New Google Pixel 9 renders reveal third model in lineup

Google’s highly anticipated Pixel 9 lineup is taking shape, and fresh leaks point to a major shake-up in strategy. Renowned leaker Steve Hemmerstoffer (aka OnLeaks), via 91Mobiles, has unveiled exclusive renders that showcase not only the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL, but also a surprising third model – a standard, non-Pro Pixel 9. This marks the first time Google has offered an ‘XL’ flagship since the Pixel 5.

Earlier this year, leaks showed off what everyone assumed to be the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. However, OnLeaks has now claimed that the previous leaks were actually of the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL.

The latest renders reveal a design departure from past Pixel flagships. The vanilla Pixel 9 will feature a body size similar to the Pixel 8 with rounded corners and a flat display. A centered punch-hole houses the selfie camera, and the power and volume buttons reside on the right edge of the device. Google is maintaining its signature camera housing but opts for a dual-camera setup in this standard model, instead of the triple-camera system found on the Pro versions. Check out the renders below:

A 6.03-inch display hints at a slightly smaller screen than the 6.1-inch Pixel 9 Pro, marking a shift toward more pocketable devices. Overall dimensions closely mirror the Pixel 9 Pro, suggesting potentially larger bezels on the non-Pro version. Of course, this is something we see with priced models from other brands too. That said, here’s a 360-degree video of the Pixel 9:

Important note: The 6.03-inch screen size mentioned is calculated while accounting for the rounded corners. In response to a query about how they calculated the screen size, OnLeaks confirmed that the screen size is actually 6.28-inches. This means the Pixel 9 will actually be a tad taller and wider than the Pixel 8. So don’t expect the Pixel 9 to be a “mini” Pixel.

This strategic three-pronged release approach has significant implications. A leaked roadmap last year highlighted that the inclusion of a standard Pixel 9 could spell the end of Google’s mid-range ‘A’ series, possibly as early as 2025. This move would position the company to more directly compete with Apple and Samsung in the premium flagship market. Although, I feel like an affordable “mini” Pixel should replace the ‘A’ series, if the company gets rid of it.

While the renders focus primarily on design, additional rumors suggest exciting features coming to the Pixel 9 series. These include ‘Adaptive Touch,’ which dynamically adjusts touchscreen sensitivity for optimal use regardless of environment or screen protectors. Moreover, the Pixel 9 lineup is anticipated to debut Google’s next-generation Tensor G4 chipset and support Qi2 wireless charging for faster speeds and superior magnetic alignment.

Google’s Pixel phones have always prioritized innovative camera technology and computational photography prowess. With the Pixel 9 series, it seems the company is ready to raise the stakes in overall design and hardware as well. The inclusion of a ‘standard’ Pixel 9, alongside Pro and Pro XL versions is interesting. I hope this move results in the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL offering better feature parity between the two.