New video leak shows off Pixel 9 Pro XL alongside Pixel 8 Pro

A fresh video leak has given us our best look yet at Google’s upcoming Pixel 9 Pro XL, showcasing the device next to its predecessor, the Pixel 8 Pro. The comparison, shared by TikTok user @pixo_unpacking, reveals some significant design changes while maintaining a familiar overall size.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL appears to be nearly identical in dimensions to the Pixel 8 Pro, which should come as a relief to fans of larger phones who were worried about a potential size increase. However, the new model sports a drastically different aesthetic, with sharply squared-off edges replacing the curved sides of its predecessor.

Google’s design evolution is evident in other areas as well. The Pixel 9 Pro XL features more pronounced rounded corners, a design cue first introduced with the Pixel 8a earlier this year. The camera bar, a signature element of recent Pixel phones, has also received a makeover. It now sports a matte finish and no longer extends to the edges of the device, instead tapering off before reaching the sides.

While the overall footprint remains similar, the flat edges of the Pixel 9 Pro XL might make it feel bulkier in hand compared to the Pixel 8 Pro. This shift towards a more angular design language seems to draw inspiration from recent iPhone models.

The video also highlights the shared black colorway between the two devices, featuring matte back panels and glossy side rails. However, the similarities largely end there, as the Pixel 9 Pro XL represents a significant departure from Google’s previous design philosophy.

With practically everything about the Pixel 9 series already leaked, including camera details and geekbench scores, I wonder what Google has up its sleeves for the August 13 event.