price and potential subscription requirements for AI features.