Tag: Pixel 9 Pro

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro and Phones Get Android 16 Update and Features

    Google Pixel 9 Pro and Phones Get Android 16 Update and Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16 update is now available for Pixel smartphones, featuring design changes, Live Updates, and security enhancements.
    2. New “Pixel VIPs” feature allows users to organize important contacts’ calls, messages, and birthdays in one spot, with notifications enabled during “do not disturb” mode.
    3. Gboard introduces AI-generated stickers and the Pixel Recorder app can create AI-driven summaries of voice memos in multiple languages.
    4. Camera app now includes a tutorial button for functions and the Magnifier app can scan for text through the camera.
    5. Google Photos introduces an AI-powered one-click feature to enhance images.

    Today, Google has rolled out the Android 16 update for its Pixel smartphones. If you own a Pixel 9 Pro (starting at $999 on Amazon) or another compatible device, you can already get the newest operating system. The Android 16 update mainly brings design changes, Live Updates akin to those on the Apple iPhone, along with security enhancements.

    Exciting New Features

    Pixel users can also take advantage of a bunch of exclusive functionalities with the latest Feature Drop for June 2025. One of the highlights is the introduction of “Pixel VIPs,” which gather previous calls, messages, or birthdays from selected contacts into a single spot. You can even display this information on your home screen using a widget. Notably, calls from these VIPs will still ring through when “do not disturb” mode is activated.

    Enhancements in Applications

    In a fun twist, Gboard can now create stickers using AI and text input, so users don’t need to toggle between different apps. Also, the Pixel Recorder app is now capable of generating AI-driven summaries of voice memos in several languages, including German. Furthermore, the Feature Drop brings “Clear Voice” to the Pixel 8 series, a tool that aims to eliminate unwanted background noise from voice memos.

    Camera and More Improvements

    For those who love photography, the Camera app on Pixel devices has a new question mark button that opens a tutorial detailing its various functions. Additionally, Google’s Magnifier app can now scan for text visible through the phone’s camera, such as restaurant menus. Finally, Google Photos has introduced a new one-click feature that leverages AI to enhance images.

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    Google Pixel 9 Pro and Phones Get Android 16 Update and FeaturesGoogle Pixel 9 Pro and Phones Get Android 16 Update and Features

     

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  • Android 16 Leak Unveils New Design for Google Pixel 9 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google launched the public beta version of Android 16 in January, with the final version expected in June.
    2. Major updates and features will be revealed at the Google I/O event on May 20th and 21st.
    3. Android 16 will allow users to customize app icon shapes, offering options like rectangular and circular designs.
    4. The system settings app is getting a redesign with vibrant icons and clearer section separations.
    5. Enhancements to the volume slider and lock screen display are coming, along with updated quick settings and menu bar icons.

    Google has already launched the initial public beta version of Android 16 in January, with the final version of this mobile operating system anticipated to arrive in June. The beta was mainly focused on establishing the technical groundwork, but it didn’t introduce significant visual alterations. Major updates are expected to be revealed during the upcoming Google I/O event scheduled for May 20th and 21st.

    Hidden Features Discovered

    Nevertheless, Android Authority has apparently uncovered several concealed design modifications in the fourth beta version of Android 16. It’s still uncertain whether Google will actually include all of these alterations mentioned below, and it’s possible that certain features may be exclusive to Google’s custom launcher available on the Pixel 9 Pro (priced from $799 on Amazon) and other Pixel devices.

    Changes to App Icons and Settings

    One of the most striking modifications is the customizable shape of app icons on the Android 16 home screen. Users could soon have the option to select from rectangular, circular, and three other shapes, as illustrated in the screenshot below.

    The system settings application is also undergoing a significant redesign, featuring vibrant icons, clearer separations among various sections, and a new design for the sliders.

    Volume Slider and Lock Screen Tweaks

    In addition, Google is enhancing the volume slider design and making adjustments to how the time and date are displayed on the lock screen. The blurred wallpaper will now be visible in the background when users enter their passcode.

    Android 16 is set to introduce new quick settings, maintaining the same layout but with a refreshed appearance. Moreover, Google is reportedly planning to update some icons in the menu bar. Since the official release of Android 16 is still over a month away, it’s reasonable to believe that the new OS update will include additional changes and features not yet revealed.

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  • OnePlus 13T Leaked Marketing Image Reveals Stunning Design

    OnePlus 13T Leaked Marketing Image Reveals Stunning Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OnePlus 13T features a vertical camera module with two primary rear cameras, influenced by designs from Google Pixel and iPhone 16.
    2. The function of the second main camera is uncertain, possibly being a telephoto or ultra-wide-angle lens, with a potential laser autofocus or macro sensor below the flash.
    3. The leaked color option for the OnePlus 13T is “Cloud Ink Black,” with additional colors expected: Morning Mist Gray and Heartbeat Pink.
    4. There is no official launch date yet, but speculation suggests the OnePlus 13T may debut in the final week of the month.
    5. The recent leak provides a closer look at the phone, confirming important design details and enhancing its marketing appeal.

    As seen on Weibo by Digital Chat Station, a marketing image of the OnePlus 13T has leaked. This phone was recently showcased in a video that highlighted its impressive weight balance, but this new leak gives us a closer look and confirms some important details about the device.

    Camera Design and Features

    The OnePlus 13T is set to have two primary rear cameras arranged vertically within a camera module that takes cues from the latest Google Pixel phones (buy the Pixel 9 Pro on Amazon) as well as the regular iPhone 16. There are also resemblances to Xiaomi’s flagship model from 2020, the Mi 11. The exact purpose of the second main camera remains unclear; it could either be a telephoto or an ultra-wide-angle lens. Additionally, the sensor located beneath the flash might be a laser autofocus module or a macro sensor.

    Color Options and Release Date

    The OnePlus 13T shown is in a shade called “Cloud Ink Black,” and sources indicate that it will come in two other colors—Morning Mist Gray and Heartbeat Pink. Even though there’s no official announcement for the 13T’s launch date yet, many believe it might debut in the final week of the month, which seems like a reasonable guess at this stage.

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    OnePlus 13T Leaked Marketing Image Reveals Stunning Design
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  • Free Google Pixel Update Boosts GPU Performance for All Phones

    Free Google Pixel Update Boosts GPU Performance for All Phones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16 will introduce a long-awaited desktop mode and may reduce boot times by up to 30%.
    2. Fingerprint authentication will be possible even when the Pixel’s screen is off.
    3. Significant GPU performance improvements have been observed in Pixel devices during benchmark tests.
    4. The performance boosts are primarily due to new GPU drivers from Android 15 QPR2, not Android 16.
    5. Performance increases will mainly benefit apps optimized for the Vulkan graphics API.

    The stable release of Android 16 is still a few months away. However, public beta versions have shown some exciting features that are on the horizon. For instance, it looks like Google’s long-awaited desktop mode may finally come with Android 16, along with a potential improvement that could cut boot times by as much as 30%. Additionally, the tech giant is also working on allowing fingerprint authentication even when a Pixel’s screen is off.

    Performance Improvements Spotted

    In addition, users on Reddit have found significant enhancements in the Geekbench 6 GPU benchmark tests for various models, from the Pixel 6a all the way to the newest Pixel 9 Pro, which is currently priced at $849 on Amazon. Notably, the modest Pixel 7a has been seen performing on par with Google’s flagship devices. At first, this was credited to the advancements made in Android 16.

    New Findings Regarding Performance Gains

    That being said, Android Authority and others have found that these performance improvements are not actually linked to Android 16. Instead, this boost in performance appears to come from new GPU drivers that were reportedly released with Android 15 QPR2, which Google made available earlier this month. As a result, any Pixel device powered by Tensor should see a performance increase. However, this will mainly apply to apps that are optimized for the Vulkan graphics API, like Geekbench 6’s GPU benchmark test.

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    Free Google Pixel Update Boosts GPU Performance for All PhonesFree Google Pixel Update Boosts GPU Performance for All Phones
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  • Pixel 9 Pro Production Costs Fall 11% Compared to Previous Model

    Pixel 9 Pro Production Costs Fall 11% Compared to Previous Model

    A new report by Nikkei has revealed that the production cost of Google’s Pixel 9 Pro is around $406. This marks a decrease of about 11 percent compared to the Pixel 8 Pro. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these two devices are not exactly the same size, which complicates the cost comparison somewhat.

    Cost Breakdown of Pixel 9 Pro

    Looking at the costs in detail, the most expensive part of the Pixel 9 Pro is the Tensor G4 chip, which costs $80. Following that is the Samsung M14 display, contributing an additional $75 to the total. The camera components account for $61 of the overall cost. The lower manufacturing expense can be partly attributed to the Pixel 9 Pro’s smaller design compared to the Pixel 8 Pro, allowing for a more compact screen and battery.

    Comparison with iPhone 16 Pro

    On the other hand, Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro is more expensive to manufacture, with costs reaching $568. This is a 6 percent increase from the last model. The A18 Pro chip comes in at $135, while the M14 display and camera parts add $110 and $91, respectively.

    Despite the higher production costs, both the iPhone 16 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro are available at the same retail price of $999. The contrast in manufacturing expenses suggests that the two companies have different profit margins. It’s also essential to remember that these figures do not include other significant expenses like research and development, marketing, and distribution.

    Google’s Strategy

    With the Pixel 9 Pro’s lower manufacturing costs, it appears that Google is focusing on enhancing production efficiency to maintain competitive pricing in the premium market segment.

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  • Google Pixel 9 Pro Materials Cost $400, Cheaper than Pixel 8 Pro

    Google Pixel 9 Pro Materials Cost $400, Cheaper than Pixel 8 Pro

    A recent report from Nikkei reveals that Google has successfully created its new flagship phone, the Pixel 9 Pro, at a lower production cost than previous models, even with enhancements in various hardware and software features.

    Cost Breakdown of Pixel 9 Pro’s BOM

    The estimated Bill of Materials (BOM) for the Pixel 9 Pro is around $406, which is about an 11% decrease from the BOM of the Pixel 8 Pro. This cost reduction mainly results from savings on the display and camera parts, which are often optimized by manufacturers to make premium devices more affordable for customers.

    A closer look at the component breakdown shows that key parts like the Tensor G4 processor, the display, and the camera contribute to the BOM. The display, sourced from Samsung, now costs $75, while the camera system is priced at $61. These amounts are significantly lower than those of earlier Pixel versions.

    Comparison with iPhone 16 Pro’s BOM

    In comparison, Apple reportedly incurs around $568 to produce the iPhone 16 Pro, a device recognized for its high-quality construction and premium pricing. The cost breakdown for Apple’s device includes $110 for the same Samsung M14 display, $91 for advanced camera components, and $135 for the A18 Pro chipset. The higher BOM for the iPhone can be attributed to Apple’s choice of pricier components to set apart its high-performance devices in the premium smartphone sector.

    While Google’s Pixel devices often outperform Apple’s in terms of image quality, much of this success is credited to software processing. Google emphasizes cost-effective component choices while prioritizing features like AI-driven software enhancements. The company also invests heavily in software development (including AI), which is not reflected in the BOM cost.

    Future Implications: Potential BOM Increase for Tensor G5

    The costs of processors play a crucial role in the BOM, influencing both performance and energy efficiency. The Pixel 9 Pro’s Tensor G4, priced competitively at $80, may not reach the performance levels of Apple’s $135 A18 Pro chipset or the Snapdragon 8 Elite, which costs nearly $200. This price difference showcases each company’s unique strategies in chipset design and the real-world performance expectations for their flagship products.

    Even though the Pixel 9 Pro has a lower BOM, Google’s choice to save on materials such as the display and camera does not imply a reduction in quality. The Pixel series is known for its outstanding photography and seamless integration with Google’s AI software, ensuring a competitive user experience without raising prices.

    Looking ahead, while the current Tensor G4 remains affordable, there are speculations that Google’s next Tensor G5 processor will be manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm process. This change from Samsung Foundry’s 4nm technology is anticipated to enhance performance and efficiency. However, this shift may also increase production costs due to the higher expenses associated with advanced semiconductor technologies.

    If these costs do rise, it could affect pricing for future Pixel devices. Although pricier, the 3nm Tensor G5 might deliver essential optimizations, tackling issues that Pixel users have encountered with past Tensor processors, such as heat management and battery longevity.

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  • Google Automates Temperature Check for Pixel Pro Users

    Google Automates Temperature Check for Pixel Pro Users

    Google’s Pixel 8 Pro and 9 Pro smartphones feature a useful temperature sensor located on the back. This sensor allows users to check the temperature of various objects or even a person’s body. Google appears to be enhancing this functionality to improve user experience.

    Upcoming Automatic Temperature Detection

    At present, the Pixel Thermometer app requires users to choose the type of material they wish to measure, such as food, metal, or glass, prior to taking a temperature reading. While this isn’t a significant hassle, it does add an extra step compared to traditional thermometers.

    According to a report from Android Authority, there are indications that the newest version of the Pixel Thermometer app (version 1.0.676362763) may introduce an automatic material detection feature. The app’s coding hints that Google is developing a function that will automatically determine the object the phone is aimed at, removing the need for users to make manual selections.

    Manual and Automatic Options

    However, it seems that Google will keep the manual selection option available. The code explicitly states that both automatic detection and manual selection will be provided, allowing users to choose how they want to proceed. This flexibility could be beneficial if the automatic detection isn’t entirely accurate or if a specific material necessitates a more careful selection.

    Additionally, the report indicates that Google plans to implement a “TFLite model” to facilitate this feature. TFLite is a compact machine-learning model suitable for device-based tasks like image recognition. The app may leverage these models alongside data from the phone’s camera to assess what you are aiming at.

    Feature Availability

    Currently, this update with the new feature has not yet been launched. The team at Android Authority attempted to activate it but had no success. Despite this, the code suggests that the automatic detection feature is forthcoming. When it does arrive, it is expected to be integrated into the existing material selection interface of the app.

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  • Google Pixel 9 Series Renders: Design & Color Options Revealed

    Google Pixel 9 Series Renders: Design & Color Options Revealed

    Google is gearing up to release the Pixel 9 series on August 13. Yet, a recent leak has provided us with a detailed preview of the design and color choices for the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. These images, shared by tipster @MysteryLupin, are available for viewing below.

    Pixel 9

    Consistent with earlier leaks, the renders depict a flat design with a camera island that is no longer attached to the frame. Every model features centrally placed punch-hole front cameras.

    Pixel 9 Pro

    Both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro showcase a single pill-shaped camera cutout on the back. In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold features dual pill-shaped cutouts. Despite this, the standard Pixel 9 still sports a dual camera setup on its rear. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold appears to have a triple camera configuration on the back, akin to the Pixel 9 Pro.

    Pixel 9 Pro Fold

    The Pixel 9 is rumored to feature a 6.3″ “Actua” display, which is marginally larger than the 6.2″ screen of its predecessor. The main and ultrawide cameras reportedly include 50MP and 48MP sensors, respectively. This marks an upgrade from the previous 12MP ultrawide sensor. The device retains a 10.5MP selfie camera, similar to its predecessor. Further reliable information about the sensors isn’t available at this moment.

    While the renders indicate three models, an earlier rumor suggested that the Pixel 9 series comprises four models – Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

    Performance

    Regarding performance, the series will be driven by the Tensor G4 chipset, which is expected to offer only minor enhancements over last year’s Tensor G3. For more details on the Tensor G4, click here.

    Google Pixel 9 Series Renders: Design & Color Options Revealed
    Google Pixel 9 Series Renders: Design & Color Options Revealed
    Google Pixel 9 Series Renders: Design & Color Options Revealed
    Google Pixel 9 Series Renders: Design & Color Options Revealed
    Google Pixel 9 Series Renders: Design & Color Options Revealed
    Google Pixel 9 Series Renders: Design & Color Options Revealed
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  • Pixel 9 Series Won’t Ship with Latest Android OS: A First for Google

    Pixel 9 Series Won’t Ship with Latest Android OS: A First for Google

    Google’s upcoming flagship phone series, the Pixel 9, is set for a global release on August 13th. As the launch date approaches, numerous leaks have surfaced, revealing various details about the new devices.

    A recent report has added an unexpected twist — the Pixel 9 might not feature the awaited Android 15 update at launch. Instead, it could come with Android 14, deviating from Google’s tradition of launching its phones with the latest Android version.

    Pixel 9 Series Models

    According to Android Headlines, all four models in the Pixel 9 series—the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Fold (the successor to the Pixel Fold), and the new Pixel 9 Pro XL—are anticipated to come with Android 14.

    Earlier this month, Google released the final beta version of Android 15, with the stable version expected soon. However, no exact release date has been provided; it could be anywhere between August and October. This means Android 15 isn’t ready for the Pixel 9’s initial release.

    Breaking Traditions

    This situation is unprecedented for Google. Historically, all Pixel smartphones have launched with the latest Android version available at the time. For instance, the Pixel 8 series, which debuted in October last year, came with Android 14 straight out of the box.

    However, the Pixel 9 series is launching two months earlier than usual, which is why it will not feature Android 15 at launch. If it had adhered to the October timeline of its predecessors, it likely would have included Android 15 from the start.

    Software Support Commitment

    Despite this delay, Google is expected to uphold its software support commitment. Beginning with the Pixel 8 series, the company started offering up to 7 years of updates, including OS upgrades, security patches, and Pixel feature drops. This commitment is expected to extend to the Pixel 9 series as well, ensuring the Pixel 9 receives software support until 2031.

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  • Pixel 9 Tensor G4 Specs Leak: Major Upgrade Over Tensor G3?

    Pixel 9 Tensor G4 Specs Leak: Major Upgrade Over Tensor G3?

    Google is gearing up to unveil the Pixel 9 series of smartphones on August 13. The rumor mill has already spilled numerous details about the upcoming Pixel 9 series and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold foldable phone. Interestingly, not much has been revealed about the Tensor G4 processor that will power these next-gen Pixel devices. A recent report by Android Authority indicates that the Tensor G4 will not be a significant upgrade over the Tensor G3.

    Tensor G4 Specifications Leaked

    The report states that the Tensor G4 will feature a 4+3+1 core layout, incorporating newer ARMv9.2 cores: the Cortex-A520, Cortex-A720, and Cortex-X4. These cores are clocked slightly higher than those in the G3, which includes four Cortex-A510, four Cortex-A715, and one Cortex-X3 core.

    Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Pixel 8 Pro Geekbench

    Initial Geekbench results point to an approximate 11% boost in single-core performance and a 3% improvement in multi-core performance. However, these results should be interpreted cautiously until more data is available.

    The Tensor G4 will come equipped with the new Exynos Modem 5400, which supports satellite connectivity and offers efficiency improvements, reportedly delivering up to 50% better power consumption compared to the Exynos Modem 5300 used in the Pixel 8. The GPU in the Tensor G4 remains the same Mali-G715 as in the Tensor G3, albeit clocked higher at 940MHz compared to 890MHz.

    Full Specifications

    The complete specifications of the Tensor G4’s CPU and GPU are as follows:

    • CPU (little cluster): 4x Cortex-A520 @ 1.95GHz
    • CPU (mid cluster): 3x Cortex-A720 @ 2.6 GHz
    • CPU (big cluster): 1x Cortex-X4 @ 3.1 GHz
    • GPU: Mali-G715 (unknown core number) @ 940MHz

    Despite these hardware updates, many of the custom IP blocks that define the Tensor chips, such as the Edge TPU, GXP, BigWave, and Titan M2 security chip, remain unchanged. The packaging technology for the Tensor G4 continues to be identified as FOPLP.

    Originally, the Tensor G4 was intended to be an entirely different chip built independently of Samsung, codenamed “redondo,” but delays led to the decision to collaborate with Samsung once more. As a result, the Tensor G4 (“zumapro”) represents a minimal upgrade over the Tensor G3 (“zuma”). In summary, while the Tensor G4 might not be a major step forward, it does bring some improvements, such as the new modem, which offers enhancements over its predecessor.

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