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 to invite big fans to early Pixel 10 event in June

Google is getting ready to show off its brand-new Pixel 10 smartphone, and it wants its most loyal fans to be part of the excitement. The company is planning a special event for June, before the official launch. This event is especially for “superfans”—people who really love Pixel phones and always want to try the latest tech.
At this event, Google will give these fans a close look at the Pixel 10. They might get to see new features, learn about how the phone works, and even share their thoughts with Google. This is a chance for Google to hear from fans before the phone comes out for everyone. Superfans are often the first to know about new updates and features, and Google values their feedback.
By inviting superfans early, Google hopes to make the Pixel 10 launch even better. The company wants to learn what fans like and what could be improved. This way, they can make small changes before the big release. The event is a sign that Google cares about its users and wants them to feel special.
In short, if you are a big Pixel fan, keep an eye out for an invitation to this special June event. You could be one of the first to see the Pixel 10 up close and help shape its future!
Gemini app gets new ai video maker and live camera features and Pixel Weather maps update

Google’s Gemini app is getting exciting new updates. One big change is that you can now use a new AI tool called Veo 3. This tool helps you make videos just by typing what you want. It’s part of Gemini Ultra, which is a smarter version of the AI. With Veo 3, you can create short videos easily, even if you don’t know how to edit videos.
Another new feature is called Gemini Live with Camera. Now, you can use your phone’s camera to show things to Gemini, and it will help you right away. For example, if you point your camera at a plant, Gemini can tell you what kind it is. This works on your phone’s screen, and it’s made to be easy for anyone to use.
Google is also making the weather app on Pixel phones better. Now, you can see weather maps more clearly. The app will show you detailed maps with rain, clouds, and more. This helps you plan your day better by knowing what the weather will be like.
All these updates make using Google’s apps more fun and helpful. They show how Google is always working to make things easier and smarter for everyone.
Google Wallet now fixes pin problem on wear os smartwatches

Google has fixed an issue with Google Wallet on Wear OS smartwatches that was making it hard for users to use their PIN code. Before this fix, some users found that when they tried to use Google Wallet to pay with their watch, they were not able to enter their PIN. This made it difficult or even impossible to use the payment feature.
The problem seemed to happen mostly after users updated their smartwatch software or after restarting their device. Some people also noticed it when they locked their watch and then tried to unlock it to make a payment. The issue was frustrating because users could not complete transactions without the correct PIN.
Google has now released an update for Google Wallet on Wear OS. This update solves the problem, so users can once again enter their PIN and use their watch to pay for things. The company did not say if this fix would come as a separate update or as part of a bigger system update. But users should check for updates on their smartwatch to make sure they have the latest version of Google Wallet.
This is good news for people who use their smartwatches to pay for things every day. Now, they can use their watch to pay without worrying about PIN problems. The update should make using Google Wallet on Wear OS watches easier and more reliable. If you are still having trouble, make sure your watch is updated and try restarting it.
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