Google’s Pixel 9 Lineup Exposed: Leaked Images Reveal Major Design Changes and Specs
In a massive leak just weeks before Google's anticipated August 13th event, photos and specifications of the entire Pixel 9 series have surfaced online. The leak, originating from Taiwan's NCC regulatory agency, gives us our first real look at four new models, including a revamped Pixel Fold.
A Quartet of Pixels
The leak confirms that Google plans to release four devices in the Pixel 9 family:
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 9 Pro
- Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Each model brings its own set of changes and improvements, with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold stealing the spotlight as the most dramatically redesigned device.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Folding Evolution
The successor to the original Pixel Fold showcases several notable design changes:
- Repositioned inner selfie camera: Now located in the corner of the screen
- New rear camera arrangement: Abandons the iconic Pixel camera bar for a square module
- Slimmer bezels: Appears to have reduced top and bottom bezels on the inner display
- Improved hinge: Photos show the device lying completely flat when open, unlike its predecessor
While it's difficult to confirm from images alone, the display crease also seems less pronounced, potentially addressing a common complaint about foldable devices.
Standard Models: Familiar, Yet Refined
The non-folding Pixel 9 models retain more familiar designs:
- Pixel 9: Features two rear cameras in a pill-shaped module within the signature camera bar
- Pixel 9 Pro/Pro XL: Boasts a triple camera setup, with an additional temperature sensor
All models continue to use a variation of the distinctive horizontal camera bar that has become a hallmark of recent Pixel designs.
Battery and Charging Specifications
The NCC leak also revealed battery capacities and approximate charging speeds for the Pixel 9 lineup:
Model | Battery Capacity | Approx. Charging Speed |
Pixel 9 | 4,558 mAh | 24.12W |
Pixel 9 Pro | 4,558 mAh | 25.20W |
Pixel 9 Pro XL | 4,942 mAh | 32.67W |
Pixel 9 Pro Fold | 4,560 mAh (split) | 20.25W |
Note: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's battery is divided into two cells (1,183 mAh + 3,377 mAh).
While these charging speeds are likely to be slightly lower than the final advertised rates, they hint at modest improvements over the Pixel 8 series. The Pixel 9 Pro XL, in particular, may support at least 35W fast charging, a welcome upgrade from its predecessor's 30W limit.
What's Next?
With Google's official unveiling just weeks away, this comprehensive leak gives us a tantalizing preview of what's to come. While design changes appear evolutionary rather than revolutionary for most models, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold seems poised to address some key criticisms of the original.
As always, it's important to approach leaks with a degree of skepticism. However, the detailed nature of these NCC filings lends significant credibility to the information. We'll know for certain when Google takes the stage on August 13th to reveal its next generation of Pixel devices.
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