Google has launched its latest Pixel smartphones, featuring enhanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, in a bid to integrate AI more deeply into its hardware. The new models revealed at a special event at Alphabet’s Bay View campus, include significant updates and unique Pixel-specific features.
Among the new capabilities, users can now search information directly from screenshots—a feature exclusive to Pixel devices.
Additionally, the integration of Google’s Gemini chatbot allows Android users to access it as an overlay on other apps for instant answers and content generation.
Rick Osterloh, Google’s Senior Vice President of Devices and Services, stated, “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.” He emphasized, “We’re fully in the Gemini era,” highlighting the event’s focus on showcasing practical AI applications.
This launch diverges from Google’s traditional schedule, as the company unveiled the latest Pixel models earlier in the year compared to its usual autumn release. Avi Greengart, Lead Analyst at Techsponential, noted, “I’ve been to a lot of Google events and not only was this one of the most elaborate, but it was one of the most complete.” He praised Google’s position at the forefront of AI innovation.
The timing of this release positions Google ahead of Apple’s anticipated September iPhone launch.
Earlier this year, Apple announced its new iPhone will feature “Apple Intelligence” and integrate with ChatGPT by OpenAI. In response, Google showcased live demonstrations of Gemini’s new functions, though some attempts, like cross-referencing a concert poster with a calendar app, faced technical issues.
The new Pixel 9, with a 6.3-inch display, will start at $799, marking a $100 increase from its predecessor. The larger 6.8-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will ship in September. Preorders for the devices begin today.
IDC analyst Linn Huang commented, “The two things that consumers are looking at AI to do right now are organization and content creation. I think Google nailed both.” Despite holding less than 1% of the global smartphone market share, Google remains a significant player in the U.S., where it is the fourth-largest smartphone manufacturer.
The Pixel line serves as a platform for Google to demonstrate advancements and engage developers around its Android operating system, which powers over 80% of smartphones worldwide. In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also introduced updates to its Pixel Watch and Pixel Buds, including a new “Loss of Pulse” feature for the watch, which can alert emergency services if it detects a stopped heart rate. Furthermore, Google announced a partnership with Peloton to offer Fitbit Premium subscribers access to Peloton’s fitness content.
