Google launched an overhauled Weather app with the Pixel 9 series last year. By and large, it's been an upgrade from the older, browser-based weather interface, bringing a modernized look and more customizability. As of last week, though, the Weather app is missing one of its best features: the live weather map.

I wouldn't want to use stock Android in 2025, because even the lightest Android skins offer so much more to explore.

On the surface, the visual aesthetics of the interface and the core experience don’t differ much from either phone because both phones are running Android 15. But the newer Pixel 9a benefits greatly from all the new Google AI features it packs.

The map view was part of a major revamp for the Weather app on Pixels, a revamp that first appeared on the Google Pixel 9 series, before making its way to older devices. There's a lot of other information in the app, but the real time map is a big part of its appeal.

Google offered mouth-watering discounts on the Pixel 8 series in late 2024. I decided to embrace the "pure Android" experience and bought the Google Pixel 8. What was intended to be a refreshing update from the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has led to frustration.

The OnePlus Watch 3 beats out other Wear OS watches in one key way. Find out how I want to see the Pixel Watch 4 improve in response.

Earlier this month, Google launched Wear OS 5.1 for its wearables, marking the first update for devices like the Pixel Watch 3 since November. However, some users have reported experiencing issues with their watches after installing the update.

As of April 1, get the Google Pixel 9 Pro for $664.05 at Target, down from its usual price of $999. Ready to add a new smartphone to your tech arsenal? You have more options beyond an iPhone or the latest and greatest Samsung offering.