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Pixel 9 Pro XL unboxing and durability test: a solid build with new packaging design
Top 3 Key Points:
- New Packaging: The Pixel 9 Pro XL features redesigned packaging, including a unique sleeve and wrap.
- Durability: The Pixel 9 Pro XL is even more durable than its predecessor, surviving harsh scratch and bend tests.
- Design Updates: Notable design changes include a thicker camera bar and improved earpiece and antenna placement.
In anticipation of its upcoming launch, the Pixel 9 Pro XL has already gone through an unboxing and durability test by JerryRigEverything, revealing some key insights about Google’s latest flagship phone.
The unboxing experience of the Pixel 9 Pro XL starts with a fresh new packaging design. Instead of the traditional four-color “G” logo, the box now simply features “Google.” To access the phone, you first peel off two pill-shaped stickers on the back of the packaging, allowing you to slide off the outer sleeve. The box inside has the product name on the side and opens to reveal the phone, which is now covered by a sleeve that wraps around both the front and back. This is a step up from the Pixel 8, where the wrap only protected the display. The USB-C cable comes in slightly flatter packaging, adding to the sleek presentation.
When comparing the size of the new Pixel’s camera bar, it measures about 3.5 mm tall, thicker than a typical house key or about the height of two quarters stacked together. The front of the phone is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which showed “scratches at a level six with deeper grooves at a level seven” during testing. Above the 42MP front-facing camera, there’s an extremely thin earpiece slit, with a centered plastic antenna line placed just above it.
The durability test put the Pixel 9 Pro XL through its paces, including a razor blade being used to pop off the power button and volume rocker. While they could be reinserted, the aluminum rails did show scratches, demonstrating an extreme example of potential damage. The ultrasonic fingerprint sensor was also tested and managed to function even after enduring “copious amounts of level seven deeper grooves.”
A common mistake made by users is inserting the SIM ejection tool into the microphone hole next to the USB-C port, rather than the correct slot further away from the connector. This is something to watch out for when handling the device.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the test was the bend test. The Pixel 9 Pro XL proved to be even more robust than its predecessor, showing no creaky sounds or noticeable flexing, either from the front or back. This is a significant improvement over the Pixel 7 Pro, which developed a gap in the frame after bending. Google has claimed that the Pixel 9 series is “twice as durable as the Pixel 8,” and the test results seem to support this claim.
Overall, the Pixel 9 Pro XL not only introduces a fresh packaging design but also demonstrates significant durability improvements, making it one of the most solidly built devices Google has released to date.
Google has rolled out some exciting new features across its AI tools, including Gemini Live, NotebookLM, and the Honey extension for Chrome.
First, Gemini Live is now available for free in the U.S. on the Google app for Android and iOS. It lets users talk to Google’s AI assistant using their voice, with more natural back-and-forth conversations. A key feature is that you can now share your screen or turn on the camera so the assistant can help with what you’re seeing, like reading a document or identifying objects around you.
Next, NotebookLM—Google’s AI-powered research assistant—just added audio overviews. This means you can now listen to a quick summary of your notes or sources, which is great for multitasking or reviewing info while on the go. Google also increased the limit for source length, so you can add up to 200,000 words per source, making it more useful for big projects or research papers.
Lastly, Honey, the deal-finding tool that Google bought in 2020, now works through Chrome and has gained over 15 million users in just six months. Honey helps people find coupons and discounts while shopping online. The new version is powered by Gemini and can give more helpful suggestions by understanding what you’re looking at on the page.
With these updates, Google is pushing to make its AI tools more helpful, easy to use, and available for free where possible.
Google is bringing some interesting updates with Android 16 that aim to improve how Android works on larger screens and across different devices.
First, Android 16 is testing a new desktop mode. This lets users connect their phone to a bigger screen and use apps in resizable windows, more like a computer. It works well with a keyboard and mouse and supports split-screen for better multitasking. This could be useful for people who want to work on the go without needing a laptop.
Google is also improving how apps behave on large screens inside cars. With Android Automotive, apps will now adjust better to different screen sizes, especially ultra-wide displays. Developers will get new tools to make their apps look better and more usable in cars, even when the screen shape is unique.
On the software side, the Google Discover feed on Android is now showing website names below each article’s headline. This small change helps users know which site they’re reading from, adding more clarity and trust.
Lastly, Material You — Google’s design style — is evolving with a new theme called “Expressive.” This version brings more playful shapes, animations, and bolder color choices. Some of Google’s apps, like Fitbit, Meet, and Chat, are starting to use this refreshed look, making the user experience feel more modern and lively.
All of these updates show that Google wants Android to feel smooth, smart, and consistent no matter where or how you’re using it.
Google is making a few helpful changes to its apps and services for Pixel users. First, the “Phone by Google” app might soon drop the ability to save call notes and transcripts. This feature was used during call screening to jot down important points, but now it looks like Google wants users to use the Recorder app or take notes elsewhere. A recent app update hints that the “Delete Notes” button may be removed.
Next, Pixel phones are testing a new widget for Google Home. This widget gives users a quick look at smart home updates, like lights left on or doors unlocked, right from the home screen. The design follows Android’s usual widget style, and it could make it easier to stay on top of your home devices without opening the app.
Google Wallet is also getting better. At Google I/O 2025, the company shared that more features are coming soon. These include digital IDs, passes, and better support for tickets and transit cards. They’re also working on helping you automatically save things like airline boarding passes.
Lastly, Google is being more careful with how AI-generated content is handled. Publishers will get new tools to opt out of having their content used for AI training. Also, Android will soon have an “AI Mode” that alerts users when something is AI-generated, adding more transparency and trust. These changes may seem small, but they show Google is focusing on better privacy, easier access, and smarter tools for everyday use.
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