For now, upgrading to a Pixel 9 model would get you some notable and significant improvements, including the presence of Face Unlock for authentication (a enormous Improved quality of life, if you ask me!) along with a a lot A faster, more consistent fingerprint sensor as a backup option and some pretty significant improvements to the camera. And of course, you’d get access to all the other productivity-enhancing Pixel 9-specific goodies we mentioned in the first section of this story.
➜ The verdict, in summary: If you prefer, you can wait another year, but upgrading to the Pixel 9 now would be a substantial improvement for you, and the time is almost here when that decision will be highly recommended. If you're ready now, you'll be delighted with the change that the Pixel 9 brings. If not, you can hold off on the purchase for another year and opt for the Pixel 10 in 2025.
Comparison between Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 6a
Again, the Pixel 6a's situation is pretty similar to what we've described with other Pixel “a” models, although here we're looking at a two-year-old device in its final year of active OS update support.
In practical terms, the 6a's July 2025 OS update deadline means it'll likely receive the next Android 15 update this year and then hit the end of the road for any additional OS updates beyond that. Even with security updates still in the pipeline, it wouldn't be completely optimal or advisable to continue using it past that point.
Still, after Android 15, we likely won't see another major Android OS update until sometime later. next Fall, and by then, there will be a new range of Pixel products to choose from. So you could easily wait a little longer and then think about buying a new mid-range model or one of next year's Pixel 10 phones as a replacement.
Again, the Pixel 9 or Pixel 9 Pro would be a significant upgrade in every possible way, and you would definitely notice and appreciate the difference. But again, your current phone is still reasonably good, if a little dated.
➜ The verdict, in summary: The argument for upgrading from a Pixel 6a is a strong one, given how far things have come since that phone launched, but still, this is far from a must-upgrade scenario. And, as with the Pixel 8a, the real question is whether you even want to move to the higher-end Pixel route whenever do Whether you upgrade or stick with the less expensive mid-range “A” phones is a decision only you can make.
Google Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 5 or any previous Pixel model
This last decision on upgrading from the Pixel 9 is the easiest: If you're on the Pixel 5 or any Pixel model before that, you should seriously consider upgrading to the Pixel 9 or Pixel 9 Pro now.
These older Pixels are no longer actively supported with current OS updates or even security patches, and all the current features and added conveniences aside, that means they are no longer recommended for use when it comes to the ever-important areas of privacy, security, and optimal performance for your phone.
➜ The verdict, in summary: It's time for a new device, plain and simple, and the Pixel 9 models will be a enormousa quantum leap for you in every possible way. If you have an older Pixel “a” model, you might consider buying the Pixel 8a instead, if you want to spend a little less money. But with any older Pixel, the Pixel 9 or Pixel 9 Pro would be the best upgrade you could make right now, and you'd be sure to get the best price. delighted with the change (in addition to being protected as much as possible, in terms of being on the most current software possible and avoiding any liability related to privacy, security or performance).
Wait, what about the Pixel Fold?
Wearing The first generation Pixel Fold? The above advice doesn't really apply to you.
Foldable phones are a beast in their own right, and it's a bit of a comparison trying to pit them against a standard slab-style device right now.
If you're simply unhappy with your Fold experience and think you'd prefer to go back to a more standard phone form factor, you'll be happy to upgrade to the Pixel 9 model.
Otherwise, stay tuned for more information on the second-generation Pixel Fold, aka the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, soon. It's not scheduled to ship until sometime in September, and consequently, Google hasn't made test units available for evaluation yet.
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