I bought a Pixel 9 for Google's software, and now I'm watching Oppo run it better
Android Police 2026-06-25 12:15:12
Context: The author, Ben Khalesi, a tech journalist with a background in IT and AI, purchased a Google Pixel 9 expecting to utilize its software capabilities, only to find that certain AI features, such as Gemini Intelligence, are not available on their device due to hardware limitations. This has led to frustration and a sense of betrayal, as the author feels that Google's promise of a seven-year phone with software support is not being fulfilled in spirit. The issue highlights the disparity in features between different Pixel models and the company's approach to segmenting its product lineup.
Key Facts
- The author purchased a Google Pixel 9, which will receive Android 17 updates, but will not have access to certain AI features, such as Gemini Intelligence, due to hardware limitations, specifically the older version of Gemini Nano and 12GB of RAM requirement.
- Google's Pixel 9 and Pixel 8 series ship with an older version of Gemini Nano, which does not meet the requirements for Gemini Intelligence, whereas the Pixel 10 family, excluding the Pixel 10a, meets the requirements.
- The Oppo Find X8, a 2024 phone, is capable of running Gemini Nano v3, which means that users of this device can access Google's AI features that are not available on the author's Pixel 9.
- The AI features that are not available on older Pixel models, such as Gemini Intelligence, include tasks that run across multiple apps, and quality-of-life features like Gboard's Rambler and Create My Widget.
- Google has previously used hardware limitations as an excuse for not providing certain features on older devices, but has later changed its stance, such as with the case of Pixel Screenshots, which was initially exclusive to the Pixel 9 but later became available through the cloud.