The new ones Pixel the Google They continue to give us something to talk about. We met them a few weeks ago and we have already analyzed them in these parts: both the Pixel 9 and the Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel 9 Pro XL are the new Android reference. Good cameras, quality software as Google usually does, lots of artificial intelligence … and updates for seven years.
It’s possible that owners of one of these Pixels will need to replace components like the battery at some point in its useful life if they want to extend it as much as the system updates it will receive. While it’s best to do this at a tech service, iFixit has done a teardown that lets you see if what Google says is true: The Pixel 9 is twice as durable as the previous generation. Is that right? That’s what we’re going to see next.
Pixel 9 Pro XL Teardown Confirms Google. Even If It Gives It A Few Hits On The Other Side
Google has claimed that the Pixel 9 is twice as durable as the Pixel 8, and the company’s claim seems to be true. As we can see from these lines, the best mobile phone of the Pixel 9 family has been the target of the popular website iFixit. They have undertaken to disassemble it and discover its innards, and this is what they have done in an almost 8 minutes.
What’s new in the internal design of the Pixel 9 Pro XL is that it has a double entry layout. What does this mean? That its interior can be accessed in two ways: by removing the display glass or by removing the back for better access to the battery.
Additionally, according to Android Police, this also helps improve structural rigidity, ensuring that the mobile can better absorb and distribute the blows it suffers. The iFixit team explains to us how this “double” design improves its durability and confirms what Google has commented (you can see it at minute 5, 40 seconds).
This dual entry is not new in smartphone design: among the competition, Apple adopted it for its iPhone 14 of 2022. Of course, it did it with best execution– Pixel 9 Pro XL screen delaminates upon removal.
But that’s not the only problem they encountered during the dismantling: the battery removal process is deficient due to a blade mechanism. The iFixit team had to choose to forcibly remove it, which is familiar as it happened last year with the Pixel 8 Pro.
Google has improved the internal design of its flagship mobile, but there are still some areas that need improvement. They seem essential now that they will be updated for seven years.
The screws also pose an additional difficulty: There are many hidden, so it is advisable to know their location when we go to repair it. An improved aspect is the location of the USB-C port, which is now connected to the lower motherboard to make it easier to replace.
In short, even if Google’s statement is true, the most expensive mobile phone of the new family fails in the execution of its internal design, with serious obstacles that can make its repair difficult. Whoever wants to maintain it for many years must know its interior well and be careful in the process. Of course: we always recommend leaving it in the hands of professionals, you will avoid many headaches.
More information | iFixit
Cover image | Ivan Linares for Xataka
In Xataka Android | Google Pixel 9, analysis: For the best Android experience, you don’t need raw power or so much AI
