Pixel 9 Pro XL Review: Google Goes All In on AI, for Better or Worse

TL;DR


• The Pixel 9 Pro XL is Google's latest flagship smartphone, featuring a significant focus on AI-powered features and capabilities. The device boasts impressive camera performance, with advanced computational photography techniques that enhance image quality and enable unique photography modes. However, the heavy reliance on AI also introduces some challenges, as the algorithms can sometimes struggle with complex scenes or produce unexpected results.

• The design of the Pixel 9 Pro XL is sleek and premium, with a large OLED display and a smooth, high-refresh-rate panel. The device also offers strong performance and battery life, making it a capable all-around smartphone. However, some users may find the size and weight of the device to be a bit unwieldy, especially for one-handed use.

• The Pixel 9 Pro XL's software experience is heavily influenced by Google's AI and machine learning capabilities. Features like the Magic Eraser, which can remove unwanted elements from photos, and the Real Tone feature, which aims to capture skin tones more accurately, demonstrate the potential of these technologies. However, the implementation can be hit-or-miss, and some users may prefer a more traditional, less AI-driven approach to smartphone features.

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