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| Image: Gizmochina |
Google, known for its annual October launch events, is currently in the development phase of its Pixel 9 series following the success of the Pixel 8 series. Recent CAD renders of the Pixel 9 Pro have surfaced, and now, we've obtained exclusive case images that seemingly confirm the final design of the Pixel 9 Pro.
The case images, originating from a reliable industry source, assert that this is indeed the conclusive design for the Pixel 9 Pro. Notably, the rendered images reaffirm the presence of a horizontal pill-shaped camera module, aligning with a leak from the previous day. In these renders, three camera lenses are clearly visible, accompanied by a sensor and an LED flash strategically placed in the right corner of the camera island.
Beyond the camera updates, expectations for the Pixel 9 Pro include a shift to flat edges, potentially signaling a move towards a flat display. The recently launched Galaxy S24 smartphones have also embraced a similar flat design, reminiscent of recent iPhones. While this design shift enhances visual appeal compared to the curved design of the Pixel 8 Pro, there might be a compromise in hand-holding comfort in favor of aesthetics. Additional changes involve relocating the SIM tray from the left side to the top of the device, with the volume rocker and power buttons now situated on the right.
According to leaked information, the projected dimensions of the Pixel 9 Pro are 162.7 x 76.6 x 8.5mm. Anticipated specifications include a 6.5-inch flat display, slightly smaller than the 6.7-inch screen featured in the Pixel 8 Pro. Powering the device is expected to be the Tensor G4 chip, incorporating CPU cores derived from Samsung’s Exynos 2400 SoC and a GPU designed by Google. Meanwhile, rumors suggest that the Pixel 10 series will house the Tensor G5 chip, allegedly manufactured by TSMC based on Google’s in-house designs.
The leaked design of the Pixel 9 Pro, with its horizontal pill-shaped camera module, raises intrigue and excitement among tech enthusiasts. The three visible camera lenses, along with the strategically placed sensor and LED flash, indicate a continued focus on advanced imaging capabilities. This move aligns with Google's historical commitment to delivering top-notch camera performance in its Pixel series.
The shift towards flat edges and a potentially flat display is an interesting departure from the curved design of the Pixel 8 Pro. While this aligns the Pixel 9 Pro with contemporary design trends seen in competitors like the Galaxy S24 and recent iPhones, it prompts a consideration of whether users might find a compromise in hand-holding comfort. It's a delicate balance between aesthetics and practicality that Google seems willing to explore with this design shift.
The relocation of the SIM tray to the top of the device, along with the repositioning of volume rocker and power buttons, suggests a thoughtful reconsideration of the device's physical layout for improved user accessibility. These changes could potentially enhance the overall user experience, making it more intuitive and convenient for users to interact with their Pixel 9 Pro.
The projected dimensions, albeit slightly larger, maintain a sleek and compact profile. The reduction in display size from the Pixel 8 Pro to the Pixel 9 Pro might be a strategic decision to cater to users who prefer more manageable device dimensions without sacrificing screen quality. It's a move that reflects Google's awareness of the diverse preferences among smartphone users and a commitment to providing options that cater to a broader audience.
Now, let's delve into the heart of the Pixel 9 Pro – its processing power. According to the leaked information, the Pixel 9 Pro is expected to be powered by the Tensor G4 chip. This chip is intriguing as it combines CPU cores derived from Samsung’s Exynos 2400 SoC and a GPU designed by Google. This marks a departure from the conventional approach where both CPU and GPU are sourced from a single manufacturer.
The inclusion of the Tensor G4 chip showcases Google's commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile processing power. By integrating CPU cores from Samsung and a custom-designed GPU, Google aims to deliver a seamless and powerful performance. However, it also raises questions about the potential performance gap with the upcoming Tensor G5 chip rumored for the Pixel 10 series. Will the Tensor G4 be sufficient to meet the evolving demands of mobile applications and gaming, or will users need to wait for the Pixel 10 series for a significant leap in processing power?
Reactions and Assessments
The leaked design of the Pixel 9 Pro, with its horizontal pill-shaped camera module, raises intrigue and excitement among tech enthusiasts. The three visible camera lenses, along with the strategically placed sensor and LED flash, indicate a continued focus on advanced imaging capabilities.
The shift towards flat edges and a potentially flat display aligns the Pixel 9 Pro with contemporary design trends seen in competitors like the Galaxy S24 and recent iPhones. This move, while enhancing aesthetics, prompts a consideration of whether users might find a compromise in hand-holding comfort.
The relocation of the SIM tray to the top of the device, along with the repositioning of buttons and the SIM tray, suggests a thoughtful reconsideration of the device's physical layout for improved user accessibility.
The projected dimensions, albeit slightly larger, maintain a sleek and compact profile. The reduction in display size from the Pixel 8 Pro to the Pixel 9 Pro might be a strategic decision to cater to users who prefer more manageable device dimensions without sacrificing screen quality.
The revelation about the Tensor G4 chip, combining Samsung’s Exynos 2400 CPU cores and a Google-designed GPU, showcases Google's commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile processing power. However, it also raises questions about the performance gap between the Tensor G4 and the upcoming Tensor G5 chip rumored for the Pixel 10 series.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Innovative Pill-Shaped Camera Module: The design choice for the camera module sets the Pixel 9 Pro apart, promising advanced imaging capabilities.
- Modernized Flat Edges and Display: Aligning with contemporary design trends, the flat edges and display enhance the device's visual appeal.
- Thoughtful Physical Layout: The repositioning of buttons and the SIM tray indicates a user-centric approach to device ergonomics.
- Compact Dimensions: Despite a slight increase, the projected dimensions maintain a sleek and compact profile.
- Tensor G4 Chip: The inclusion of the Tensor G4 chip showcases Google's commitment to cutting-edge mobile processing technology.
Cons
- Potential Comfort Compromise: The shift to a flat design may sacrifice some hand-holding comfort for the sake of aesthetics.
- Smaller Display Size: The reduction in display size from the Pixel 8 Pro might disappoint users who prefer larger screens.
- Performance Gap Concerns: The revelation of the Tensor G4 chip raises questions about the potential performance gap with the upcoming Tensor G5 chip in the Pixel 10 series.
