Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL faces early troubles: design and performance issues highlight need for improvement

Top 3 Key Points:
- Wireless Charging Problems: Inconsistent wireless charging, even with Google’s Pixel Stand.
- Camera and Build Quality Issues: Problems with the telephoto lens and build inconsistencies, such as gaps in the camera bar.
- Difficult Disassembly: The new design makes the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s battery hard to remove, complicating repairs.
Google’s latest smartphones, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL, have been released with features that sound straight out of a tech fantasy. These devices promise to make everyday tasks easier, from organizing your photos and screenshots to transcribing phone calls. They even offer emergency services access when you lose signal.
However, the excitement is quickly turning into frustration for many users. Early adopters have reported several issues, including inconsistent wireless charging, camera problems, and questionable build quality.
Inconsistent Wireless Charging and Camera Issues
Many Pixel 9 Pro XL users have complained that wireless charging is unreliable, even when using Google’s Pixel Stand. Additionally, the camera, particularly when using the telephoto lens, has been reported to struggle with maintaining level shots during video recording. Some users have also noticed a small gap in the camera bar and condensation under the lens, which raises concerns about the overall build quality.
A Growing List of Problems
These issues are alarming, especially since the phones were only released on August 22. While some bugs are to be expected with any new device, the frequency and severity of these problems suggest that Google might need to rethink its approach. Google has been in the smartphone market for nearly a decade, so these issues shouldn’t be so common at this stage in their development process.
Tough Love Needed for Google’s Flagship
Google has been making its smartphone chips for four years now and should be focusing on perfecting the core user experience rather than just introducing new features. The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s wireless charging issues and camera problems are particularly concerning. These are essential features that users expect to work flawlessly.
While software updates might fix some of these problems, it raises the question of whether Google’s quality assurance team is doing enough before these devices hit the market. With only two models released so far, it’s worrisome to think about the potential issues that could arise with the upcoming Pixel 9 Pro Fold, a foldable phone with even more complexity.
Design Challenges Highlighted in Teardown
Recent teardowns of the Pixel 9 Pro XL reveal that the battery is particularly difficult to remove due to strong adhesive, which wasn’t the case in previous models. The teardown also showed that Google has switched to a new design language, using less common screws and hidden components that make the device harder to repair.
These design changes, while potentially beneficial for some aspects of the phone, highlight the need for further optimization. The complexity of the internal design makes repairs challenging, even for experienced technicians.
Google Meet gets a fresh new look with Material 3 design

Google Meet is getting a big update to its look, thanks to the new Material 3 design. This change brings a cleaner and more modern style to the video calling app, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.
With Material 3, Google Meet now has rounder buttons, softer colors, and better spacing between elements. The main controls, like the microphone, camera, and end call buttons, are now larger and easier to tap. The icons and text are also clearer, which helps users find what they need quickly during a call.
Another improvement is the new “expressive” color system. This feature lets the app’s colors match your device’s wallpaper or theme, giving each user a unique and personalized experience. The changes also make Google Meet more accessible, as the new design is easier to read and use for everyone, including people with vision difficulties.
These updates are rolling out to both web and mobile versions of Google Meet. Google says the new look will help people feel more comfortable and focused during their meetings. Overall, the Material 3 update makes Google Meet not only look better but also work better for all its users.
Android
Easy ways to change Android Auto’s look with light and dark themes

Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google Drive and Files by Google get fresh updates for easier use

Google is rolling out some helpful updates to two of its popular apps: Google Drive and Files by Google. These changes are designed to make managing your files and watching videos much smoother.
First, Google Drive is getting a new video player. Now, when you upload a video to Drive and open it, you’ll notice a fresh look that matches Google’s latest design style. The controls, like play and pause, are easier to use and look cleaner. This update makes it simpler to watch videos directly in Drive without needing to download them first.
Meanwhile, the Files by Google app is also getting a makeover. The app is adopting Google’s Material 3 design, which means it looks brighter and more modern. The buttons and menus are easier to see and use, making it simpler to find, move, and organize your files. There are also new color options and improved icons, so everything feels more user-friendly.
Both updates show Google’s commitment to making its apps more helpful and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re watching videos in Drive or sorting files on your phone, these changes aim to save you time and make things less complicated. If you use these apps, keep an eye out for these new features—they should arrive soon!
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