For the first time Google offered its Pro-tier Pixel in a compact size. The Pixel 9 Pro was announced for India in August 2024 at Rs 1,09,999 for 16 GB plus 256 GB, sharing the 6.3-inch footprint of the regular Pixel 9 while adding the telephoto camera, a sharper LTPO screen and more memory. It competed directly with the iPhone 16 Pro.
The Super Actua LTPO display runs at 1280 x 2856 and up to 120Hz, with very high peak brightness. Tensor G4 with 16 GB of RAM handles Gemini Nano and Google's AI suite smoothly, though gaming performance and efficiency still trail Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Apple's A18 Pro. The polished frame and matte glass back give it a premium feel.
Its triple camera, with a 50 MP main, 48 MP ultrawide and 48 MP 5x telephoto, is among the most consistent of its year, and the 42 MP selfie camera with autofocus is a big step up for video calls and group shots. The 4700 mAh battery lasts a day with 27W charging. For buyers wanting a small phone with a top-tier zoom camera, few alternatives existed on Android.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 109,999 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | August 2024 |
| Segment | Flagship |
| Display | 6.3-inch, LTPO OLED (Super Actua), 120Hz, 1280 x 2856 |
| Processor | Google Tensor G4 |
| RAM | 16 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB |
| Expandable storage | No |
| Rear cameras | 50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide + 48 MP 5x telephoto |
| Front camera | 42 MP |
| Battery | 4700 mAh |
| Charging | 27W wired, wireless |
| Software at launch | Android 14 |
| 5G | Yes |
| Water/dust rating | IP68 |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Weight | 199 g |
| Colours | Obsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, Rose Quartz |
What we like
- Full Pro camera system in a compact size
- 42 MP autofocus selfie camera
- 16 GB RAM for on-device AI
- Seven years of updates
What could be better
- Very expensive
- Tensor G4 trails rivals in gaming
- 27W charging is slow
Who should buy it
Buyers who want a compact Android flagship with a 5x zoom camera and Google's AI features.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.