What People Really Think About the Glossy Side Rails of the Pixel 9 Pro XL

What People Really Think About the Glossy Side Rails of the Pixel 9 Pro XL

The tech world is buzzing once again. This time, it’s about Google’s decision to use glossy side rails in their upcoming Pixel 9 Pro XL smartphone. Although some users love the sleek look, a significant number of them aren’t so thrilled.

Why Glossy Rails?

For those who haven’t been keeping track, Google recently revealed that its new Pixel 9 Pro, and most likely the XL version, will feature glossy side rails. Here’s the scoop: The glossy finish is probably due to the use of stainless steel. This metal, while durable and rust-resistant, tends to get that mirror-like shine when polished.

https://twitter.com/madebygoogle/status/1813967957590241437

Every coin has two sides. Stainless steel can look absolutely gorgeous, but it also has its drawbacks. Fingerprints, smudges, and scratches can easily become an issue. It’s practically a fingerprint magnet, which doesn’t go unnoticed by many users.

The Public’s Response

Since the news broke, we’ve been eager to find out what people think. We conducted a survey, asking our readers about their opinions on the glossy rails. The response was quite revealing:

• 45% of respondents said they hated the shiny side rails.
• 36% were indifferent, noting that they’d use a case anyway.
• Only 17% expressed love for the glossy finish.

Voicing Concerns

Among the comments, reader Stadi was particularly vocal. They stated, “I hate all things glossy; it looks extremely cheap.” Another reader, Mckillio, made a good point about using a case, saying that whether the rails are glossy or not, most people will use a case anyway.

https://twitter.com/madebygoogle/status/1814044122661204470

The Case for Cases

You can’t ignore the fact that nearly everyone uses a phone case these days. Reader Berto humorously exaggerated, “nobody goes caseless these days.” The necessity of a case, whether to protect against drops or just to avoid fingerprints, has indeed become a part of modern smartphone ownership.

A Split Decision

However, not everyone was against the glossy finish. Matthew, a reader, made a case for better grip, saying that glossy rails actually help. That’s up for debate, as matte finishes usually provide more texture and, therefore, more grip. Either way, people have their preferences.

Final Thoughts

The glossy side rails on the Pixel 9 Pro XL are a divisive feature. Some love the stylish look, while others find it impractical and cheap-looking. Whether these rails impact your decision to purchase the phone may depend on whether you plan to use a case or prefer a matte finish.

As we await the official release, one thing is clear: Google has sparked a lot of discussions with this design choice. What are your thoughts on glossy side rails? Leave your comments below!