Leaked images of the upcoming Pixel 9 Pro show the phone in-hand. The leaks indicate a sleeker design, a triple-camera setup, and a more compact size. Additionally, it seems the phone is equipped with the older UFS 3.1 storage, rather than the faster and more efficient UFS 4.0.
The Pixel 9 series marks the next major release for Google’s Pixel brand. Given Google’s history, it’s not surprising to hear that the Pixel 9 Pro has already leaked six months ahead of its launch! The leak reveals the device in all its glory. While there’s much to discuss about the device’s design, we’ve noticed one potential issue that could be concerning if true.
If you’ve been keeping up with the Pixel news, you might be aware that the Pixel 9 lineup will include four models — Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold. The 9 Pro Fold is essentially the Pixel Fold 2 in disguise, while the 9 Pro introduces a fresh form factor to the series. Let’s start with the main issue mentioned in the leak from Rozetked before we delve into other details.
One of leaked image showed the Pixel 9 Pro in Fastboot mode (see image above). This screen provides some details such as the phone’s codename “Caiman” and the 16GB LPDDR5 RAM module from Micron. The “UFS” value indicates “128GB Samsung”, indicating the storage is UFS 3.1 rather than the newer UFS 4.0, which begins at 256GB.
One thing that bothered me about the Pixel 8 Pro was its absence of UFS 4.0 storage, especially when flagship devices like the Galaxy S24 came with UFS 4.0. It would be disappointing if that remains the case because UFS 4.0 offers nearly double the read and write speeds and is twice as efficient as UFS 3.1. I was optimistic that the Pixel 8 Pro’s 256GB model would feature UFS 4.0, but that didn’t materialize. However, I’m hopeful for the Pixel 9 Pro series to bring this upgrade.
Additionally, leaked images of the Pixel 9 Pro show a triple camera setup. The camera bar now appears as a floating island, no longer extending to the edges of the phone. It features boxy sides with curved edges, resembling the iPhone 15 Pro. The camera bar also indicates that Google is keeping the temperature sensor. The 9 Pro’s form factor appears visually similar to the Pixel 8.
Overall, the design of the Pixel 9 Pro marks a departure from Google’s previous curvy and warm aesthetics, seen in the Pixel 8 series. This new design seems tailored to make users switching from the iPhone feel comfortable with its in-hand feel. However, the same may not hold true for Pixel users considering a switch to the Pixel 9 Pro. Personally, design isn’t a major concern for me, but considering Android’s embrace of many curvy aesthetics in recent years, the sharper design may not align well.
As for Google not upgrading the Pixel 9 series to faster storage, I do find it notable. Faster storage can significantly enhance user experience, especially in terms of app loading times and overall device performance. It matters to me because it contributes to the device’s overall speed and responsiveness. What do you think about Google’s decision? Share your thoughts in the comments below.