Tag: Flat design

  • Google Pixel 9

    Google launched the Pixel 9 in India in August 2024 at Rs 79,999 for 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. It introduced a new design with flat aluminium sides and a floating, pill-shaped camera island, and was among the first phones built around Gemini, with features like Gemini Live, Pixel Screenshots and Add Me.

    The 6.3-inch Actua OLED is larger than the Pixel 8's and brighter still, while the extra RAM supports on-device Gemini Nano models. Tensor G4 is a modest step over G3, so performance remains behind the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Galaxy S24 and the A18 in the iPhone 16, but daily use is smooth and thermals improved.

    The camera system pairs a 50 MP main sensor with a new 48 MP ultrawide that captures better detail and macro shots. The 4700 mAh battery and 27W charging deliver a full day comfortably. Against the Galaxy S24 and iPhone 16, the Pixel 9 offers the strongest AI feature set and seven years of updates, though it costs more than discounted rivals.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 79,999 (base variant)
    India launchAugust 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.3-inch, OLED (Actua), 120Hz, 1080 x 2424
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G4
    RAM12 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide
    Front camera10.5 MP
    Battery4700 mAh
    Charging27W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight198 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, Peony

    What we like

    • Gemini AI features built in
    • Improved 48 MP ultrawide
    • Bright 6.3-inch Actua display
    • Seven years of updates

    What could be better

    • Tensor G4 is only a small upgrade
    • No telephoto lens
    • Charging speeds still modest

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want Google's AI features and reliable cameras in a mid-sized flagship with long software support.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Oppo Reno 13

    The Oppo Reno 13 launched in India in January 2025 with a noticeably more compact design than previous Reno phones, along with a flat aluminium frame and a much faster chip. It aimed at buyers who wanted a smaller, premium-feeling phone, competing with the Vivo V50, Samsung Galaxy A56 and Nothing Phone (3a).

    The 6.59-inch AMOLED display at 120Hz is sharp and easy to use with one hand. The Dimensity 8350 marks a big performance jump over the Reno 12's Dimensity 7300, handling games and multitasking with ease. IP66, IP68 and IP69 ratings give it strong protection against dust and water. ColorOS 15 on Android 15 brings smooth animations and a set of AI editing and writing features.

    The 50 MP main camera with OIS and an 8 MP ultrawide handle most situations well, though there is no telephoto lens on the standard model. The 50 MP selfie camera is excellent. The 5,600 mAh battery offers strong endurance for a compact phone, with 80W wired charging. Against the Vivo V50, it was smaller and faster, while Vivo had a better ultrawide and a bigger battery.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 37,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2025
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.59-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1256 x 2760
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 8350
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main with OIS + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera50 MP
    Battery5600 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 15, ColorOS 15
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP66, IP68, IP69
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursIvory White, Luminous Blue

    What we like

    • Compact, premium design
    • Dimensity 8350 performance
    • IP66, IP68 and IP69 ratings
    • 5,600 mAh battery for its size

    What could be better

    • No telephoto camera
    • Basic 8 MP ultrawide
    • Priced higher than previous Reno base models

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a compact, durable phone with strong performance and selfies.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (January 2025). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.