Key Announcements from Made by Google 2024

On August 13, 2024, Google held its annual Made By Google presentation, unveiling updates to its flagship devices. The spotlight was primarily on the Pixel 9 smartphone series and new neural network features. Additionally, the company showcased the Pixel Watch 3 and the Pixel Buds Pro 2.

New Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro

Google has officially unveiled its new Pixel 9 smartphone lineup, which includes three traditional models and a foldable phone. The standard range features the base Pixel 9 with a 6.3-inch display, the Pixel 9 Pro XL with a 6.8-inch screen, and the new, smaller Pixel 9 Pro with a 6.3-inch display. All devices come with a refreshed design featuring an oval-shaped camera, the upgraded Google G4 Tensor chip, improved battery life, and a new satellite SOS function.

Prices for the new models start at $799 for the base Pixel 9, which is $100 more than the previous version. The Pixel 9 Pro will start at $999, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL will be priced from $1,099. Sales of the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL will begin on August 22, with the Pixel 9 Pro becoming available in September.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold: thinner profile

In addition to the standard models, Google unveiled the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This device is slimmer and taller than its predecessor, featuring larger displays: a 6.3-inch external screen and an 8-inch internal screen.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold also features the G4 Tensor chip and an internal display with a higher maximum brightness of 2700 nits, a significant increase from the 1450 nits in the previous model. The new device is priced at $1,799, with sales set to begin on September 4.

Features with Artificial Intelligence support

The new Pixel 9 lineup from Google is packed with intelligent features powered by the Gemini AI assistant:

• Gemini Live aims to be like a friend on your smartphone. You can chat with it even when the device is locked, show the assistant a picture, and it will describe what’s in it. This feature is available for a monthly fee of $20.

• Pixel Screenshots is a unified section for screenshots, consolidating all important information. Gemini helps you find data in saved images and can create reminders or calendar entries based on the content.
• Add Me — no more need for a helper with group photos. The smartphone combines two shots into one, seamlessly adding the person to the group picture.

• Pixel Studio — generate images from text prompts and also edit photos using this tool.

• Call Notes — transcribes phone conversations longer than 30 seconds.
• Pixel Weather — a new app providing more accurate weather forecasts, with AI ensuring reliability.

Pixel Watch 3: Larger Sizes and New Features

Google has introduced the new Pixel Watch 3, now available in a larger 45mm size, in addition to the 41mm model. The watch features slimmer bezels for more screen real estate, a new chip with ultra-wideband connectivity, a display with a brightness of up to 2000 nits, and a host of new fitness features.

Among the most notable new features is the ability to detect if the user's pulse has stopped. If the watch fails to receive a response to a status check request and does not detect movement, it can automatically call emergency services. This feature will initially be available in Europe. The 41mm model starts at $349.99, while the 45mm model is priced from $399.99. Sales of both versions will begin on September 10.

Pixel Buds Pro 2

The updated Pixel Buds Pro 2 are now smaller and lighter, but feature 11mm drivers and a new Tensor A1 chip that enhances active noise cancellation (ANC). The earbuds also come with wings for better stability during workouts and can operate for up to eight hours with ANC enabled or up to 30 hours with the charging case. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are priced at $229, which is slightly higher than their predecessors, which cost $200. Sales of the new earbuds will begin on September 26.