Google Pixel 9 release date in Australia + all the juicy rumours

The highly anticipated launch of Google's Pixel 9 phones is just hours away. But the big question is: Will the Pixel 9 Pro Fold finally debut in Australia?

Google's won over Android users with past launches thanks to some fab camera setups, cutting-edge use of AI, great design and long-lasting software updates.

Now, we're all sitting at the edge of our seats for its upcoming slew of tech releases which may be some of the worst-kept secrets on the planet based on multiple leaks and Google's own teasers.

But we love a good rumour mill so yay?

Okay, enough faffing about, let's give you what you've really come here for.

When is the Pixel 9 range launching in Australia?

The clock's ticking down with Google set to reveal its latest Pixel 9 range on Wednesday, August 14 at 3am AEST. Pre-orders should start the same day from the major telcos (Telstra, Optus and Vodafone) and other retailers like JB Hi-Fi and Officeworks.

So you can either set your alarms or pull an all-nighter if you're keen to watch the Made By Google event in real-time.

Google will live-stream the launch on its YouTube channel.

We'll definitely be awake to write up all the glorious details for you to read through with your morning coffee or cup of tea.

And yep, you're not wrong to think this isn't usually the timeline for Google. Normally we'd see the new Pixel phones launch in October but it seems the tech giant is shaking things up this year.

How many Pixel 9 phones are we expecting Google to launch?

Based on the rumours flying around, it's safe to say we'll see Google showcase 4 Pixel 9 devices.

The usual suspects are the Pixel 9 base model and the Pixel 9 Pro.

However, we may also see a larger Pixel 9 Pro XL joining the ranks alongside the Pixel 9 Pro Fold if you go by the teaser from Google (see below). The main question is, will the foldable actually make its way to Australia, unlike the first iteration? We really, really hope so!

A foldable phone built for the Gemini era.
Out with the old. In with the Fold.

Learn more and sign up for #MadeByGoogle updates: https://t.co/7zTWktAvWk pic.twitter.com/UZDudLiUWB

— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) July 18, 2024

How much will the Google Pixel 9 cost?

Great question. We don't really know at this point but according to Yahoo Finance, leaked details from Europe suggest the phones may come with a price bump of €100 to €140 for the Pixel 9 base model.

The Pixel 9 Pro may see a €30 to €40 bump in the 256GB and 512GB base models.

What this means for Australia and the other two phones in the lineup is to be confirmed.

Here's a look at Pixel 8 pricing to give you an idea of roughly the prices we can expect and you can add on $100-$150 for good measure, lol.

• $1,199 for the 128GB Pixel 8
• $1,299 for the 256GB Pixel 8
• $1,699 for the 128GB Pixel 8 Pro
• $1,799 for the 256GB Pixel 8 Pro

What upgrades are we going to see from Google this year?

Besides the change in the lineup itself, here are a few things we've heard about through the grapevine.

AI, new chip and more RAM

We can guarantee you that without a doubt we'll see lots of AI chatter. It's Google's jam plus all the major phone launches this year - Samsung Galaxy S24 series and the Z Flip and Z Fold - have honed in on the 'power of AI'.

It's also been heavily reported that Apple will bring its own iteration of AI features to the playing field.

Reports from 91Mobiles claim we'll see a 'game-changing' Tensor G4 chipset and up to 16GB of RAM in the Pro models to unleash the power of Gemini AI.

You can expect new machine-learning tricks such as Pixel Screenshots to help "you save info that you want to remember later – like events, places and more".

Design, colours and cameras

• According to a report from 91Mobiles, we can expect a refined camera island, polished or glossy sides, and a soft matte back panel.
• With the rumours of a mysterious Pixel 9 Pro XL, it's speculated that this might be the standard size, while the Pixel 9 Pro could be slightly smaller at 6.3 inches.
• Leaked renders also reveal a third rear camera on the Pixel 9 Pro, absent from last year's model.
• Marketing materials shared with Android Authority show the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL will come equipped with 50MP autofocus selfie cameras.
• According to Android Authority, the Pro models will be available in four colours: Hazel (light grey), Obsidian (dark grey/black), Porcelain (white/cream), and Rose (light pink).
• Tom's Guide suggests the base Pixel 9 model will come in Jade, Obsidian, Peony, and Porcelain, while the foldable might feature Obsidian and Porcelain/Gold.

That's all we know for now, but the much-anticipated event is just around the corner, so we won't have to speculate for much longer.

Check back with Finder next Wednesday, 14 August, for all the latest updates from the launch.