The iPhone 17 Pro Max and the Google Pixel 9 Pro both feature advanced triple-camera setups, but there are several potential advantages of the iPhone 17 Pro Max over the Pixel 9 Pro:
1. Camera Sensor Upgrades: The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature a custom 48MP main camera sensor with a larger size (1/1.14") compared to previous models, potentially improving light gathering and background separation. It may also include a stacked design, 14-bit analog-to-digital conversion for lossless image quality, and Digital Gain Control for better dynamic range and reduced noise[1][7]. In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro has a 50MP primary sensor, but it does not have these specific enhancements.
2. Telephoto Lens Upgrade: The iPhone 17 Pro Max is rumored to upgrade its telephoto lens to 48MP, matching the resolution of the main and ultra-wide lenses, which could enhance zoom capabilities[7][10]. The Pixel 9 Pro already has a 48MP telephoto lens, so this would be a catch-up feature for the iPhone.
3. Variable Aperture: There are rumors that the iPhone 17 Pro Max might include a variable aperture lens, which could offer more control over depth of field and exposure, though details on user control are unclear[7]. The Pixel 9 Pro does not have this feature.
4. Design and Build: The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature significant design changes, including a new horizontal camera layout and possibly a two-tone back panel, which could appeal to users looking for a fresh aesthetic[4]. Additionally, the iPhone uses a titanium frame for enhanced durability, whereas the Pixel 9 Pro uses an aluminum frame[3].
5. Video Recording: iPhones are generally praised for their video recording capabilities, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max is likely to continue this trend with improved stabilization and possibly new features like enhanced slow-motion or time-lapse modes[3]. While the Pixel 9 Pro excels in still photography, the iPhone might offer superior video performance.
6. Front Camera Upgrade: The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to have a 24MP front camera, doubling the resolution of the iPhone 16 Pro's selfie camera[10]. The Pixel 9 Pro has a 42MP selfie camera, but the iPhone's upgrade could still offer improved selfie quality.
Overall, while the Pixel 9 Pro excels in still photography, the iPhone 17 Pro Max may offer advantages in terms of camera sensor technology, design, and video capabilities. However, these are speculative advantages based on rumors and may not reflect the final product.
Citations:
[1] https://www.phonearena.com/iphone-17-pro-max-release-date-price-features-news
[2] https://www.dxomark.com/google-pixel-9-pro-xl-camera-test/
[3] https://www.androidpolice.com/google-pixel-9-pro-xl-vs-apple-iphone-16-pro-max/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcVcubfm2Jo
[5] https://amateurphotographer.com/review/google-pixel-9-pro-review/
[6] https://www.phonearena.com/phones/compare/Google-Pixel-9-Pro-XL,Apple-iPhone-17-Pro-Max/phones/12379,12496
[7] https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphones/iphone-17-pro-max-all-the-rumors-so-far
[8] https://blog.google/products/pixel/google-pixel-9-ai-camera-features/
[9] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/iphone-16-pro-vs-google-pixel-9-pro-camera-comparison/
[10] https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphone-17-pro-vs-iphone-16-pro-5-biggest-expected-upgrades
[11] https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/google-pixel-phones/google-pixel-9-vs-pixel-9-pro