Google Unveils Pixel 9 Series, Pixel Watch 3, and New AI Features at Made by Google Event: A Comprehensive Guide

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At the latest 'Made by Google' Pixel Hardware Event, the focus was on providing consumers with options. During this yearly gathering, Google introduced a lineup of new Pixel gadgets. This year's lineup includes four fresh smartphones: the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the debut of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. In addition, the event saw the launch of the third iteration of the Pixel Watch and the second-generation Pixel Buds Pro. For the first time, the Pro version of the Pixel smartphone is available in two sizes, mirroring the choice now offered with Google's emerging smartwatch line.

The focus isn't solely on physical devices. A significant number of software updates were revealed, with many being driven by Google's advanced Gemini large language models. Traditionally held in October, Google opted for an earlier presentation this year, probably aiming to capitalize on the holiday season sooner. This adjustment also positions Google to capture attention before Apple's yearly event in September and the introduction of the iPhone 16.

Discover everything you need to know about Google's latest gadgets. Don't miss our in-depth analyses of the novel photography capabilities of the smartphones and the heart rate monitoring functions on the Pixel Watch.

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The Pixel 9 Collection

The Pixel 9 lineup is expanding. Now, you're not limited to picking between a compact Pixel and a larger "pro" model; the Pixel 9 Pro offers two sizes: 6.3 inches and 6.8 inches. Below, I've detailed several of the key features in the chart.

The design features of the latest iteration showcase subtle modifications by Google. The traditional camera bar has been replaced with a more extended and pill-like contour for the camera bump on the phone's rear. Additionally, the front of the phone sees a reduction in the size of the bezels surrounding the screen. Google claims that these new models boast a durability that is double that of the Pixel 8 series, thanks to their construction with the break-resistant Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and a frame made entirely of recycled aluminum. In contrast to other premium smartphones such as the iPhone 15 Pro by Apple and the Galaxy S24 Ultra by Samsung, this design does not incorporate titanium.

The primary difference between the Pro versions and the basic Pixel 9 lies in their camera capabilities. Both the Pro and standard models feature a shared 50-megapixel main camera and a 48-megapixel wide-angle camera that now includes Macro Focus for detailed close-up photography. Similar to its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro lineup is equipped with a 48-megapixel telephoto lens that provides 5X optical zoom. Nonetheless, Google has enhanced this camera to also deliver a 10X "optical-like" zoom, promising high-quality images even at digital zoom levels, although this feature still requires verification. Additionally, the Pro models boast a superior autofocus sensor.

The Pro models boast a 42-megapixel front camera that could be more captivating, as it features autofocus and boasts a 30 percent increase in light sensitivity, along with the broadest angle of view ever on a Pixel device (103 degrees). This means you can fit more individuals into your group selfies with ease. On the other hand, the regular Pixel 9 comes with a 10.5-megapixel front-facing camera, which, for the first time, includes autofocus functionality.

Each of the three devices comes equipped with support for 45-watt charging capabilities (though you'll need to provide your own charger), a feature Google claims can recharge the battery to 70 percent in just half an hour. There is a slight improvement in battery capacity, with Google pointing out that the Pixel 9 offers a 20 percent increase in battery duration compared to the Pixel 8. Regrettably, the smartphones lack compatibility with Qi2, the latest standard in wireless charging, which would have allowed for a charging experience similar to MagSafe. Instead, users will have to rely on the older and less efficient Qi wireless charging method.

The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro are equipped with the latest Tensor G4 chip, boasting 12 GB and 16 GB of RAM, respectively. According to Google, the new processor enhances web browsing speeds by 20 percent and app opening times by 17 percent. It is also more energy-efficient and tailored to effectively run complex language models such as Gemini. These smartphones are the pioneers in utilizing Gemini Nano With Multimodality, a feature that allows the built-in AI to interpret not just text, but also visuals, sounds, and spoken words. Additionally, the devices are compatible with Gemini Live, an innovative service enabling users to engage in live voice interactions with the chatbot.

Google has announced that its new phones will be supported with software updates for seven years. Purchasers of the Pixel 9 Pro or Pro XL models will be gifted a one-year subscription to the Google One AI Premium Plan at no extra cost, featuring 2 TB of cloud storage and access to advanced Gemini features. The pricing for the Pixel 9 has been increased by $100, bringing it to $799, while the Pixel 9 Pro is priced at $999, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL will cost $1,099. Preorders for these devices are currently available, with an official release date set for August 22.

Surprisingly, these smartphones are being released with Android 14 instead of Android 15, and Google has not provided any information regarding the release date of its next mobile operating system version.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold Displayed Both Closed and Opened

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold marks the introduction of Google's second iteration in its foldable smartphone series, aligning itself with the naming convention of its counterparts in the Pixel lineup. This new version shares more similarities in specifications with its most recent flat-screen peers than its predecessor did. A notable change is in the design of the front display, which now adopts the dimensions of the 6.3-inch screen seen on the Pixel 9 Pro, providing a more uniform look and feel. Google has also enhanced app compatibility with the foldable and dual-screen setup. Unfolding the device reveals an expansive 8-inch screen, setting a new standard for foldable device displays in terms of size. Additionally, this inner display offers increased brightness levels, although it doesn't quite reach the luminosity seen on the Pixel 9 Pro.

Google has focused on creating an exceptionally slim device, boasting that it is the slimmest foldable phone available. However, at 10.5 millimeters thick, it doesn't quite surpass the Honor Magic V2 RSR, which measures slightly slimmer at 9.9 mm. Weighing in at 257 grams, it's also 26 grams lighter than its predecessor, the original Pixel Fold, thanks to an enhanced stainless steel hinge design. For comparison, the Pixel 9 Pro has a thickness of 8.5 mm and weighs 198 grams.

The imaging capabilities don't entirely live up to what the Pixel 9 Pro offers, featuring a primary 48-megapixel camera, complemented by a 10.5-megapixel wide-angle lens and a 10.8-megapixel telephoto lens capable of 5X optical magnification. Both the front-facing and internal cameras are equipped with a 10-megapixel sensor for selfies.

Got your attention, didn't I?

Several innovative functionalities have been introduced that leverage the additional screens effectively. Initially, a feature named “Made You Look” projects an engaging animation on the outer screen, aimed at capturing the gaze of infants and children towards the camera. When participating in a Google Meet call, it's possible to display the caller's image across all screens, ensuring that individuals in your vicinity can view them too (meanwhile, the caller is able to see both you and your environment). As in previous versions, Google Translate continues to offer the capability to present your translated phrases on the external screen for the person you're interacting with.

You can preorder it today for $1,799, and you'll receive a $300 store credit. It officially goes on sale starting September 4. With every purchase, customers will receive a complimentary one-year subscription to the Google One AI Premium Plan.

Fresh Applications, Solutions, and Artificial Intelligence Enhancements

Pixel Screenshots enables Gemini's artificial intelligence to extract data from screenshots, offering innovative methods to engage with the content captured in a screenshot.

Pixel smartphones are renowned for their array of advanced features, and with the introduction of the latest models, they are bringing in even more innovations along with some fresh applications. Among the new offerings is the exclusive Pixel Weather application, which leverages the in-built Gemini Nano large language model to provide concise weather summaries. Additionally, there's the Pixel Screenshots app, a specific hub for organizing your screenshots. Thanks to Gemini Nano's ability to interpret the content within these images, you can easily request information without the need to sift through various captures. Moreover, Pixel Studio has been introduced, enabling you to generate new visuals using generative AI, and even allows you to transform your photos into stickers for use.

In terms of phone calls, there's a feature named “Call Notes." This function captures a brief summary of key information from your conversation. This could include mentioned phone numbers, cost estimates for repairs, or notes to return a call—essentially logging any significant details into a note for easy access, eliminating the scramble for writing materials. Google mentions that the individual on the other line is alerted when this option is in use, in compliance with laws governing call recording.

Google's Pixel smartphones are introducing Satellite SOS, a capability initially seen on the iPhone 14 last year, marking them among the initial Android devices to possess this feature. When you're beyond the reach of Wi-Fi or cellular networks, the Pixel 9 will enable you to communicate your whereabouts and connect with your emergency contacts through satellite communication. Nevertheless, this feature doesn't come without its caveats—it necessitates preliminary configuration, incurs extra fees, and is currently limited to users within the United States. (Similar to Apple's offering, the service will be provided at no cost for the first two years following its activation.)

Google has introduced a range of innovative AI-powered camera functionalities, such as Add Me, Autoframe, Reimagine, and Zoom Enhance. I've compiled details about these features in another piece, should you be interested in discovering more. (Given the length of this article, I'll spare you the details here!)

The Pixel Watch 3 is now available in two dimensions: 41mm and 45mm.

For the first time, the latest Pixel Watch 3 offers different size choices, available in both 41-mm and 45-mm case sizes. The 45-mm variant boasts a screen that's 40 percent larger. According to Google, both models feature the same "Actua" OLED display technology found in Pixel smartphones, offering double the brightness for improved visibility in bright sunlight. Additionally, the brightness can be adjusted down to a mere 1 nit, preventing harsh light exposure before sleeping.

Google maintains that the new device will have a battery life of 24 hours, even with the always-on display feature activated, mirroring the performance of its predecessor. Additionally, users can look forward to a 20 percent increase in charging speed, with a 24-minute charge bringing the battery to 50 percent capacity, and a full charge achievable within an hour.

Numerous enhancements have been introduced to enhance user experience, such as the Auto Bedtime Mode. This feature intelligently identifies when you fall asleep and wake up, automatically activating and deactivating Bedtime Mode accordingly. When connected to a Pixel smartphone, the watch offers enhanced camera functionalities, allowing for more versatile use of the watch as a remote control for photography. Through the Google Home app on the watch, users can access a real-time view of their Nest Doorbell and security cameras, making it easier to check who is at the door. Additionally, the watch can function as a remote control for Google TV and display caller information through Call Screen. Compatibility with the ultra-wideband chip in certain smartphones enables the watch to remain unlocked, reducing the need to frequently enter a passcode. Furthermore, Google plans to introduce its Recorder app to the Pixel Watch, expanding its utility.

Google has enhanced its fitness offerings to include comprehensive support for a popular workout choice: running. The feature, termed “Plan, Run, Reflect,” allows users to design and store customized running plans that suit their preferences, including their favorite types of warm-ups, cool-downs, and specific runs like easy, long, or tempo. These plans can be transferred to your watch, where you'll receive immediate guidance through sound and vibration alerts. Additionally, Google Maps can guide you back home without an internet connection, and you can stream music directly to your connected earphones.

During your exercise sessions, the Pixel Watch 3 monitors your movements through sophisticated motion detection and artificial intelligence, recording details such as the length of your steps, your rhythm, and your bounce. All your statistics are accessible on a dedicated dashboard for running, where Google's artificial intelligence analyzes your performance to offer personalized tips on running and assistance in enhancing your technique.

A set of advanced new algorithms has been designed to monitor your fitness levels during the times you're not exercising. A novel readiness score incorporates elements such as heart rate variability, resting heart rate, and recent sleep patterns to assess your preparedness for daily activities. The feature of cardio load tracking evaluates the intensity of your heart's effort, supported by what the company claims to be its most precise heart rate monitoring technology to date. This tool adjusts your target cardio load based on your fitness level and whether you're potentially overdoing it, not doing enough, or at risk of injury. Additionally, a brand-new Morning Brief provides a concise summary of your health and fitness status each morning when you wake up.

A novel addition to the smartwatch market is the "Loss of Pulse Detection" functionality, a unique feature not previously observed in competing devices. This capability leverages the watch's heart rate and additional sensors to identify potential instances where a user may be experiencing a cessation of pulse. Should the device detect such an event, it will attempt to engage the wearer, and failing to detect any movement or acknowledgment, it will proceed to alert emergency responders. Initially rolling out in Europe, Google has expressed its intention to collaborate with regulatory authorities to extend this feature's availability to other nations.

In conclusion, and of greatest significance, the majority of the enhanced functionalities are accessible at no additional cost to all Pixel Watch 3 users, including the Daily Readiness score, instead of being restricted to Fitbit Premium members. Only the AI-generated daily running suggestions are exclusive to those subscribed to Fitbit Premium.

The Pixel Watch 3, with a diameter of 41 mm, is priced at $349 for the version that only connects to Wi-Fi, and rises to $449 for those seeking LTE capability, excluding the ongoing data plan expenses. For the larger 45 mm version, the Wi-Fi-only variant is available at $399, while opting for LTE connectivity increases the price to $499. Preorders are currently open for both sizes, with the official release date set for September 10.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2

For a while now, we've praised the Pixel Buds for being the most adorable, snug, and affordably priced earphones on the market. Both the A-Series and the Pixel Buds Pro have earned their spots in our Top Wireless Earbuds list, and it seems the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are set to continue this proud legacy. They introduce a new twist-to-fit functionality that enhances their comfort and stability on the ear (a technique some users already employ with other earbuds), and they're the first to incorporate Google's Tensor A1 chip. This innovation has allowed for a reduction in size and weight of the earbuds by approximately 27 percent.

Aside from the introduction of a new chip, the enhancements are largely minor, featuring an expanded noise-cancellation capability through Silent Seal 2.0, the integration of AI for Conversation Detection that pauses your music automatically when you begin to talk, and improved location pinpointing through Google's relatively recent Find My network. Nevertheless, these earbuds are particularly well-matched for Android users, more so for those deeply integrated into the Pixel ecosystem. They are also available in shades that coordinate perfectly with your latest Pixel smartphone.

Google is emphasizing that these earbuds will be the first to support Gemini Live. By tapping the earbud, users can engage in real-time, interactive conversations with Google's AI chatbot. Whether it's seeking dinner suggestions or having a dialogue, interruptions won't hinder the interaction.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are priced at $229 and can now be preordered. They will officially hit the market on September 26.

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