Unveiling the Google Pixel 9 Ecosystem: A Complete Review

Review: How mature is the Google Pixel 9 ecosystem? - Techzine

Apple and Samsung have long established their respective ecosystems of phones, earbuds, and smartwatches. Now Google has refreshed its own trio of devices, and Techzine spent several months testing them. How compelling is life in the complete Pixel universe?

For this review, we tested all Google Pixel 9 variants, along with the Pixel Watch 3 (41mm) and Pixel Buds Pro 2. We’ll examine each device individually before considering whether the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. The WiFi version of the Watch 3 typically retails for €390, though it can be found for less. The Buds Pro 2 earbuds are available for just over €200. The Pixel phones show significant price variation: while the Pixel 9 costs around €800 online, the 9 Pro Fold commands €1,899. We recently reviewed the latter: Tip: Review: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold – chasing its competitors The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL sit between these price points at €1,099 (Pro, 128GB) and €1,199 (Pro XL, 128GB) respectively. This pricing strategy is clear: Google aims to compete in both the premium and upper mid-range segments. Not much has changed in this regard – while the original Pixel 7 (the first Pixel available in most of Europe) launched at €649, that would be close to €750 in 2024 terms.

Flexibility in the Pixel Ecosystem

The Pixel ecosystem offers considerable flexibility, from the basic Pixel 9 to the foldable 9 Pro Fold, complemented by the Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Watch 3. Importantly, none of these devices are strictly dependent on each other. Any Android phone works well with Pixel accessories, and Pixel phones are compatible with existing peripherals. Unlike Apple’s walled garden approach, Android’s open nature prevents such restrictions.

Intuitive Integrations and Inconsistencies

Google enhances the Pixel ecosystem through intuitive integrations. Earbuds and smartwatch battery levels appear in Pixel widgets, while an unlocked watch enables instant phone access. These basic interactions are smooth and seamless. However, dig a little deeper, and some inconsistencies emerge.

AI and Services Integration

Ask Google what unifies their Pixel line, and they’ll likely point to AI – specifically, Gemini. The real unifying factor, besides health tracking, is Google’s service suite. Maps works surprisingly well in its minimal form on the Pixel Watch 3, especially when addresses are first entered on the phone. YouTube, Google Calendar, and the weather app also demonstrate successful smartwatch-smartphone integration. This is where the ecosystem truly shines, rather than through AI features.

The Pixel ecosystem offers considerable flexibility, from the basic Pixel 9 to the foldable 9 Pro Fold, complemented by the Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Watch 3. Importantly, none of these devices are strictly dependent on each other. Any Android phone works well with Pixel accessories, and Pixel phones are compatible with existing peripherals. Unlike Apple’s walled garden approach, Android’s open nature prevents such restrictions.

Conclusion

Unless deeply invested in Apple’s ecosystem, transitioning to a Pixel smartphone, smartwatch, or earbuds is painless. Apart from the Pixel Watch 3’s battery life, switchers face no significant hurdles. The Google Pixel line offers extensive choice, second only to Samsung in its range of phones and accessories. However, each device should stand on its own merits, and largely does. Business users won’t find the same compelling reasons to go “all Google” as they might with Apple.

This seems intentional rather than an oversight. For those seeking a single Android vendor, Samsung remains the obvious choice, offering better smartwatch battery life, more earbud options, and a wider phone selection. Google’s Pixel line provides a viable alternative in each category, but not necessarily as a complete ecosystem.

Tags: Google, Google Pixel 9, Google Pixel 9 Pro, Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, Google Pixel Watch 3