Google Store Memorial Day Sale: $200 Off Pixel 9 and 9 Pro XL
In late May 2025, the US Google Store launched a Memorial Day promotion, offering $200 off both the Pixel 9 and the Pixel 9 Pro XL. This marked one of the most attractive direct-from-manufacturer discounts of the year, lowering the price of the Pro XL to a more accessible level. The sale, which followed a similar discount a month earlier, was clearly aimed at clearing inventory ahead of the next-generation Pixel launch expected later in the year.
Best Accessories for the Pixel 9 Series
With the Pixel 9 series gaining more attention, accessory makers have responded with a wider selection of high-quality cases, chargers, and screen protectors. In a video roundup from May 2025, several top picks were highlighted, including rugged cases for outdoor use, slim clear cases that show off the phone's design, and MagSafe-compatible options that add functionality. The accessory ecosystem has matured significantly, giving users plenty of choice without sacrificing quality.
Amazon Deal: Pixel 9 Pro XL for $699
In March 2025, Amazon outdid Google's own store by offering the Pixel 9 Pro XL for just $699. This $200 discount made the phone a strong contender against other flagships, and many tech analysts noted that at that price, the Pixel 9 Pro XL offered exceptional value for its camera system, software updates, and AI features. The deal was widely reported and sold out quickly, signaling high demand.
Best Buy Glitch: Pixel 9 Pro XL Briefly at $599
Later that same month, Best Buy briefly listed the Pixel 9 Pro XL for only $599—a $500 discount from its usual price. The deal appears to have been a pricing error or a very short-lived promotion, as it was pulled within hours. Those who managed to snag the phone at that price got an incredible bargain, but the event highlighted how aggressive retailer pricing can be for Google's top-tier devices.
Long-Term Review: Solidifying the Google Smartphone
In January 2025, a long-term review of the Pixel 9 Pro XL examined how the phone held up after several months of use. The review praised the device's camera consistency, smooth performance, and the integration of AI features like Magic Editor and Live Translate. However, it also noted that charging speeds still lagged behind some rivals, and the build quality, while premium, didn't feel as refined as the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Overall, the review concluded that the Pixel 9 Pro XL had solidified Google's position in the premium smartphone space.
Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: Best of Android?
A comparison video from January 2025 pitted the Pixel 9 Pro XL against the newly launched Galaxy S25 Ultra. The analysis covered design, display, performance, software, and camera capabilities. While the Galaxy S25 Ultra offered superior multitasking and a brighter display, the Pixel 9 Pro XL won points for its simpler software experience, faster updates, and better still photography, especially in low light. The choice came down to whether users preferred Samsung's feature richness or Google's clean, AI-focused approach.
Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. OnePlus 13: Brains vs. Brawn
Another comparison, this time with the OnePlus 13, explored the trade-offs between brain and brawn. The OnePlus 13 boasted faster charging and a smoother 120Hz display at a lower price, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL leveraged Google's computational photography and exclusive software features. The video concluded that the Pixel was better for users who prioritize camera quality and timely updates, while the OnePlus 13 appealed to those seeking raw performance and value.
LineageOS Officially Supports Pixel 9 Series
By the end of 2024, the popular custom ROM LineageOS added official support for the entire Pixel 9 lineup, including the Pro XL. This was a major milestone for the modding community, as LineageOS offers a clean, bloat-free Android experience with regular security patches. The official support meant that users could unlock their bootloader and install a completely different OS while still maintaining stability, giving the Pixel 9 Pro XL a second life beyond Google's software support timeline.
2024 Pixel Buyer's Guide
In late November 2024, a comprehensive buyer's guide helped consumers choose among the five Google Pixel phones released that year: Pixel 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold. The guide emphasized that the Pro XL was the best option for those who wanted the largest screen and best camera system without the foldable price tag. It also noted that the regular Pixel 9 offered the best value, while the Fold was only for early adopters willing to pay a premium.
Pixel 9 Pro XL Among Top 10 Premium Phones in US
In November 2024, sales data revealed that the Pixel 9 Pro XL had entered the top 10 premium smartphones sold in the United States, alongside devices from Apple and Samsung. Google's overall Pixel 9 series saw a 20% year-over-year increase in sales, thanks in part to strong carrier promotions and improved brand recognition. This marked a significant achievement for Google, which had struggled to break into the premium segment in previous years.
Bluetooth Issues Addressed Through Updates
Early Pixel 9 series users reported frustrating Bluetooth connectivity problems, including random disconnections and audio glitches. By October 2024, software updates had largely resolved these issues. Google's responsiveness to user feedback was praised, though the initial problems had caused some dissatisfaction. The fix was rolled out in stages, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL receiving the patch first.
Mous Case Deal
In October 2024, the Mous Clarity 2.0 case for the Pixel 9 Pro XL was discounted to just $21, down from its usual $60 price. The deal was a great opportunity for users to pick up a high-quality, protective case that supported wireless charging and offered good drop protection. Mous cases are known for their innovation and stylish design, making this a popular temporary offer.
Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: AI Phone Face-Off
When Apple released the iPhone 16 Pro Max in September 2024, tech reviewers quickly compared it to the Pixel 9 Pro XL. The video analysis highlighted that both phones were now prioritizing AI features, but Google's implementation felt more integrated into the everyday camera and assistant experience, while Apple focused on privacy and on-device processing. The Pixel won on zoom photography and generative editing, while the iPhone led in video recording and ecosystem lock-in.
Android 15 Beta Program Opens to Pixel 9 Pro and Fold
In September 2024, Google expanded its Android 15 Beta Program to include the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro Fold, with the standard Pro XL already eligible. This allowed early adopters to test new features like improved privacy controls, satellite messaging enhancements, and better multitasking. The beta program attracted developers and enthusiasts eager to get a head start on the next major Android version.
Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Price vs. Utility
A video from September 2024 compared the Pixel 9 Pro XL to the much more expensive Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The analysis concluded that the Fold's $1,800 price tag was hard to justify for most users unless they specifically needed a foldable screen for multitasking. The Pro XL offered nearly identical camera performance and software features at half the price, making it the more sensible choice.
Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. Galaxy S24 Ultra: Battle of the Big Hitters
Another comparison set the Pixel 9 Pro XL against the Galaxy S24 Ultra, released earlier in 2024. While the S24 Ultra had better battery life and a built-in S Pen, the Pixel 9 Pro XL excelled in point-and-shoot photography and received faster OS updates. The video concluded that the S24 Ultra was better for power users and productivity, while the Pixel was the better everyday companion for photo enthusiasts.
Pixel 9 Pro XL Review: Brilliance Behind the AI
In early September 2024, a full review of the Pixel 9 Pro XL described it as a phone where AI shines without overwhelming the user. The review highlighted the new Tensor G4 chip's ability to run AI models on-device, enabling features like real-time translation, advanced photo editing, and smarter call screening. While the design was well-received, the review noted that the phone's charging speed and battery life were average compared to the competition.
Corner Tap Issue on Pixel 9 Pro XL
Shortly after launch, some Pixel 9 Pro XL owners reported that the screen would sometimes fail to register taps near the corners, particularly when trying to close the Gboard keyboard. Google acknowledged the issue and rolled out a software update in early September 2024 that improved touch sensitivity in those areas. The fix was well-received, though a small number of users continued to experience intermittent problems.
Google 45W Charger Test: Not Quite What It Seems
A video from August 2024 tested Google's official 45W charger with the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which was the first Google phone to support charging above 30W. The results showed that while the charger could deliver higher peak wattage, real-world charging speeds were only moderately faster than with a 30W charger due to thermal throttling. The video concluded that Google's charger was still overpriced, and third-party alternatives offered better value.
Satellite SOS on Pixel 9 Series
Google introduced Satellite SOS functionality with the Pixel 9 series, enabling emergency communication when cellular networks are unavailable. A detailed guide from August 2024 explained how to set up the feature, which pairs with Apple's similar service. The Pixel implementation uses the satellite network provided by Skylo and is available in the US initially, with plans for expansion.
Mint Mobile Deal: Up to $400 Off with Free Service
At launch, Mint Mobile offered the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro XL for $400 off when purchased with a six-month service plan. The carrier also provided six months of free service, making the effective cost of the Pro XL very low. This deal was part of Mint's aggressive push to attract new customers, and it sold out within days.
Pixel 7 Pro to Pixel 9 Pro Upgrade Path
A video from August 2024 examined whether upgrading from a Pixel 7 Pro to a Pixel 9 Pro (or Pro XL) was worthwhile. The upgrade path analysis showed that camera improvements were significant, especially in telephoto and night mode, and the performance boost from the Tensor G4 was noticeable. However, for users satisfied with their Pixel 7 Pro's performance, the upgrade was recommended only if they wanted the latest AI features or a brighter display.
Pixel 9 Pro XL Battery Hard to Remove in Teardown
Teardowns of the Pixel 9 Pro XL in late August 2024 revealed that the battery had been made more difficult to remove compared to previous models. This was seen as a step backward for repairability. The adhesive used was stronger, and the pull tabs were fragile, often breaking during attempts. iFixit gave the phone a lower repairability score as a result, though Google defended the design as necessary for improved water resistance and structural rigidity.
AT&T 'Any Condition' Trade-In Offer
AT&T launched a special promotion in August 2024 that allowed customers to trade in any phone in any condition for a free Pixel 9 Pro or 9 Pro XL with qualifying installment plans. This offer was similar to those seen for older iPhone launches and demonstrated carriers' willingness to subsidize Google's premium phones. The promotion significantly boosted initial sales numbers for the Pixel 9 series.
Source:9to5Google News