Google app already reveals Pixel 9 animation and configuration files

What do you want to know

• A beta version of the Google app includes code and files related to the unreleased Google Pixel 9 series.
• One file depicts the Pixel 9’s setup animation, which is new but doesn’t reveal much about the new phones.
• Another is related to a digital assistant, although it notably doesn’t reference the rumor that the “Pixie” assistant could debut alongside the Pixel 9 series.

There are a handful of leaks about the Google Pixel 9, and even more regarding the Pixel 8a which could launch as soon as next month. However, it’s rare that we get something straight from the source. While it’s not much, a new Google app beta reveals that the company is actively preparing the Pixel 9 series. There are still a lot of unknowns around the smartphone lineup, but this latest leak confirms , at the very least, the naming scheme of the Pixel 9.

Android Code Detective AssembleDebug on X noticed some beta files 15.14.34.29.arm64 from the Google app that are directly related to the Pixel 9. These files are connected to the Google Assistant setup process, which comes from the Google app. This explains why the beta version of the Google app is the software that contains references to the Pixel 9, rather than just a new Android version. The process of setting up the assistant on the Pixel 9 takes on added importance as it has already been reported that the smartphone could feature a new digital assistant ‘Pixie’.

There are two files included in the beta version of the Google app, by AssembleDebug, that are related to the Google Pixel 9:

• assistant_robin_suw_pixel9_fragment.xml
• assistant_robin_suw_pixel9.json

The tipster explains that the first file is probably the Google Assistant setup wizard for the Pixel 9 or directly the Assistant setup page. The second file is the setup animation, which features generic Google icons and design language. Aside from the file names, there is no indication that these assets are related to the Pixel 9. However, this is the first indirect reference to the existence of the Pixel 9 from Google, and it comes months before the planned launch of the range.

So far, there is also no reference to the rumored Pixie assistant. Pixie, which could be an internal codename, is said to be a more powerful version of Google Assistant leveraging device data and AI. Google appears to be moving away from Google Assistant altogether, removing features in recent months and forcing Gemini users to replace the Assistant on their phones. One theory is that Gemini isn’t what will replace Assistant once and for all, but another software feature will.

The Google Pixel 9 series is likely months away from an official launch, as Google usually unveils these phones in the fall. However, these references to the Pixel 9 in the beta versions of the Google app are just the beginning. Rumors and leaks regarding Google’s next generation of flagship phones will only intensify as the launch gets closer.