The Google Pixel 9 Pro, while positioned as a flagship Android device, appears to be missing key features that could enhance user experience, according to recent analyses. Let's dive into what's notably absent and how it affects users.
MagSafe Support: The Magnetic Elephant in the Room
Despite the growing popularity of magnetic accessories and charging solutions, Google has made a controversial decision to skip Qi2 wireless charging support on the Pixel 9 Pro. The company's stance that Qi2 offers no tangible benefits has left many users seeking alternative solutions:
- Third-party cases with magnetic rings ($20-25 range) offer a workaround
- These cases enable compatibility with MagSafe accessories like:
- PopSockets
- Magnetic wallets
- Phone stands
- Storage drives
However, there's a significant drawback: These third-party magnetic cases can interfere with wireless charging performance, causing intermittent connections and slower charging speeds.
Display Capabilities: A Missed Opportunity
The Pixel 9 Pro features Google's Super Actua LTPO OLED display, which is capable of:
- Dynamic refresh rate down to 1Hz
- Advanced power management
- Superior always-on display potential
Yet, Google hasn't implemented always-on display wallpapers, a feature already available on competitors like:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 series
- iPhone Pro models
This limitation isn't hardware-related - the Super Actua display has the technical capabilities to support this feature with minimal battery impact.
Looking Forward
The good news is that these limitations could potentially be addressed:
- Qi2 support might come to future Pixel models
- Always-on display wallpaper functionality could be added via a Feature Drop update
- Android 16 might bring native support for enhanced always-on display features
For now, Pixel 9 Pro users must either accept these limitations or seek third-party solutions for magnetic accessory compatibility. The device's excellent hardware and mature software make it a strong contender in the flagship space, but these missing features highlight areas where Google could improve the user experience.
Note: While workarounds exist, they may impact device functionality or void warranty coverage. Users should carefully consider their options before modifying their devices.
