Following the recent leaks of the upcoming Pixel 9 series, many users have expressed their desire for a Mini device from Google. However, it seems that the era of small Android phones is coming to an end. The rise of larger smartphones over the past decade has made it clear that the market overwhelmingly prefers bigger devices.
One of the last flagship-tier Android phones with a screen size under 6 inches, the Asus Zenfone 11, has taken a step towards larger displays with its Ultra model. Similarly, even the Pixel Fold, known for its small outer display, is moving away from compact designs. The demand for larger screens seems to be the driving force in the smartphone industry.
While some users continue to ask for a Mini option in Google’s lineup, it is unlikely that such a device will materialize. The upcoming Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro are expected to feature displays slightly larger than the previous Pixel 8, which was praised for its compact size. These new models are likely to strike a balance between small and large smartphones, catering to the majority of users’ preferences.
In other news, Google has expanded its Circle to Search feature to a range of devices, including the Galaxy S24, Pixel 8, and Pixel 7. This AI-powered search tool will soon be available on the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet, with inline translations being introduced. Samsung’s One UI 6.1 update is also rolling out to select Galaxy devices, bringing various AI features and enhancements on top of Android 14.
As the smartphone market continues to evolve, it seems that compact devices may no longer have a place in the industry. For those longing for a Pixel Mini, the upcoming Pixel 9 series may offer a satisfactory compromise between size and functionality, catering to the needs of the majority of users.
