Nexus 9 review

Google returns to the fray with a new tablet, this time made by HTC. The Nexus 9 is a device with an 8.9-inch format, powerful resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, a 64-bit chip or the ability to incorporate 4G connectivity for browsing at very high speeds of up to 150 Mbps . However, for beyond specification this tablet represents the first contact with Android 5.0 Lollipop, the new version of this popular operating system. The Nexus 9, and can be purchased at the store of Google for a price of 390 euros. We tell you our impressions after testing.

 Android Lollipop

 It is not normal to start with the OS and apps in an analysis, but the Nexus 9 serves as a test for the new version Android 5.0 Lollipop, which should begin arriving in other models in the coming weeks. The first thing of note is that this interface is “nice” touch. Lollipop advocates a more visual design on many menus of equipment, such as connection setup or different applications. Overall it has given us the impression of a certain kind of approach to menus and colors used in the Apple universe, and a casual air.

 One of the features that weight has taken on this platform is Google voice assistant. If we have it on, just say anytime “OK, Google” and can perform a contextual search . The level of accuracy reached this tool is very high, to the point that it is very easy to navigate or open applications without lifting a finger. As a curiosity must also emphasize the quality of the microphone of this tablet (you must check if repeated in other models). And that can awaken the wizard from the other side of the room without raising his voice. Another function that we found very interesting is the possibility of Google Ok active even when the screen is off Nexus.

 Another new feature that we liked a lot is the design of the tool to switch between open applications. Now we can move between them in a similar open tabs in Chrome, but with more perspective way. We would also like to point out is the general use of the camera application, which takes some of the details we have seen development in Windows. For example, if you drag your finger from the left side of the screen to the center will see the available capture modes. Meanwhile, the photos are “saved” to the right of the screen, so to access them just drag your finger from this part of the screen and back to the camera is done by the opposite movement. It is very intuitive features that will control quickly.

 Finally, we would like to emphasize the inclusion of Fit app. This is a tool designed especially for use with Android devices or smart watches Wear as bracelets, and follow the path of other proposals such as Samsung Health. In this application we can enter the data of physical activity that we perform or collect data from these supported devices. This app has an attractive design and colorful. In short, the first impression of the new OS is very good. There have been no big changes, but has been enhanced user experience and has made a very nice setting with small features that make life easier.

 Means set of chambers

 The Nexus 9 includes a rear 8 megapixel camera with autofocus and LED flash. The picture quality is decent, but not up to the level of major releases in the market. Of course this is a device that is not specifically designed to carry photographs. This lens also offers the option to record video with 1080p quality. Moreover, in the front we have a target with a resolution of 1.6 megapixels for photos and video recording capability at 720p. Again, no wonder though you just met when creating selfies or use videoconferencing applications. Of course at this point yes it would have been appreciated HTC bet on a better camera.

 Power, memory and connections

 Inside the Google Nexus 9 is a 64-bit (as used in computers) dual core with a power of 2.3 GHz, with a RAM of 2 GB. This is a set with a remarkable performance that can run without problems the vast majority of applications and games from Android. Google sells this model configuration of 16GB and 32GB. We were able to test the 32GB version, which leaves a space of just over 25 GB to store our personal files and applications. One detail that should not be overlooked is the lack of a slot for expansion via micro SD, which can be a problem (especially if you choose the configuration of 16GB) cards. This problem can be solved through an online storage system like Dropbox or Google Drive.

 As for the connections of this model, one must distinguish between the WiFi version and the version that combines WiFi and 4G (in our case, we tested the WiFi only version). The Asian company has integrated MIMO system with the use of two internal antennas to improve signal reception and allow us to achieve higher discharge rates when we use it with a compatible router. Other interesting connections incorporating this device are NFC payments for conducting or tablet through Bluetooth 4.0, a protocol that has become increasingly important to connect the tablet smart watches or bracelets.

 Design, screen and multimedia

 In the field of design, the Nexus 9 uses a plastic body of one piece with the sides of metallic appearance. The touch white case (can also find this model in black) is quite nice, although you lose some of the glamor that gives the metal. Yes, the Nexus logo on the rear embossed gives a differential twist. The full dimensions of this model amounted to 228.25 x 153.68 x 7.95 mm and weighs 325 grams (the WiFi only version). This is a quite acceptable figures, although sometimes leave us feeling of size by topic in limbo between a team that can be grasped with one hand and one that requires use both. And the Google Nexus 9 uses an IPS panel with a size of 8.9 inches. We would like to highlight the excellent resolution of 2,048 x 1,536 pixels that leaves a remarkable level of detail for movies or videos in high quality. Yes, the panel brightness is acceptable but not to the level of other high-end models from the competition. The tablet has two front speakers BoomSound offering a good balance between power and audio quality. In addition, this placement will not lose power when we have the tablet resting on a surface.

 Autonomy, price and reviews

 The Nexus 9 uses 6,700 milliamp batteries that offer a time up to nine and a half hours of browsing over WiFi (and 8.5 hours of browsing on 4G networks). It figures in the middle of what is expected from these devices. Google has also added a new power saving mode that promises to increase that time to 90 minutes. He also liked to be included in the menu of the estimated battery time left for charging and the time that we have loaded the device for a full charge.

 As for the price of this model, the 16GB WiFi version stands at 390 euros. If you want more space by 32 GB, the price goes up to 480 euros. The most powerful 4G LTE version (not yet available) and 32GB will cost 560 euros. In short, this is a balanced model with good specifications gives us the experience of Android 5.0 pure Lollipop. If you’re an Android fan, this is an excellent proposal. Yes, there is a team that is leading a competitive price, and that may be one of his greatest handicaps as it is not far from teams like iPad Air or tablets Samsung frontline.

Nexus 9 review