Philips i9000 Review: Premium design, reliable performance

Philips has established itself as a leading name in the grooming industry in India, offering a variety of products from trimmers to hair dryers. The latest addition to their lineup is the i9000 electric shaver, which aims to deliver a comfortable and personalized shaving experience through AI technology. But does it truly meet these expectations? Upon unboxing the Philips i9000, users will find the shaver itself, a charging cable, and a high-quality travel case. The charging cable connects via USB-A to a proprietary pin, which some might view as a drawback, especially since USB-C has become the industry standard for many devices. Despite being constructed from polycarbonate, the shaver has a premium feel in hand. It features a central power button with a display below, and the shaving heads are located on top. Philips advertises that the i9000 provides a tailored shaving experience through its GroomTribe app. However, users may encounter challenges, as pairing the device with the Android app can be problematic, limiting the ability to fully test these smart features. On a positive note, the battery life is commendable. While the full 60-minute runtime was not tested, early usage indicates that it is fairly accurate. The i9000 utilizes a triple-action lift-and-cut system powered by dual steel precision blades, boasting an impressive cutting rate of 7–8 million motions per minute. It excels at handling short stubble, but those with longer beards may need to trim down before using the shaver. The operation is straightforward: just press the button, and it springs to life, seemingly adjusting to the contours of the face. New users might face a slight learning curve, but with a bit of practice, the device becomes more user-friendly. Priced at ₹17,999, the Philips i9000 electric shaver targets premium users looking for a grooming tool that balances performance with convenience. While it offers comfort and a sleek design, the connectivity issues with the app and the lack of USB-C charging suggest areas for enhancement.