The Pixel 8 remains a capable device, but there are a few key Pixel 9 updates that may sway your buying decision.
The Pixel 9’s F1.7 ultrawide lens now has a 48MP sensor with a 123° field of view. This is a big upgrade over the Pixel 8’s 12MP, F2.2 ultrawide lens with a 125.8° field of view. In real-world use, expect two advantages.
The 48MP sensor captures more detail, so your photos will look sharper. Cropped photos should preserve more detail and be less pixelated than on the Pixel 8’s sensor. Its F1.7 aperture offers better low-light performance than the Pixel 8’s F2.2 ultrawide sensor, which helps with indoor (think party and food shots) and night photography.
Another major Pixel 9 update: A Tensor G4 processor with 12 GB of RAM, versus the Pixel 8’s Tensor G3 with 8GB of RAM. This is touted to offer increased processing power and battery efficiency. You’ll notice the difference most prominently in processing-intensive apps.
Google’s also going all-in on AI and the new hardware will make the most of the Pixel 9’s new AI tools, including the Add Me photo feature, which allows you to insert yourself into family photos. Gemini, Google’s new AI Assistant, will also be more closely integrated into your searches.
The Pixel 9 has a slightly bigger (6.3 inches vs 6.2 inches) and brighter display (up to 2,700 nits vs up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness). You may not notice the extra screen real estate in daily use, but you’ll probably appreciate the increased brightness if you often use your phone in bright sunlight.
The Pixel 9 also has a new, arguably sleeker design language. Its frame has flat edges instead of the rounded curves of its predecessor. The camera bar, which runs across the width of the phone on the Pixel 6, 7 and 8, is now a raised block with rounded corners that stops shy of the phone’s edge.
PIXEL 8 or PIXEL 9?
The Pixel 8 remains a capable device that’s now available at a discount. Should you stick with ol’ Faithful or opt for the new phone on the block? To help you decide, we’ve shortlisted some factors.
Get the Pixel 8 if:
- You want a still-capable flagship phone at a great price
- You don’t need or want to have the latest AI bells and whistles, because well, robot uprising
- You want to save on accessories, which are likely to be discounted since it’s about to become a previous-gen device
Get the Pixel 9 if:
- You want to experience using Google’s latest suite of AI tools and aren’t concerned about a robot uprising
- You’re a keen phone photographer and are thirsting for its new 48MP ultrawide sensor and brighter, F1.7 lens
- You’re a power user who wants the extra processing chops of its new Tensor G4 processor