Google has always had a massive, undeniable role in the smartphone industry. They were the tech giant behind the Android operating system, which was first released in 2008. Now, Android is the most widely used operating system worldwide. While Google has always had a hand in the software side of Android, it was a few years before they decided to join the likes of Samsung and Sony in creating hardware. 

The Pixel series of devices—’the only phone engineered by Google’—first launched in 2016, 8 years after the initial release of the Android OS. Now, the Pixel is one of the most well-known smartphone brands, with the new Pixel 9 resulting in the highest-ever quarterly sales for the devices.

This article will cover the topic of the Google Pixel 9 vs 8. It’ll also be delving into the different features of both models, how the Pixel 9 compares to its predecessor, and whether it’s worth upgrading to the new model.

The Features of the Pixel 9 Phone

Before delving into the Google Pixel 9 vs 8, let’s explore all the features of the Pixel 9. The phone was first announced on August 13, 2024, at the Made by Google event and was then released just over a week later on August 22.

The Pixel 9 features two Gorilla Glass Victus 2 panels and a flat aluminium frame. The phone is available in a range of colours: Peony (pink), Wintergreen (light green), Porcelain (off-white) and Obsidian (black).

The phone is powered by the fourth generation of Google’s Tensor system-on-chip (SOC), marketed as the ‘Google Tensor G4’. In gaming benchmarks, the Tensor G4 scores a 63 compared to the Galaxy S24’s 96 with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. While the Tensor G4 may not be the strongest chipset available for Android, it can still handle most intensive 3D games like Genshin Impact and Zenless Zone Zero at respectable graphic settings and high-frame rates. What the Pixel 9 lacks in chipset performance (compared to the high-power Snapdragon 8 Gen 3) it makes up for in the user interface, artificial intelligence (Google’s Gemini AI) and camera.

Google’s Pixel phones are one of the few Android devices that run the ‘stock’ operating system. This means it is true to the original software and hasn’t been changed. This also means there is no bloatware, and it is Android as Google originally envisioned it.

The Pixel 9 is the first of Google’s phones to properly support Gemini AI, too. Gemini is a built-in AI assistant for the phone which can help with:

• AI photo editing tools

• Pixel Studio, a first-of-its-kind image generator powered by an on-device model

• The Pixel 9’s weather app is also powered by AI for more accurate forecasts, like when rain is going to start/stop

• The ability to recall information from screenshots

• A new feature called ‘Call Notes’ which can save a private summary of a conversation after a phone call

The Gemini assistant is also multimodal, meaning you can communicate with it through text, images, or voice. It’s possible to have a conversation with Gemini about almost anything, from where the best food place is nearby to questions about finding the best sources for an assignment. 

The Pixel 9 has an advanced dual camera system. It has a 50 MP wide lens and a 48 MP ultrawide lens with a Macro Focus feature. It also supports Super Res Zoom up to 8x. However, what makes the Pixel cameras really shine is the software. 

While the Pixel cameras don’t always feature the highest megapixels, they are considered excellent and one of, if not the best in the industry due to their advanced AI capabilities. The Pixel 9 allows for a high level of image enhancements through post-processing features and AI.

How The Pixel 9 Compares to the Pixel 8

The Pixel 8 vs Pixel 9—if you’re wondering how the new model compares to its predecessor, the quick answer would be: It’s better in every area. The Pixel 9 is better built, has a larger (and brighter screen), and excels over the 8 in every facet.

The screen of the Pixel 9 measures 6.3 inches, whereas the Pixel 8 is only 6.2 inches. The maximum brightness for the Pixel 9 is also higher at 1,800 nits (HDR) and up to 2,700 nits (peak brightness) compared to the 8’s 1,400 nits and 2,000 nits.

The Pixel 9 also has a larger battery size at 4,700 mAh compared to the Pixel 8’s 4,575 mAh. Beyond just the battery size, the Tensor G4 is more optimised than the G3 chip, which also positively influences battery life. In a test run, the Pixel 9 lasted around 13 hours and 18 minutes, while the Pixel 8 only lasted 9 hours and 48 minutes.

When it comes to the performance of the Pixel 8 vs Pixel 9, the Pixel 9 got an upgrade in more than just the processor department. The Pixel 9 features 12 GB of RAM versus the Pixel 8’s 8 GB of RAM. This allows for faster app loading, smoother multitasking and improved performance for demanding tasks (like video editing).

The Pixel 9 camera system features major improvements over the 8, too. While the Pixel 8 and 9 both share a 50 MP wide camera, the Pixel 9 has a 48 MP ultrawide camera, while the Pixel 8 only has a 12 MP ultrawide camera. Not only does the Pixel 9 capture higher-quality photos and videos than the Pixel 8, but it also has access to better software. The Pixel 9 has full access to Gemini, including the AI-powered photo/video editing tools, while the Pixel 8 can only access Gemini Nano.

Is It Worth Upgrading to the Pixel 9?

If you’re on the fence about the Pixel 8 vs Pixel 9 and considering whether you should upgrade—the answer will depend on what features are important to you. Other key considerations should also be your budget and what your phone usage is like.

If you’re a heavy gamer or need to use intensive apps, the Pixel 9 Tensor G4 is a huge improvement over the G3. The phone scores higher on benchmark tests and is better optimised. The Pixel 9 also has a better heat dissipation design.

So, you’ll need to think about what you use your phone for. If your device is primarily for checking messages, sending emails, and browsing the internet, then the Pixel 9 will be an incremental upgrade.

If high-quality photos and/or better gaming performance are essential to you, the Pixel 9 is an improvement over the Pixel 8 and worth the upgrade. When it comes to the Pixel 8 vs Pixel 9 debate, the Pixel 9 wins in the photo department every time.

The Pixel 9 also has full-fledged access to Google’s Gemini AI features, while the Pixel 8 can only run Gemini Nano. Gemini Nano is a restricted version of the AI tool with limited functionality.

So, if access to cutting-edge technology is essential to you, it’s worth upgrading to the 9. If you’re considering upgrading, it might be worth looking into refurbished Pixel 9 units. It’s a great way to shave some money off the price tag, and shopping second-hand is eco-friendly, too.

Buy The Latest Pixel Phones at OzMobiles

If you’re looking to buy second-hand Google Pixel devices, you can find the best deals for refurbished phones at OzMobiles. Our extensive range features the latest smartphones, including the Pixel 9 series.

If you want to buy refurbished phones, you can shop with confidence at OzMobiles. All the devices we sell come with a free 12-month warranty and a 30-day risk-free return period. So, if you have any concerns or a change of heart, you can reach out to us for support.

Every device we sell undergoes an extensive refurbishment process, including a 72-point quality check. During this process, a qualified technician inspects the phone to ensure it is running optimally and every component is fully functional.

Feel free to reach out and contact us if you have any questions or need help finding the right Google Pixel for you. The OzMobiles team would love to hear from you and connect you with the right device.