Google Pixel 9 Series: A Serious Challenge to the iPhone 16

With the release of the Google Pixel 9 series, Apple’s iPhone 16 faces its toughest competition yet. From improved displays and powerful cameras to cutting-edge AI capabilities and a more robust foldable offering, Google has delivered a series that’s poised to steal market share.

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Google Pixel 9 Series: A Serious Challenge to the iPhone 16

Pixel 9: smoother, smarter, sharper

Pre-orders for the new iPhone 16 series began last Friday, and the phones officially went on sale this Friday. The big question is whether you should buy one. If not, what are your alternatives? Last week, we explored refurbished iPhones, and this week, we’ll look at options in the Android market.

First up is Google. The Pixel 9 features a 6.3” OLED display, which, while not LTPO, operates at a smooth 120Hz—making the iPhone 16’s 60Hz screen seem outdated by comparison. Although the Tensor G4 doesn’t match the performance of the Apple A18, it effectively supports Google’s AI capabilities, which are already operational, whereas Apple is still catching up.

Additionally, the Pixel 9 boasts a 50MP main camera and a 48MP ultra-wide lens, a notable upgrade that the iPhone 16 lacks, as it only received a minor enhancement to its 12MP ultra-wide camera.

Google Pixel 9 Series: A Serious Challenge to the iPhone 16 The Pixel 9 features Satellite SOS, as do other models in the 9 series, but it lacks the ability for general satellite messaging. In contrast, with iOS 18, iPhones 14 and newer can use the Messages app to communicate with friends and family even when outside network coverage, although this functionality is currently limited to the US and Canada, with plans for expansion next year.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro steps up to a 6.3” LTPO display with higher pixel density, making it more comparable to the iPhone 16 Pro’s 6.3” LTPO screen.

It retains the 50MP main and 48MP ultra-wide cameras from the standard model, matching the iPhone 16 Pro’s 48MP ultra-wide, while also adding a 48MP periscope lens with 5x zoom (113mm), giving it an advantage over Apple’s 12MP periscope (120mm). Additionally, the Pixel Pro introduces a new 48MP ultra-wide selfie camera (17mm), a feature that iPhones may adopt next year. Keep in mind the earlier points about the Tensor G4 and the Satellite SOS capabilities.

Google Pixel 9 Series: A Serious Challenge to the iPhone 16  The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL competes with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, featuring a 6.8” display. When considering the slightly different aspect ratios, the Pixel’s display has about 5% less surface area. Aside from this, the specifications are identical to the smaller Pro model, and the same holds true for the iPhone.

Additionally, both Google and Apple have increased the speeds for wired and wireless charging this year. We’ve already tested the Pixel models and anticipate results from the iPhones shortly.

Google Pixel 9 Series: A Serious Challenge to the iPhone 16  While Apple hasn’t released a foldable device yet, continuing rumors suggest delays. In contrast, Google has launched its second-generation foldable, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which includes significant usability improvements. It features a 6.3” (20:9) cover display and an 8.0” inner display, both running at 120Hz, with the inner display utilizing LTPO technology.

The camera setup includes a 48MP main sensor along with 10MP ultra-wide and telephoto lenses, which may not be as advanced as those on the other Pixel 9 Pro models—a common limitation in foldable devices. Nevertheless, Google is ahead of Apple in embracing new mobile form factors, much like it is with AI technology.

Google Pixel 9 Series: A Serious Challenge to the iPhone 16  The Google Pixel 8a serves as a budget-friendly option compared to the 9-series. However, with a Pixel 9a anticipated by the end of the year, you may want to hold off on purchasing. The primary upgrade in the 9a will be the more efficient Tensor G4 chipset, as the G3 in the Pixel 8a isn’t particularly impressive. On the upside, the Pixel 8a will receive support for seven years, so you can buy it now and not have to think about upgrading until 2031.