Google Pixel 9 series limitations you should know

The Pixel 9 series is here, bringing some cool features and fresh designs that have many Android enthusiasts buzzing. But even the newest, shiniest gadgets have their quirks, and the Pixel 9 devices are no exception. While the new series certainly packs a punch, a few bumps in the road might make potential buyers pause. Whether you’re eyeing the Pixel 9, the Pro, or even the fancy Fold, here are some limitations you might want to know about before taking the plunge.

If you’re planning to go for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, here’s a heads-up: it won’t play nice with the Pixel Stand. Yep, you read that right. The Fold won’t charge on the latest Pixel Stand, but it does get along with other wireless chargers. The catch? Google says you might have to fiddle with the phone’s position to get it to juice up. The charging coil in the Fold isn’t centered like in previous Pixels, which means wireless charging can be a bit of a balancing act. So, before you buy that charger, make sure it’s compatible — or get ready for some trial and error.

The Pixel 9 series comes packed with nifty AI features that are supposed to make life easier. But, for the tech-savvy folks who love tinkering with their devices, there’s a catch. Users have found that unlocking the bootloader — something many Android enthusiasts do — comes with some limitations into the smooth operation of features like Pixel Screenshots, Pixel Studio, Call Notes, and even those smart AI weather reports. The only reliable fix so far? Unroot and lock the bootloader again. So, if you like your phone’s AI magic, it might be best to keep things locked up tight.

The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro support 27W fast charging while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold gets 21W fast charging. On the other hand, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is all about speed. It promises to power up faster this year, hitting that sweet spot of 37W fast charging. But here’s the twist: it might need specific chargers to reach that speed. The phone uses a higher voltage for its speedy charging, which means not all high-wattage chargers will do the trick. Your best bet? Stick with Google’s official 45W charger to ensure you’re getting the fastest charge possible. Otherwise, you might find your charging speeds not living up to expectations.

One of the standout features in the Pixel 9 series is Zoom Enhance, a tool that significantly improves zoomed-in photos, bringing out the details like never before. But don’t get too excited if you’re eyeing the standard Pixel 9. This feature is reserved for the Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. So, if you’re a photography buff looking to get the most out of your zoom, you might need to spring for one of the Pro models. The standard Pixel 9 just won’t cut it if Zoom Enhance is on your wishlist.

Google’s new Pixel Screenshots app is a handy tool that lets you search through your screenshots by extracting info from them. It’s a cool feature, sure, but there’s a bit of a throttle on it — it can only process about 15 screenshots a day automatically. This cap might feel a bit limiting if you’re someone who snaps a lot of screenshots. Comparatively, Microsoft’s Recall feature processes far more, far more frequently. So, while Pixel Screenshots is helpful, power users might find it a bit too restrictive.

The Pixel 9 series claims to support Qi2 wireless charging, but there’s a big catch. Although Google says both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro work with Qi2 chargers, they don’t come with the magnets that make Qi2’s magnetic alignment so satisfying. This means while you can use a Qi2 charger, you won’t get that snap-on magnetic attachment — unless you slap on a special case with magnets. So, while you can enjoy wireless charging, it’s not going to have that click-and-go feel that some might be hoping for.

Unlike previous Pixel phones, the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL cannot be used for Battery Share (reverse wireless charging) while charging the phones with a wire. This means you can’t top off another device with your Pixel 9 if it’s plugged in. Google hasn’t explained the reason for the change, but it’s speculated it might be to improve battery health. While Battery Share is still available on the Pixel 9, 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL, it’s completely disabled on the new foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This was the same case with the Pixel Fold, too.

The Pixel 9 series is exciting, no doubt about it. But just like every other gadget out there, it comes with its own set of limitations. Whether it’s the charging quirks, AI feature hiccups, the lack of Zoom Enhance on the standard model, or wireless charging that’s not quite magnetic, there’s a bit of give-and-take with these new kids on the block. None of these, however, should be a dealbreaker. Still, being aware of what you’re getting into is the best way to enjoy any new tech to the fullest.

NOTE: This article has been updated to include Pixel 9 Battery Share changes.