Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Key Features

• RAM: 16 GB
• Internal Storage:  128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
• Battery: 5,060 mAh
• Main camera: 50MP + 48MP+ 48MP
• Front camera: 42 MP
• Display: 6.8-inch, OLED
• Processor: Google Tensor G4 (5 nm)
• Connectivity: 3G, 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi
• Colors: Porcelain, Rose Quartz, Hazel, Obsidian
• OS: Android 14
• NB: No local warranty

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL in Kenya

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL price in Kenya is from Kes 110,000. The new model from Google, released on 13^th August, features a 6.8-inch OLED display with 1344 x 2992p resolution and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection. The IP68 dust/water resistant smartphone supports Nano-SIM and eSIM. It runs on Android 14, with up to 7 major Android upgrades, and is powered by an Octa-core, Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) processor. 128GB 16GB RAM, 256GB 16GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM, and 1TB 16GB RAM internal memory (no memory card support anchors the operating system and chip.

Pixel 9 Pro XL is installed with a 50MP + 48MP +48MP triple main camera set and a single, 42MP front-facing camera. Running on a 5G network, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7, tri-band, Bluetooth v5.3, and USB Type-C 3.2, the handset from Google is all set for new technological breakthroughs and great user experience. Powering it is a Li-Ion 5060mAh, non-removable battery, recharged by a 37W wired unit (PD3.0, PPS, 70% in 30 min). Wireless charging options include 23W wireless (w/ Pixel Stand), and 12W wireless (w/Qi-compatible charger). It equally supports reverse wireless charging. Buy the Google Pixel 9  Pro XL at iFlip Store Kenya, now available in Porcelain, Rose Quartz, Hazel, and Obsidian colorways.

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL USPs

• Design and Build: Its sleek and stunning design makes it a pleasure to use. It feels as good as it looks, thanks to thoughtful design choices.
• Durability: The pixel smartphone is built with an aluminum frame, Gorilla glass protection at the front and back, and is IP68 Waterproof certified. This ensures longevity and durability when used, considering Google offers up to 7 software upgrades from the current OS.
• Display: It features a 6.8-inch OLED display with a 20:9 aspect ratio, 1344 x 2992 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~486 ppi density) resolution, and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. It supports a smooth display with a refresh rate of 60-120Hz and can reach up to 3,000 nits peak brightness for HDR content.
• Camera Excellence: The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s triple camera system (50MP + 48MP + 48MP) captures professional-quality photos and videos. Google’s expertise in computational photography ensures impressive results.
• Performance: Powered by the Google Tensor G4 processor and 16 GB RAM, the Pixel 9 Pro XL delivers smooth performance and responsiveness. Besides, up to 1TB of internal memory is significant for high, uncompromised performance.
• Optimized Security: The Pixel 9 Pro XL features end-to-end security designed by Google, including the Titan M2 security co-processor and anti-malware protection.
• Camera System: The advanced triple rear camera system includes a 50MP wide lens and a 48MP ultra-wide lens with Super Res Zoom up to 8x. Optical and electronic stabilization enhances photo quality.
• AI-Powered Features: The Pixel 9 Pro XL leverages advanced AI capabilities, including the Gemini AI system, which enhances user experience and productivity.
• Battery Life: With a typical 5,060mAh battery, Pixel 9 Pro XL offers over 24 hours of usage. Extreme Battery Saver mode extends this to up to 100 hours. It supports fast wired charging (up to 37W) and wireless charging (Qi-certified).

Google Pixel 9 Features, Specifications, and Price in Kenya

Detailed Product Description

Design and Build

The Pixel 9 Pro XL design is exquisite. The satin-finish metal chassis blends seamlessly with the flat Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 rear panel. It feels great in hand and has an IP68 dust and water resistance rating. The aluminum frame is the icing on the cake for a premium feel and assurance of durability to the flagship model. It is a massive, heavy phone, 162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm and weighing 221g. Necessary measures in its build-up to retain its pristine form and reduce vulnerability to damage make perfect sense.

Pixel 9 Pro XL, coming with a distinctive polished frame, has four color options:

• Porcelain
• Rose Quartz
• Hazel
• Obsidian

Display

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL features a 6.8-inch Actua display with an aspect ratio of 20:9. Enjoy immersive viewing and consuming content on the 1344 x 2992 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~486 ppi density) LTPOC OLED display. The display uses OLED technology for vibrant colors and deep blacks. It supports a variable refresh rate from 60Hz to 120Hz for smoother animations and interactions. Notably, this display can reach up to 2000 nits (HDR) and up to 3000 nits (peak brightness). Besides, you will greatly benefit from an over 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, which further improves visibility when reading text or viewing photos and videos. A higher contrast ratio ensures that text, icons, and graphics appear sharper and more defined.

Google has provided Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 to protect the precious OLED screen from scratches and breakages that otherwise reduce user experience.  Everyone hates owning a high-end phone with a cracked or compromised screen. Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro XL display ensures a high-quality visual experience, whether you are browsing, watching videos, or using apps. Additionally, the Pixel 9 series supports display output over USB-C, allowing you to connect it to an external display without specialized equipment.

Camera Set up

The handset boasts an impressive camera setup.

Wide (Main) Camera

• 50 MP sensor with a large aperture of f/1.68
• Dual-pixel phase detection autofocus (PDAF) and laser autofocus
• Optical image stabilization (OIS)
• Capable of recording 4K video at 60fps and 8K video at 30fps

This primary camera on the Google handset provides:

• Excellent exposure and highlight protection
• Neutral white balance and pleasing colors
• Reliable autofocus with field-of-view correction in video mode
• Good texture-to-noise balance in various conditions.

Ultrawide Camera

• 48 MP sensor with an aperture of f/1.7
• Multi-directional PDAF
• Records 4K video at 60fps.

The ultrawide camera is a necessary and important addition to the camera set for a better photography experience. Specifically, it offers:

• A wide, 123° field of view
• Solid performance in bright light;
• Slightly inaccurate color rendering in very low light.

Telephoto 5x Camera

• 48 MP sensor with an aperture of f/2.8
• Provides 5x optical zoom
• Multi-directional PDAF and OIS
• Supports 4K video at 60fps and 8K video at 30fps.

Notably, the Telephoto lens misses on the Pixel 9 Model. However, its significance is better experienced on the Pixel 9 Pro XL Model. This is in regards to:

• Improved resolution compared to previous models
• Accurate skin tones and wide dynamic range
• Zoom Power: It provides 5x optical zoom, allowing you to get closer to distant subjects.
• Aperture: The f/2.8 lens ensures good performance even in challenging lighting conditions.
• Multi-Directional PDAF: Fast and accurate autofocus for sharp shots.
• Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Reduces blur in handheld shots.

Front Camera

• 42 MP sensor with an aperture of f/2.2
• Dual-pixel PDAF
• Records 4K video at 60fps.

The selfie camera categorically:

• Improved resolution compared to previous models
• Accurate skin tones and wide dynamic range on subjects.
• Boasts a large sensor, allowing for higher levels of detail in your selfies.
• The f/2.2 lens ensures good performance even in challenging lighting conditions.
• The inclusion of autofocus ensures sharp focus on your face.
• : It can record 4K video at 30/60fps, delivering smooth and high-quality selfie videos.

Overall, Pixel 9 Pro XL’s camera system delivers exceptional versatility and image quality, making it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts and video content creators.

Platform and Phone Performance

Operating System

Pixel 9 Pro XL runs on Android 14, and like every Pixel device, it will receive seven years of OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates.

Chipset

Google Pixel 9 is equipped with the Google Tensor G4 chipset, which ensures powerful performance and supports advanced AI features. It features an Octa-core Octa-core (1×3.1 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3×2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 4×1.92 GHz Cortex-A520) for multitasking among multiple open apps, and Mali-G715 MC7 designed to optimize user’s gaming experience.

Storage Specifications

Alongside this, you get UP TO 16GB of RAM for smooth multitasking (depending on the particular model). As for the models, you can choose 128GB 16GB RAM, 256GB 16GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM, and 1TB 16GB RAM options. Notably, this model does not support additional memory via MicroSD. However, the variable model options offer sufficient storage options to suit your needs, besides UFS 3.1 technology which helps optimize the internal storage once you start using your device.

Google AI

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL integrates several powerful AI features, enhancing your overall experience, once you power it on and immerse yourself.

• Google Tensor G4 Chip: This custom-designed chip powers the Pixel 9 Pro XL, enabling advanced AI processing for various tasks.
• Gemini Live: Get instant answers with Gemini Live, which leverages AI to provide helpful information right when you need it.
• Pixel Studio: Unleash your creativity with Pixel Studio, a canvas for editing and enhancing your photos and videos using AI-powered tools.
• Pixel Screenshots: Capture more without extra effort. Pixel Screenshots intelligently organize and remember your screenshots.
• Improved Camera AI: The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s AI enhances photography, including features like Add Me (for group selfies) and Magic Editor (for creative edits).
• Circle to Search: this nifty feature on the Pixel device enables you to effortlessly explore topics, shop, translate, and satisfy your curiosity – all without leaving your current activity.

Network and Communication Support

Cellular Connectivity

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL supports most major carrier networks, with SIM or eSIM. Check with your specific carrier for compatibility details. Cellular service and band support can vary based on your carrier.

Satellite Connectivity

The Pixel 9 Pro XL introduces satellite connectivity features, thanks to the Samsung Exynos 5400 modem embedded within Google’s proprietary Tensor G4 chipset.

This modem adheres to the 3GPP Release 17 non-terrestrial network (NTN) standards, enabling broader satellite connectivity options. With this capability, Pixel phones equipped with satellite support can use a Satellite Gateway app to notify contacts and send messages during emergencies.

Other Connectivity Features

Google Pixel 9 Pro XL includes standard connectivity options like

• GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G
• WLAN: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e/7, tri-band
• Bluetooth: 5.3, A2DP, LE, apt-X HD
• Positioning: GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, NavIC
• NFC: Yes
• Radio: No
• USB: USB Type-C 3.2

It is also worth noting that Google offers a VPN service at no extra cost for end-to-end security.

Battery and Power Management

Capacity

The handset comes equipped with a 5060 battery, which is more powerful than the  4,700mAh capacity battery on Pixel 9 and older models. The battery services the battery power needs for 24+ hours, and up to 100 hours with Extreme Battery Saver Mode.

Charging

• Wired Charging: The Pixel 9 Pro XL supports 37W fast wired charging, allowing for faster battery recharging. You can charge it up to 70% in about 30 minutes using Google’s 37W USB-C charger.
• Wireless Charging: Using the 2^nd Gen Google Pixel Stand, the Pixel 9 Pro XL wirelessly charges at up to 23W. You can also opt for 12W wireless Qi charging (w/ Qi-compatible charger).
• Reverse Charging: Google Pixel supports wireless charging, which can be handy for your devices that support wireless charging.

Battery Power Management

• Battery Saver: You can enable Battery Saver mode to optimize battery performance. It limits background processes and reduces power consumption when your battery is low.
• Extreme Battery Saver: For even more extended battery life, consider using Extreme Battery Saver mode. It disables various features, including 5G connectivity, to conserve power. In this mode, the Pixel 9 Pro XL can last up to 100 hours on a single charge.

Pros and Cons of Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

Pros

• Premium and Compact Design: The Pixel 9 Pro XL features a sleek and premium design, making it visually appealing. The aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 guarantee protection from scratches and breakage.
• Immersive display: the 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display is as large as it is immersive, boasting of ~486 ppi density and 120Hz, HDR10+, 2000 nits (HBM), 3000 nits (peak). It offers a better viewing experience compared to Pixel 9.
• Gemini Integration & AI Features: Google’s AI capabilities, including Gemini, enhance the user experience by offering smart features and optimizations.
• Strong Camera Performance: The Pixel 9 delivers excellent photo quality and impressive selfies. The camera setup records 4K and 8K videos and comes with all the features one can expect in a high-end flagship phone: OIS, laser AF, HDR, gyro EIS, panorama, and zoom capabilities.
• Clean Software: As an Android flagship, it runs a clean version of Android directly from Google, ensuring timely updates for up to 7 years.
• Battery: it certainly packs a punch with the 5,060mAh battery and wired, wireless charging options, besides wireless reverse charging.
• Durability: you are assured of phone use longevity with the 7 years of software upgrade support, Victus 2 glass protection, and IP68 Waterproof rating.

Cons

• Slow Charging Speeds: The charging speed is not as fast as some other flagship devices.
• Price-to-Performance Ratio: Some users may find the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s pricing less competitive compared to other options.
• Camera Hardware: Although AI-enhanced, hardware upgrades would be welcome.
• Battery Life: While good, it falls slightly behind some competitors.

Verdict

Pixel 9 Pro XL is a flagship model worth considering. It has many improvements compared to Pixel 9 and previous models. Better power, camera set up enhanced AI capabilities make it a great phone to consider. Despite a high price point and slow charging speed, it still has lots you can enjoy as you immerse yourself in its capabilities.

Alternative Handsets

• Google Pixel 9 Pro
• Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• OnePlus Open

Check out the latest Google Phones in Kenya