Google Pixel 9 Pro Review For Photographers: ALL-IN on AI!

Summary

In this detailed review of the Google Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL, the focus is on the camera's new AI-driven features, such as the Magic Editor and generative AI tools that enhance photos and create new content. While the hardware remains largely similar to last year, the generative AI offers users a fun and creative way to edit and manipulate images. The review emphasizes the potential of these tools for casual photographers and social media users but notes that they are not yet at a level to replace professional photography. It’s a unique step in smartphone evolution, showcasing Google's innovation in AI technology.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Pixel 9 Pro's standout feature is its integration of generative AI tools for enhanced smartphone photography.
• 😀 The hardware remains mostly the same as the previous generation, with no major improvements in terms of physical specs.
• 😀 Generative AI can create new content in photos, such as replacing skies or adding objects, offering fun and creative possibilities.
• 😀 The new Magic Eraser and other AI photo enhancements make it easier to clean up images, but they sometimes create unnatural effects.
• 😀 The AI's ability to make adjustments, like replacing skies, can be both practical and playful, making the process more interactive.
• 😀 In low-light conditions, the Pixel 9 Pro performs decently, though there are still limitations in handling extreme scenarios like fireworks.
• 😀 While the Pixel 9 Pro introduces innovative features, it doesn't necessarily replace professional photography, as results can vary in quality.
• 😀 AI-powered photo tools like generative AI are fun to experiment with, though results may sometimes appear unrealistic or 'hokey.'
• 😀 Some photo edits are more convincing than others, but users can refine results by repeatedly testing and adjusting the AI-generated outcomes.
• 😀 The absence of metadata or a watermark indicating AI usage in photos may be an issue for transparency in AI-generated content.
• 😀 While generative AI sets the Pixel 9 apart, competition from Apple and Samsung will likely lead to similar innovations in the future.

Q & A

What are the key differences between the Google Pixel 9 Pro and its predecessor, the Pixel 8 series?

The main differences lie in the new generative AI capabilities and slight camera upgrades. The hardware design and sensor configurations remain largely the same as the Pixel 8 series, but the new software improvements, particularly in AI-driven photography and video, are the standout features.

How has the camera system on the Pixel 9 Pro evolved compared to the Pixel 8?

The camera system retains a 50MP main sensor, with an improved 48MP 5x zoom telephoto lens featuring dual-pixel autofocus. The ultra-wide lens is brighter with an f/1.7 aperture. The selfie camera has also received a significant upgrade to 42MP with autofocus, offering a wider field of view.

What is the generative AI feature on the Pixel 9 Pro and how does it work?

Generative AI on the Pixel 9 Pro allows users to enhance or modify their photos by generating new elements. This includes features like 'Magic Eraser' to remove unwanted objects, 'Add Me' to create group photos, and AI-powered editing tools for photo manipulation. The AI can add creative elements, such as placing animals or objects into photos, based on the scene's context.

Is the AI-generated content always realistic, and are there any limitations?

While the AI-generated content can be fun and sometimes convincing, it often has limitations such as unrealistic additions (e.g., strange objects or awkwardly placed elements) and occasional artifacts like distorted reflections or misaligned lighting. The results vary, and users may need to experiment to get satisfactory outcomes.

How does the Pixel 9 Pro handle low-light situations in photography and video?

The Pixel 9 Pro's camera system features an improved low-light performance thanks to its AI tools and enhanced image processing. However, the review highlights that video results still need work, especially in low-light, where AI-driven enhancements help, but true professional-level control is lacking.

Does the Pixel 9 Pro's AI feature replace traditional photography or videography techniques?

No, the AI feature does not replace traditional photography or videography. While it offers creative enhancements for casual users, it is not yet at a level that can substitute professional tools, especially in video production and high-quality image capture.

What role does AI play in video production on the Pixel 9 Pro?

AI plays a role in improving video quality by enhancing low-light performance, adjusting for noise reduction, and utilizing multiple lenses for better shots. However, there are still notable limitations, such as lack of 24fps recording and less control over advanced exposure settings.

Are there any significant hardware improvements in the Pixel 9 Pro compared to previous models?

The Pixel 9 Pro does not feature significant hardware improvements over the Pixel 8 series, aside from the design updates and display enhancements. The review emphasizes that the real advancements are software-based, particularly with the new AI capabilities.

What are the potential applications of generative AI in photography and social media?

Generative AI in photography allows users to create more visually engaging content for social media. It can be used for enhancing images, cleaning up photos, or adding creative elements. This is especially useful for casual users or influencers who want to quickly edit or personalize their posts without professional tools.

What is the main takeaway from the review regarding the Pixel 9 Pro's generative AI feature?

The generative AI feature of the Pixel 9 Pro is considered fun and innovative, providing new creative possibilities for casual photographers. While it’s not yet perfect and can sometimes produce unrealistic or fake results, it opens up exciting possibilities for users to experiment with their photos and videos.