Leaked Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro renders show one distinct design change

Google Pixel 8a in aloe green showing
It could be time to say goodbye to the rectangular Pixel camera bar (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

More claimed renders of the Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro have popped up on X, pretty much cementing the idea that the next Google-designed flagship phones will look similar to their predecessors. 

Posted by fairly reliable tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore, the Pixel 9 render shows what's purported to be that phone in a pastel pink color, complete with a pill-shaped camera bar; the latter would mark a departure from the sharper rectangular camera bar, though the Pixel design DNA is still apparent. 

It’s much the same deal with the Pixel 9 Pro render, which shows what's claimed to be that handset in a creamy white color, and features three cameras, also in a pill-shaped bar. Going by previous Pixel Pro phones, this camera array would likely comprise a main sensor, ultra-wide, and a telephoto camera. 

Aside from that, the renders don’t give much away, as all that’s shown are the backs of the phones. But there have been plenty of rumors and tips to give us an idea of what to expect from the next pair of Google phones.

In short, the main upgrades are likely to be a new Tensor chip to power snappy AI tools and responses to queries; improved cameras – though more on the software side than with new sensors; and the potential for titanium to be adopted into the design in order to make the phones stronger and lighter, for the Pixel 9 Pro if not for the standard Pixel 9. Flatter sides for the phones have also been tipped, but we’re not so sure about that one, as such a design is very iPhone-like and tends not to be adopted by the best Android phones.

Overall, it looks like Google will be leaning more on the software and AI tools to deliver the upgrades in its next Pixel phones, rather than making big changes on the hardware side. That said, the search giant could still surprise us. A Pixel-themed showcase is set for August 13, so we can expect to see the new phones then, potentially alongside a second-generation Pixel Fold.

You might also like

TOPICS
Managing Editor, Mobile Computing

Roland Moore-Colyer is Managing Editor at TechRadar with a focus on phones and tablets, but a general interest in all things tech, especially those with a good story behind them. He can also be found writing about games, computers, and cars when the occasion arrives, and supports with the day-to-day running of TechRadar. When not at his desk Roland can be found wandering around London, often with a look of curiosity on his face and a nose for food markets. 

Read more
Google Pixel 8a in aloe green showing
Google Pixel 9a leak suggests it’ll fix a design quirk of its predecessor
Google Pixel 9 in Wintergreen showing back camera bar
The Google Pixel 10 could get a big camera boost if this new leak is legit
Google Pixel 8a
Biggest Google Pixel 9a leak so far reveals colors and seems to confirm the death of the camera bar
Google Pixel 8a in aloe green showing
New Google Pixel 9a leaks tease color options, and satellite connectivity to take on the iPhone 16e
Google Pixel 8a
Latest leaked Google Pixel 9a images hint at new purple color and the tiniest of camera bumps
Google Pixel 8a in aloe green showing
'Official' Google Pixel 9a cases have leaked, showing off the four likely phone colors
Latest in Google Pixel Phones
Google Pixel 9 in green Wintergreen color showing AI features on screen
Multiple hands-on Google Pixel 9a videos have emerged, days ahead of the likely launch
Google Pixel 8a in aloe green showing
Google Pixel 9a benchmark link teases the performance of the upcoming mid-ranger
Google Pixel 9 in Wintergreen showing back camera bar
The Google Pixel 10 could get a big camera boost if this new leak is legit
Google Pixel 9 on green grey background with price cut text overlay
Want to get a half-price unlimited plan and a Google Pixel 9 for just $400? Check out Mint Mobile this week
Google Pixel 8 review Pixel 8 Pro cameras
Is your Google Pixel 9 screen flickering or are the haptics a lot more intense? You aren't alone, and thankfully there's a fix
Google Pixel 9
There's something strange going on with Google Pixel phone vibrations after the latest update
Latest in News
European Union technical background
EU tech companies push for digital sovereignty, reducing reliance on US and others
Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic
Knights of the Old Republic remake developer Saber Interactive states all its projects are 'still in development'
Circular smart ring
Circular's new smart ring is getting blood pressure and blood glucose monitoring before the Apple Watch
Gemini on a mobile phone.
Worryingly, Google Gemini’s new AI image generation features can be used to remove watermarks from images and I'm concerned
iPad mini 2021
Huawei might have beaten Apple to the folding phone finish line by creating a foldable 'iPad mini'
Google Pixel 9 in green Wintergreen color showing AI features on screen
Multiple hands-on Google Pixel 9a videos have emerged, days ahead of the likely launch