Google Pixel 9 Pro XL camera pops off, raising concerns

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is the most premium model in Google’s latest smartphone lineup. There’s also the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, but foldable devices have their own category. Pixel 9 series buyers have already been able to enjoy all the new features and improvements for a few weeks. However, a Pixel 9 Pro XL owner had a difficult time due to a problem with the device’s rear camera bar.

There could be a problem with the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s camera bar

A Google Pixel 9 Pro XL user reported on Reddit that the phone’s rear camera bar just came off, for no apparent reason. According to the post, the device had not suffered any rough use or drops that could cause the problem. The user first noticed the issue when the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s camera glass became fogged up internally. After removing the protective case, the user noticed that there was a gap between the camera bar and the body of the phone. Then, a light tug was enough for the piece to fall.

Currently, there’s only one report about the problem, so it could be a case of defective unit. It is normal for there to be a small percentage of defective units in production batches of new tech products. However, it is still a frustrating situation for those who have to deal with it.

Pixel 9 Pro XL rear camera bar problem 1

Pixel 9 Pro XL rear camera bar problem 2

Google revamped the design of the camera module on the Pixel 9 series

Since the Pixel 6 series, Google has used a bar-shaped camera module design. The edges of the bar meet the sides of the device in a curve. However, this year, the company decided to change the design slightly. The Pixel 9 series retains the module placement and horizontal distribution of sensors, but the bar adopts an elongated pill shape. The new design implies that the edges of the module are no longer “fused” to the sides of the phone.

The new design could be the source of the problem, although there’s no confirmation on that yet. Now that the camera module doesn’t blend with the sides of the phone, Google needs to make sure it’s well integrated with the rear area in other ways. Remember, the Pixel 9 series boasts an IP68 rating, so the build must be solid.

Fortunately, the affected user was able to obtain a replacement unit through their warranty. However, their post expresses concern about the possibility of facing the problem again. Let’s hope that’s not the case.