If you don’t mind using Meta services, you may have some luck with big discounts. I’ve seen BNIB Pixel 9’s for as low as $475 on Facebook Marketplace, though most of them are $500-$550. I’ve purchased my last two Pixels through Marketplace and haven’t encountered any issues.

That being said, I like my Pixel 8 Pro and the performance has been great, so I’m not sure the price difference for a brand new Pixel 9 direct from a retailer as opposed to a Pixel 8 is worth it unless you really like the squared off design of the 9.

Personally, I’d just keep cooking with it. I wish someone had told me that when I was getting started with carbon steel. In my experience, keeping the seasoning visually even across the pan is much harder on carbon steel than cast iron. I was restarting constantly because it would look splotchy, but eventually gave up on that. As long as it performs fine and there’s no rust, there’s nothing to worry about. Eventually it’ll all even out.