Google‘s latest Pixel lineup marks a significant departure from previous years, with a pronounced emphasis on Pro models. The series comprises four devices: the standard Pixel 9 and three Pro variants—the Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Each iteration features a refined design, the cutting-edge Tensor G4 chip, and a suite of advanced AI capabilities.

The visual aesthetic has been overhauled, adopting a flat-edge design reminiscent of contemporary flagship smartphones. The rear panel, however, retains the distinctive Pixel camera bar. The Pixel 9 offers a compact form factor with a 6.3-inch display, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL mirrors the dimensions of its predecessor, the Pixel 8 Pro, with a larger 6.8-inch screen. The Pixel 9 Pro occupies a mid-ground between the two.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, an evolution of the original Pixel Fold, boasts a slimmer profile, a taller form factor, and a larger 6.3-inch outer display. The internal screen has been expanded to 8 inches, offering a more immersive viewing experience.

All Pro models are equipped with a substantial 16GB of RAM, while the Pixel 9 features a generous 12GB. This ample memory allocation is essential for optimizing the device’s AI performance, which is driven by the new Gemini Nano chip. This advanced processor enables the Pixel 9 series to process images, speech, and text, unlocking a range of innovative AI applications.

A notable AI feature is a screenshot organizer that efficiently catalogs and retrieves captured images. Additionally, the Pixel Studio app harnesses generative AI to transform textual descriptions into visual representations.

However, the most impressive AI-driven enhancements are reserved for photography. The Pixel 9 series introduces groundbreaking camera capabilities, such as Magic Editor’s “reimagine” function, which allows users to dramatically modify image elements using text prompts. The “Add Me” feature simplifies group photography by seamlessly incorporating the photographer into the shot.

For the first time, Pixel devices in the US will support Satellite SOS, a critical emergency communication feature for areas without cellular coverage. This functionality, scheduled for later this year with the release of Android 15, complements the Pixel 9 series’ industry-leading seven years of OS updates and security patches.

Camera hardware has also undergone refinements. All models feature a 50-megapixel main camera, while the Pro variants boast a new 42-megapixel selfie camera with autofocus. Enhanced panorama mode, improved HDR Plus, and AI-powered Video Boost further elevate the camera experience.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s camera system, while improved compared to its predecessor, exhibits certain limitations due to the constraints of a thinner form factor. Nevertheless, the device’s larger and brighter inner display is a significant enhancement.

The Pixel 9 starts at $799, representing a $100 price increase over the previous generation. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL are priced at $999 and $1,099 respectively, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold commands a premium of $1,799.