However, there’s one really big gap in this expanded model range that’s a potential missed opportunity when we compare the Pixels to their counterparts from Samsung and Apple. But before we get to the missing link in Pixel’s DNA, let’s quickly refresh our memory.
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The Pixel 9 series model reshuffle
The second iteration of the Pixel Fold got nested under the Pixel 9 series lineup | Image by PhoneArena
The Pixel 9 Pro XL starts at $1,099, just $100 below the iPhone 16 Pro Max, but there are a lot of similarities.
From the design (almost exactly the same dimensions, weight and looks, barring the camera bump), to the setup of the cameras, memory configurations, etc.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is a little bit different, mainly due to the existence of the S Pen, but still it’s clear where Google is aiming with the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
This model is competing with the Galaxy Z Fold series, but unlike splitting the releases, Google thinks it’s better to offer the foldable alongside the other, non-folding models.
The Pixel 9 Pro has shrunk
The Pixel 9 Pro is now much smaller, competing with the iPhone 16 Pro and the Galaxy S25 | Image by PhoneArena
Many people welcomed the new compact-sized Pixel Pro model, and even though the vanilla Pixel has been left vulnerable to its own Pixel A-series kin, the small Pro has been selling well (counterpoint data).
What’s the missing link then? At first glance it seems that Google has covered all the bases and is ready to take Samsung and Apple’s market share.
The missing Pixel 9 model?
The iPhone 16 Plus is a big-screen flagship for not a lot of money | Image by PhoneArena
Do we need a Pixel 9 Plus?
Samsung has the big-screen affordable flagship covered with its Galaxy Plus models | Image by PhoneArena
That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? We’re arbitrarily calling this model the Pixel 9 Plus just to place it next to the rivals from Apple and Samsung. It has to be a 6.8-inch device just like the Pro XL model, but what sacrifices need to be made to lower the cost to around $899?
We could lose the periscope telephoto camera, but that’s about it. Apple has the hardware comfort to offer different chipsets on the Pro and non-Pro models, while Samsung has the S Pen to sacrifice along with the periscope telephoto (still offering a 3x normal telephoto on the Galaxy S25 Plus).
Google can’t play the chipset game, as the Tensor G4 is still lagging behind in raw performance, and swapping the telephoto from the Pro XL with a regular 3x zoom lens might be enough to bring the price down to the target $899.
Nevertheless, the fact of the matter is that if you want a big-screen Pixel, your only option now is the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which crosses the $1000 threshold. Do you think a Pixel 9 Plus makes sense and would you buy one? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts in the comment section below.
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