Yes, Google Pixel finally landed in Malaysia after 8 years of waiting. Pre-orders have opened and surely many Android smartphone enthusiasts have questions as to whether this is the device for them.
We tried to answer your questions by listing 10 things we find interesting and disappointing about the Google Pixel 9 series this year. At the end of the article it is hoped that you can make a choice whether it is worth it or not to buy it.
Attractive - Premium and Comfortable Design
It's been a while since we've used a Pixel device. Last time was the Pixel 3a XL and before that the original Pixel XL. We feel that in terms of design the previous Pixel has not had a design that we can say is truly premium. There have been several viral incidents where the glass on the Pixel camera randomly breaks.
On the Pixel 9 series, we can say that the device feels premium, heavy in the hand and comfortable to hold. The boxy side used makes it have an iPhone-like design that we feel has the best body design on the device and is in line with other manufacturers. For those looking for a premium device that feels luxurious in the hand, all three Pixel 9 models meet this criteria.
Interesting – Most Original Android Software
With Android 14 straight from Google, the experience of using the device felt very smooth, fast and without any issues during the time we tested it yesterday. No issues with unnecessary installed apps taking up storage space. This is important because Google offers a device with 128GB of basic storage which we can say is small for 2024.
There is also no issue of ads plastered on the device. All other Android manufacturers are guilty of displaying ads to promote their services through the launchers they use. The most original and “unadulterated” Android experience offered by the Pixel 9 series.
Interesting – 7 Years Software Support
Previously only Samsung offered Android updates and security patches for 7 years. Now Google is entering the arena in Malaysia to provide competition. Although the software support period is the same, the Pixel has the advantage of receiving faster Android version updates and Pixel Drops than the Samsung. On the first day the new software was announced it was available for Pixel owners to download. This makes the Pixel on par with what iPhone users have enjoyed since time immemorial. This is an advantage that other Android device manufacturers have not been able to offer.
Interesting – Unique AI Features
Samsung has a Galaxy AI that uses Google Gemini technology. The Pixel also features AI but with an exclusive offering. Gemini Studio generates images using a prom that the user enters on the device without the need for internet. Images can be generated in less than 5 seconds. Samsung's Sketch to Image and Portrait Studio are faster which take around 30 seconds to do the same task.
Then there is Reimagine which changes the elements in the picture also using prom in a matter of seconds. The entire sky, background image and even the floor can be changed with whatever the user wants with the help of AI. Lastly is another exclusive feature which is Add Me which can add someone to the photo you want to take. There is no longer a problem of people who need to take pictures not being in group pictures after this.
Interesting – The Base RAM is Getting Bigger
Last year, Pixel users complained that the basic model was only equipped with 8GB of RAM and the Pro model was only equipped with 12GB of RAM. Memory offerings are small compared to small compared to device manufacturers from China. This lack of RAM is an issue because the Pixel does not have a virtual RAM feature that can be added when needed. On the Pixel 9, 12GB of RAM is now given, while on the Pro model it increases to 16GB of RAM. Pixel 9 users won't complain that multiple apps can be launched simultaneously without having to go through the frequent refresh process.
Interesting – Best Camera for Android
Other manufacturers put emphasis on a giant 200MP sensor and an extreme zoom system far up to the moon. Pixel never tries to fight in the arena of who is the biggest and farthest. Instead, the Pixel's strength from the start has been its computational photography capabilities that place a direct emphasis on algorithms to ensure every picture taken is of high quality. In various "blind tests" conducted online, the majority of users chose photos taken by Pixel devices. So we have faith that this will happen again through the Pixel 9 series. Google's photography algorithm has yet to be overtaken by other Android manufacturers.
Disappointing – Slow Charging
Not everything is positive and it's time to touch on the shortcomings of the Pixel 9 series. Started with slow charging. Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro can only be charged with 27W power even though the battery is 4700 mAh. Pixel 9 Pro XL charges with 37W power with a 5060 mAh battery.
We slaughtered Apple and Samsung who are notorious for slow charging compared to mid-range Android devices from China. So it's only fair to slaughter Google as well. In our opinion , in 2024 flagship devices should come with at least 45W charging.
Disappointing – Tensor G4 Not the Most Powerful Chip
On paper the Tensor G4 is a chip that has the same configuration as the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 used in the Realme GT 6T mid-range device. It is not comparable to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 which has a better core configuration and GPU. But Google is marketing the Pixel 9 series as a flagship device that's also at a price comparable to rival flagship devices.
Will Pixel users be satisfied with mid-range gaming performance on a flagship device? Google says Tensor 4 prioritizes the AI capabilities that underpin some of the unique features we've touched on above. The question is why doesn't Google just produce a more powerful Tensor chip?
Disappointing – Not All Features are Supported in Malaysia
Do you still remember the Pixel 4 controversy with the Motion Sense feature that can only be used in six countries? It can be used in Singapore but once crossing the causeway, it is immediately deactivated. On the Pixel 9 the Satellite SOS feature that sends emergency SMS using satellites is limited in the mainland United States. Then car accident detection features and emergency location services are also not offered in Malaysia. Those looking to buy should be aware that not all features advertised by Google are available.
Disappointing – Price Increases Too Suddenly
Last but not least is the high selling price of the device. Pixel 9 starts from RM3999, Pixel 9 Pro starts from RM5199 and Pixel 9 Pro XL starts from RM5699. We admit this is the standard price of a modern flagship device but as touched upon above, the Pixel 9 series does not come with a true flagship class processor chip. Devices with the same power are sold at a price below RM3000.
So make the best choice after reading this article. Are the advantages of the Pixel 9 series making you excited to own one this month?