Google's latest flagship smartphone, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, is experiencing some teething problems shortly after launch. Early adopters are reporting issues with wireless charging functionality and camera performance, casting a shadow over what was meant to be a triumphant release for the tech giant.
Wireless Charging Woes
Multiple users have taken to Reddit and Google's support forums to voice their frustrations with the Pixel 9 Pro XL's wireless charging capabilities. The problem appears to manifest as an intermittent charging cycle, where the device begins to charge but abruptly stops after a few seconds. This issue seems to affect both first-party and third-party wireless chargers, including Google's own Pixel Stand.
One user described the problem, stating, It starts charging, then stops, then starts, then stops, then starts, etc. The inconsistency in charging is particularly concerning for a premium device that touts wireless charging as a key feature.
Google has acknowledged the issue, describing it as a known bug. The company has stated that its engineering team is working on a fix, though no specific timeline has been provided. In the interim, Google has directed affected users to an article on its support website addressing slow wireless charging, suggesting potential workarounds.
Camera Quirks
Adding to the Pixel 9 Pro XL's woes, some users have reported an unusual camera issue. Specifically, there have been instances of a strange tilt or lean occurring while recording video using the device's 5x telephoto lens. One user shared a video clip demonstrating the problem, showing the view suddenly turning hard to the right during recording.
While this issue appears to be less widespread than the wireless charging problem, it's nonetheless concerning for a device series that has built its reputation largely on its camera capabilities.
Google's Response
Google has been relatively quick to acknowledge these issues, particularly the wireless charging problem. However, the company has not provided detailed explanations for either the charging or camera issues, nor has it announced specific timelines for resolving them.
For now, Google is advising users experiencing wireless charging problems to explore troubleshooting steps related to overheating, potential device damage, or excessive battery drain from apps. If these steps prove ineffective, users are encouraged to contact Google's Pixel support team directly.
Looking Forward
While these issues are certainly frustrating for early adopters, it's worth noting that post-launch bugs are not uncommon in the smartphone industry. The true test will be how quickly and effectively Google addresses these problems.
As the situation develops, potential Pixel 9 Pro XL buyers may want to keep an eye on Google's official communications and user forums for updates. Despite these early hiccups, the Pixel 9 series still holds promise as a flagship contender in the competitive smartphone market.
