Alphabet’s Google revealed a new lineup of Pixel smartphones on Tuesday, integrating deeper artificial intelligence (AI) technology as the company intensifies its push to embed AI into its hardware products. Among the notable upgrades is a Pixel-exclusive feature that allows users to search for information stored in screenshots. Additionally, Android users can now access Gemini, Google’s chatbot, as an overlay on other apps to answer questions or generate content.
“There have been so many promises, so many coming-soons, and not enough real-world helpfulness when it comes to AI, which is why today we’re getting real,” said Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president of devices and services. “We’re fully in the Gemini era,” he added during the event at Alphabet’s Bay View campus in Mountain View, California.
In a break from tradition, Google announced the latest Pixel smartphones in the summer, rather than the usual autumn launch. The Pixel 9, featuring a 6.3-inch display, starts at $799—$100 more than its predecessor. The 6.8-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL will ship later in August, while the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold are slated for September release. All new gadgets are available for preorder starting Tuesday.
Google’s event, described as one of the most elaborate by Avi Greengart, lead analyst at Techsponential, highlighted the company’s position at the forefront of AI. The earlier timing is Google’s latest attempt to stay competitive, especially as Apple prepares to launch a new iPhone in September, boasting its own AI-powered features.
Despite the innovation, Google holds less than 1% of the global smartphone market share as of Q2 2024, trailing behind Samsung and Apple. The Pixel line, however, serves as a showcase for Google’s advances and stimulates the developer ecosystem around its Android operating system, installed on over 80% of smartphones globally.
Additionally, Google introduced new versions of its smartwatch, Pixel Watch 3, and Pixel Buds Pro 2 wireless earbuds. The Pixel Watch now includes a “Loss of Pulse” feature that detects if a user’s heart has stopped and can contact emergency services, available in the UK and EU.
In partnership news, Google announced a collaboration with Peloton, giving subscribers to Google’s Fitbit Premium service access to Peloton’s training classes.