Far from its normal schedule, the Made by Google happened much earlier than past years. Rather than its usual time frame in October, it was held on August 13 at the company's headquarters in Mountain View, CA. Some of the notable announcements include the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel Watch 3, and more.
It turned out to be one of the busiest, most device filled announcements from the company in recent memory, which could give Google a leg up with Apple's iPhone 16 launch reportedly happening next month. You'll find out if the new devices and AI features shown off at the Made by Google event are enough to convince people.
Now that the event has concluded, let’s take a look at all the big highlights.
Made by Google biggest announcements
- Google Pixel 9: The Pixel 9 packs a 6.3-inch display, complete with a new redesign that now features an elongated, oval-shaped camera bar. It’s also powered by the new Tensor G4 chip and 12GB of RAM.
- Google Pixel 9 Pro: The Pixel 9 Pro is has a smaller 6.3-inch display versus the XL model, but it keeps the same triple camera setup complete with a 48MP telephoto shooter with 5x optical zoom.
- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: Google’s bringing back the XL variant this year, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL packing a larger 6.8-inch display and 5,060 mAh battery. Not only does it share the same camera setup as the Pixel 9 Pro, but also the same suite of new AI features as well.
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold packs an 8-inch main display and a 6.3-inch cover screen, while its triple cameras consist of a 48MP main camera, 10.5MP ultrawide, and 10.8MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom.
- Google Pixel Watch 3: For its third-generation smartwatch, the Pixel 3 Watch is available in two sizes for the first time ever: 41mm and 45mm. In addition, it’s rated to have a brighter screen upwards of 2,000 nits.
- Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: It’s been roughly two years since the last one, but the Made by Google finally introduces a new pair of wireless earbuds. So far, it's keeping the same charming design the earbuds have been known for, but in a much smaller, lighter package.
- Google AI features: AI has been the talk for many tech companies the last year, so Google’s no stranger when it comes to this. One of the most intriguing AI features is Pixel screenshots, which allows the new Pixel phones to recall content from your screenshots.
- Google Gemini: The AI assistant is getting smarter with enhanced conversational skills that not only make it sound more human, but also intelligent enough to interact with other apps and services.
Pricing leaks ahead of the event
We’re nearing our first official look at Google’s upcoming phones, but a leak ahead of the event sheds light on the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s pricing. Since it would technically be the direct successor to the Pixel 8 Pro, it might shock people that the large version of the Pixel 9 Pro could be $100 more with a starting cost of $1,099. Given how cheaper prices have often been a key trait for Pixel phones, this increase might lessen its appeal over competing handsets.
Lingering questions
On the one hand, it's not too hard to figure out what Google is going to announce at one of its hardware events. Between stuff the company outright confirms — there are already teaser videos for the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, for example — and rumors that fill in the key details, you usually head into a Google product announcement with a pretty good idea of what's in store.
Yet, there are still some known unknowns, and managing editor for mobile Philip Michaels lists the big questions about the new Pixel phones and smartwatches heading into today's event.
Storage upgrades in the works?
It's always worth paying attention to preorder deals when a new flagship phone gets announced, and at least one rumor tips Google to be preparing a pretty good one. In fact, it sounds like Google may be copying one of the better preorder offers that Samsung typically makes when it comes out with a new phone.
For instance, when the Galaxy Z Fold 6 came out last month, Samsung offered a free storage upgrade to anyone who preordered that device — meaning you could get a 512GB Fold for the same price as the 256GB base model.
A UK retailer has posted details of Google's Pixel preorder deal ahead of the launch of those phones, and it's the same thing that Samsung did — upgrade to the next tier of storage at no additional cost. Yes, base models of the Pixel phones are expected to feature 128GB of storage, so you'll be able to get a bump to 256GB for free. But that also means the 512GB and 1TB versions of some Pixel phones can be had for less.
Even though this comes from a UK retailer, it may turn out to be a global preoder offer, as a French source had the same deal in an earlier leak.
Changes in store
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is shaping up to be a radical departure from the original Pixel Fold. And we’re not just talking about the name. The main display is tipped to be a whopping 8 inches, which would be the biggest on a foldable. And the cover display is expected to grow from 5.8 to 6.3 inches.
Based on Google’s own teaser, the bezels are slimmer too, which is good to see.The Tensor G4 chip will be running the show, and we’ve already heard about some AI features it will power, such as Add Me for group photos and a screenshots feature that will hopefully be way less creepy than Microsoft’s Recall. Let’s just hope Google doesn’t give this phone a Galaxy Z Fold 6-like price hike.
Where's Android 15?
Normally, new Pixel flagship would mean a new version of the Android operating system debuting on Google's latest phones. But one rumor suggests that when we lay eyes on the Pixel 9 models later today, they'll be running Android 14 and not the update that's currently in development.
That new version is Android 15, and it will certainly run on the Pixel 9 at some point, if not right away. Features in Android 15 include fater web page loads, the return of lock screen widgets and more.
It doesn't sound like Android 15 is behind schedule. Instead, the reason for the lack of Android 15 appears to be Google's decision to move up the launch of its new phones from October to now. Even if we don't see Android 15 today, we do hope Google offers some clarity on when the update will be out — not just for the Pixel 9 models, but for all Pixel devices.
Color scheming
A couple months ago, the list of potential Pixel 9 colors leaked, and nothing's come out since then to make us think that leak was off base. In fact, from the renders that have emerged, it seems like the rumored color choices for Google's upcoming phones are pretty spot-on.
Here's what we're expecting.
- Pixel 9: Porcelain, Obsidian, Peony and Jade
- Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL: Porcelain, Obsidian, Rose and Hazel
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Porcelain and Obsidian
What's new with the Pixel Watch
The Pixel 9 phones won't be the only devices debuting at Made by Google today. Google is also supposed to show off new watches, just like it did last October, when the Pixel Watch 2 joined the Pixel 8 phones at Google's launch party.
Our smartwatch expert Dan Bracaglia says he's looking for three things with the Pixel Watch 3 — larger sizes, better battery life and a brighter display. We'll find out later today if Google can deliver.
Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8
Thanks to all the Pixel 9 rumors floating around out there, we already have a pretty good idea of how a Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 8 comparison might shake down. We're waiting for Google to confirm what we've heard about its new phones, of course, but in the hours leading up to the Made by Google event, feel free to look at our preview to see how the new phone might change things up.
Will the Pixel 9 Pro Fold be worth it?
Buying a foldable phone is not for the faint of heart or light of wallet, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold doesn't appear to be an exception. We haven't heard much in the way of pricing rumors for the new foldable, but we'd consider it a win if Google's new foldable retained the price of the original, given how Samsung just upped the price on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip by $100 each over their predecessors.
Still, when you've got to fork over $1,799 for a phone, you want to make sure you're getting your money's worth. Our colleague Tom Pritchard isn't sure that will be the case with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, given the rumors that are out there about the phone's features.
About those new Pixel Buds
Of all the products likely to appear today, we've heard the least amount about the Pixel Buds Pro 2. It's understandable — accessories don't get as much attention as the devices they support, so most people are probably paying attention to the Pixel 9 phones.
Still, we've heard a few things about the Pixel Buds Pro 2 — namely, that they're supposed to retain a stemless design and feature color-coded options, as you can see in the leaked image above. More importantly, we're looking for improved battery life in the new wireless earbuds.
Today's Made by Google event is actually Google's second product launch in as many weeks. If you recall, last week Google introduced new smart home products led by the Google TV Streamer and the latest Google Nest Learning Thermostat. Google also announced improvements around its Home app focused on leveraging AI for its security cameras.
Those announcements are significant in their own right, but they also clear the decks for Google to spend more time on its phones and smartwatches today.
A win for fans of smaller phones
Normally we only get two new Pixel flagships each year, a standard model around 6-inches in size and a much larger Pro model — which is usually closer to 7-inches. The Pixel 9 series is doing things a little differently, by throwing a smaller Pro model into the mix.
Rumor has it that the Pixel 9 Pro will be around the same size as the Pixel 9, but with all the hardware and features people have come to expect from the larger Pro models. That way you don’t need to decide between having a smaller screen and Pro-tier features like the telephoto lens and faster charging.
Of course the Pixel 9 Pro XL should also be around for those of you that do want the big screen. Though the difference between the two Pro models will be pretty elementary. It sounds like it’ll have a bigger display, and presumably a bigger battery, and not much else.
Shine bright like a… Pixel?
One of the standout features for the Pixel 8 series was Google’s new Actua and Super Actua displays. Both phones enjoyed a huge boost in brightness, with the Pixel 8 Pro even beating out the iPhone 15 Pro Max with 1,600 nits of HDR brightness and 2,400 nits of peak brightness.
According to rumors the Pixel 9 series will push the envelope even further, with HDR brightness hitting 2,050 nits on both Pro models and 1,800 nits on the Pixel 9. While we don’t know what the peak rated brightness could be right now, that much of a boost in HDR brightness means it should jump a considerable amount. But will the Pixel 9 Pro manage to outshine the 2,600 nit Samsung Galaxy S24?
Pixel 9 Pro XL specs are already out there
It wouldn’t be a Google event without a bunch of the major announcements leaking ahead of time. It happens every single year, and 2024 is proving to be no exception. What appears to be a full list of specs for the Pixel 9 Pro XL hit the net just before the weekend, revealing more or less everything we needed to know about the upcoming hardware.
According to the leak we could be getting a 6.8-inch phone powered by the Tensor G4, and storage ranging from 128GB to 1TB. Unsurprisingly the leak also claims we’re getting a triple lens rear camera system made up of a 50MP main camera, 48MP ultrawide and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. On paper that’s the same as the cameras on the Pixel 8 Pro.
What’s changed is that this leak claims we’re getting a RAM upgrade to 16GB, up from 12GB, and a new 42MP selfie camera. Considering the Pixel 8 Pro had a 10.5MP front camera lens, that’s quite the upgrade. But whether the photo quality will match the leap in resolution is another matter entirely. The leak also suggests a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits and a starting price of $1,099 — $100 more than the Pixel 8 Pro cost.
What we’ve heard suggests the Pixel 9 Pro will be more or less the same as the Pixel 9 Pro XL, so expect similar specs for that phone too — minus the large screen.
Weather enters the AI race
AI seems to be getting added to just about everything these days, and it seems Google could be leveraging its experience in the field with a brand new weather app. Yes you read that correctly, the Pixel 9 could get a revamped weather app that’s bringing AI summaries along for the ride.
The APK for the revamped Weather app has already leaked, meaning you can actually install it onto other Android phones. But admittedly it does appear to be unfinished, and the AI summaries we’ve heard about don’t seem to be available to check out just yet. How that particular feature is going to work isn’t particularly clear right now, so we’ll have to wait and see what Google reveals during the Made By Google Event.
What we know about Pixel Watch 3
The Pixel phones won’t be the only devices on show at Made by Google, but despite all the leaks we’ve seen very few of them have actually focused on the Pixel Watch 3. So the third generation Google watch is still something of a mystery just hours before Made by Google is going to take place.
What we have heard so far is that the Pixel Watch 3 may come in two different sizes for the first time, with 41mm and 45mm options on sale. On top of that rumors claim that we’ll see thinner bezels than the Pixel Watch 2, double the brightness at 2,000 nits, and a 60Hz refresh rate to make everything look smoother than you might be accustomed to on older Google watches.
Feature-wise we’re potentially looking at getting new gesture controls, better fitness tracking, support for ultrawideband (UWB), and another device that can be added to Google’s offline Find My Device network. Not to mention improved battery life, which is something most flagship smartwatches need.
Sadly the price may be going up, so be prepared to have to pay more money this year.
An ultrawide upgrade — but only on Pixel 9
Photography is one of the things Pixel phones have been consistently good at, thanks to Google’s investment in the software side of things. But that doesn’t mean we can’t appreciate it when the hardware gets an upgrade as well. According to one rumor we could be in store for one such upgrade this year — but only on the Pixel 9.
This rumor claims that the Pixel 9 could have the same main and ultrawide lenses as the Pixel 9 Pro, each offering 50MP of resolution. Considering the Pixel 8 only had a 12MP ultrawide camera, that could have a big impact on the photos you take with the second camera lens.
Meanwhile this same rumor claims that the Pro models could get 50MP selfie cameras complete with autofocus. While recent rumors have downgraded that resolution to 42MP, the fact that the front-facing camera may actually be able to focus in on you by itself should stop you accidentally producing a bunch of blurry selfies.
What pre-order bonuses can we expect?
Rumors about the Pixel 9 pre-order bonuses are few and far between this year, but two potential offers have popped up at retailers over in Europe. The first being the possibility of a free storage upgrade, letting early adopters get double the storage without having to pay extra for it.
The other rumor comes from a retailer in France, who claims that Pixel 9 owners will be given complimentary access to the Google One AI Premium plan — which includes 2TB of cloud storage and access to Gemini Advanced. Gemini Advanced being the more capable version of Google’s AI, with all the latest and best new features — including coding assistance, data analysis, creative tools and more.
Apparently Pixel 9 owners will be eligible for 6 months free access to the subscription, which would normally cost $120, while Pixel 9 Pro buyers (including the foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold) will get a whole year included with their phone — normally worth $240. Sadly there’s been no word on whether free Pixel Watch 3 or Pixel Buds Pro 2 will be available as a pre-order bonus. But with these perks potentially on offer, I wouldn’t bet on it.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 may get an ANC upgrade — with a catch
We’ve heard rumors about the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 launching at Made by Google later today, and the details are still coming. The latest piece of news is that the buds might come with significantly better active noise cancelling than the original Pixel Buds Pro — aided by the new Tensor A1 chip.
Considering that was one of our biggest complaints, and meant the Buds missed a spot on our best noise cancelling earbuds page an upgrade can only be a good thing.
But it sounds like there’s going to be a price to pay for this upgrade. No, we’re not talking about money. Apparently the boosted ANC will come at the cost of overall battery life, with the Buds Pro 2 reportedly offering 8 hours of listening time — or 30 if you have a fully charged case. The original Pixel Buds Pro offered 31 hours in total, with the buds themselves offering 11 hours of listening time per charge.
It’s not a huge difference when you account for the charging case, but it might be worth bearing in mind if you’re looking for a new pair of earbuds.
Should you buy the Pixel 9 at launch?
We haven’t heard many rumors about Pixel 9 series pricing this year, though one leak out of Europe suggests that the price of some models may be going up again this year. Which is not ideal, considering we already had a price hike with the Pixel 8 series. But either way it may be worth waiting to pick up a Pixel 9, like UK Phones Editor Tom Pritchard.
Why? Because every year we see the Pixel flagship launch, and go on sale extremely quickly. Granted that’s because the phones usually launch in October, right before the Black Friday sale event, but it doesn’t change the fact that a little patience can usually save you a bit of cash.
But it may all depend on the kind of pre-order bonuses Google and retailers are offering this year. So far we’ve heard about storage upgrades and possibly free access to Gemini Advanced — which might be worth it
Even more Circle to Search upgrades are on the way
Circle to Search is one of the best features Google has rolled out in recent years. Despite only launching in January alongside the Samsung Galaxy S24 there have already been a bunch of big upgrades — and it sounds like more could be on the way.
Brand new APK files suggest that the Files by Google app could be getting a Circle to Search-infused upgrade. 9to5Google found that opening a new image added an extra button next to the Edit button — and tapping it opened up the image in Circle to Search. That essentially means you can open up the interface without having to go through the usual gesture, which would also include the File app interface.
It was also revealed that Circle to Search may also be getting a music identification feature, ensuring you don’t have to use a third party app like Shazam to figure out what song is playing in your elevator.
A brand new charger for faster charging speeds
One rumor we’ve seen pop up in recent weeks involves a brand new 45W charging brick — suggesting the Pixel 9 series may exceed the 30W limit imposed by the last Google charging brick — which debuted alongside the Pixel 6 series. But whether the new phones will support 45W wired charging is another matter entirely.
The 30W charging brick may be coming up to its 3rd birthday, but the only Pixel phone to actually reach 30W speeds was the Pixel 8 Pro. Sadly the Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 7 Pro capped out at 23W, something Google got into trouble for not being completely transparent about. So chances are that the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro won’t be reaching those lofty 45W speeds either.
But it does mean that one or more of these phones should still offer more than 30W charging speeds. Which is always a good thing, especially with Google’s spotty history of weak battery life.
Satellite connectivity comes to Android
One of the things we know Android 15 will feature is support for satellite connectivity, with support for emergency calls and general text messaging. But software support is only part of the equation, and you still need a phone physically capable of connecting to those satellites to make use of the feature.
Word is that the Pixel 9 series could be the first Android phones with this capability, allowing non-iPhone users to make emergency calls even if there’s no cellphone signal in that particular area. Code breakdowns suggest that the service could be called Pixel Satellite SOS and may be free for the first two years — just like Apple has offered with Emergency SOS via Satellite.
We don’t know whether users will be able to send messages via satellite in non-emergency situations, which Apple is adding with iOS 18, or where and when the service will actually roll out. That said, being able to get help in the event of an emergency can only be a good thing — and hope Pixel Satellite SOS is as helpful as Apple’s version has proven to be.
New colors to accompany new Pixels — which one would you choose?
Google's Pixel phones have historically been offered in an array of colors. With this year's set, they're all expected to get just as much love. Leaked images of the Pixel 9 Pro indicate four new colors: Porcelain, Obsidian, Rose and Hazel. While porcelain and obsidian have been offered in the past, rose and hazel would be the two new additions for this year's lineup. Which one do you think looks the best?
Pixel 9 Pro Fold software: what it needs to stand out
Since it would be directly competing against the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold needs more than hardware to come out on top in earning that best foldable phone title.
The software, in particular, would need to prove to people that it's much more practical and robust than the competition. While AI features are tipped to enhance it, like a new Call Notes function to record and summarize phone calls, we're eager to see how it improves in other aspects of the experience like multitasking.
You might be taking more screenshots than ever before
One of the coolest new AI features tipped for the Pixel 9 lineup is this new one called "Pixel Screenshots" that can recall information in your screenshots. This would be handy for information you might need to recall later on, like a passcode or details about an invitation.
It's hard to say how effective it really is until it's shown off. However, if it end up working as the rumors suggest, it could result in users taking more screenshots with the new Pixels than ever before. It's a good start, but do you think there's still room to make it better?
Made by Google events: here's everything we're expecting to see
Our own global editor-in-chief, Mark Spoonauer, breaks down all of the stuff we're expecting to see at today's Made by Google event, which is now only a short few hours away. This year's event is tipped to announce more devices than ever before, with the new Pixel 9 lineup leading the way.
While we also expect to see follow ups to Google's smartwatch and wireless earbuds, you never know what else could be announced — especially for the end.
Tensor G4 could be the one thing that really binds the Pixel 9 lineup
Another one of the rumors about the Pixel 9 lineup is that only chip will be used to power all of them. Google's approach could be to arm them with the Tensor G4 chip, which leaked benchmark scores indicated marked improvements over last year's Tensor G3.
Given how the Tensor G3 failed to keep pace with rival chips like Apple's A17 Pro and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in various benchmark tests, this will be an opportunity to show that the Tensor G4 means business this time around. In addition, it's tipped that the extra boost will greatly impact the way the new Pixel phones will handle AI features.
Google Gemini might be the show-stealing feature to look out for
Everyone's drooling about the hardware in Google's upcoming Pixel 9 lineup, but not to be overlooked is the virtual assistant that could be the show stealing feature at the event later today.
The Google Gemini app is available to access on many Android phones already, but it's tipped to gain even more features and capabilities with the Pixel 9. There's already been a leaked report about the Pro models getting a year's access to the Gemini Advanced AI model.
Gemini could do much more on these new Pixel 9 devices, including the ability to tap into third-party apps for more complex actions. This could be key in making this virtual assistant stand apart from rivals like OpenAI's GPT range of models. Not only could it be used to answer simple questions or help create lists based on your request, but it could take the extra step of actually working with other apps. It's hard to say if there will be anything new about the virtual assistant outside of what was previewed with Android 15 at Google I/O 2024.
Tom's Guide is live at Mountain View and ready for Google
And just like that, we've arrived at Mountain View to cover everything that Google intends to announce. Our editors will let you know everything that's happening at the Made by Google event, which is slated to start at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. BST.
It's about to get busy at the Made by Google event
I’m here at #MadeByGoogle for Pixel 9 launch. Here’s a quick look around pic.twitter.com/TsAupODCQaAugust 13, 2024
Things are getting busier over at Mountain View, where the Made by Google event is expected to show off new devices as members of the press are starting to arrive on site. There's clearly going to be a lot to cover, but so far there doesn't appear to be any signage of what Google could be unveiling. Stay tuned!
Forget Pixel 9 Pro XL — the Pixel 9 Pro could be the better buy
This year it looks like we're getting two 'Pro' models: the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL. Naturally, one would suspect that the 9 Pro XL would be the better one namely because larger flagships often get the best cameras — like the Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
However, leaks suggest that the smaller Pixel 9 Pro will have the same triple camera setup as the Pixel 9 Pro XL. This would also include a 48MP telephoto camera, complete with a 5x optical zoom. If this perhaps ends up being true, it could mean that the Pixel 9 Pro is the one that's worth getting.
Campus map reveals Pixels, wearables, home, and Gemini
It's not often that Google holds its Pixel event at its headquarters, but you can sure bet it's going to be big based on this snapshot of the campus map complete with sections of where stuff will be shown off. The clues in the map indicate sections for Gemini, Pixel, wearables, Home, and more.
Badges in tow, let's recap on what we could see
@tomsguide ♬ original sound - Tom’s Guide
Our own Kate Kozuch just got her badge for the Made by Google event, so she's one step closer to getting access to everything that will be announced. If you're curious about what could be announced, watch Kate in the video above to get all the juicy tidbits — including what could be a name change for the successor to last year's Pixel Fold.
Let the magic begin! We're getting ready to head to our seats
One of the best parts about covering live events is the buildup to the keynote. Google's undoubtedly expected to reveal new devices in a short while, but the anticipation leading up to it is the hardest part! As we make our way to the keynote area, Google is really convincing everyone that they're in store for some magic.
Hello new Pixel phone and Pixel Watch?
@mspoonyg ♬ original sound - mspoonyg
We're in our seats and absorbing the scenery at the Made by Google event. However, there's a clip being shown on stage that appears to be none other than the new Pixel 9 Pro/9 Pro XL because of the peculiar camera bar on the back. If that's not enough, the clip also appears to tease the Pixel Watch 3 too.
Did the new Pixel Buds Pro 2 get teased?
And we’re inside! Get ready for #MadeByGoogle. I’m most excited for new Pixel 9 Pro Fold… pic.twitter.com/AV1oI1st2yAugust 13, 2024
Google's rotating video clip at its keynote stage is giving us plenty of teases, including what appears to be the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2. It only comes up for a short moment in the clip above, but you can clearly make out some of the new design changes to the earbuds.
The show's about to begin!
We're in our seats at the keynote area with a few short minutes before the event's expected to kick off. Again, we're getting a tease of the Pixel 9 Pro, which consists of a triple camera arrangement.
AI seems to take center stage
The Made by Google event has begun! Before any new devices are unveiled, AI kicks off the event with Rick Osterloh taking the stage.
Gemini aims to be a more robust assistant
Right off the bat, all the talk has been largely focused on Gemini and what it could do. It's clear that the new AI assistant will have a critical part in making Android a more complete, robust platform.
Gemini demo doesn't quite go as planned
Google's showing off more of what Gemini could do on mobile, but it appears to hit a snafu during a live demo. After taking a photo with Gemini, the demo unexpectedly hits a snag that forced them to switch to another device for the feature to work.
Gemini Live sounds an actual person speaking
In making its virtual assistant better, Google's showing off the natural language conversation with Gemini Live. The demo not only shows off the different voices to choose from, but also how it's better able to conduct conversations in a more natural way — even when there are pauses or when the speaker cuts off Gemini mid-sentence.
No compromise Pixel phones
Google's making a bold claim that its new Pixel phones have no compromises. The new Pixel 9 lineup is getting its long overdue unveiling, especially how the two Pro models have a lot in common with one another.
Listen to how Gemini sounds more like an actual person
Google Gemini Live… the voices sound super natural. Here’s a few of the options #MadeByGoogle pic.twitter.com/YJWGEuqSAXAugust 13, 2024
Gone are the days of long pauses and robotic tones. Gemini's getting a big upgrade with better conversational skills and new voices to choose from. Take a listen to how they sound.
Meet the Pixel 9 Pro Fold: the thinnest foldable
Google briefly talked about the Pixel 9 Pro devices, but it quickly took a step to unveil the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which features the thinnest design in a foldable and some new multitasking experiences.
AI powered Pixel Weather app
There's a new way to check the weather with the Pixel 9 devices with the help of Gemini. The new Pixel Weather app creates a custom look for all the details you need.
Call Notes records and creates summaries with phone calls
Don't you hate forgetting about what you've been chatting about in a phone call? Well, the new Call Notes feature for Pixel lets users record phone calls, which could then be summarized with the help of on-device AI. You'll have access to the full transcription as well.
Pixel Screenshots is your second brain to remember things
Another new AI-powered feature coming to Pixel phones is the new Pixel Screenshots app that will analyze your screenshots, so the information can be recalled later on. Think of it as a backup to your memory, since AI can pull details from your stored screenshots so you can ask requests later on. This could be helpful in recalling details you've forgotten, just as long as you keep on taking screenshots on what matters most.
Finally, complete image generation with Pixel Studio
You no longer need to download a third party app to generate custom images of sketches because Pixel Studio is a new app that's natively available on the new Pixels. Using a text box, you can quickly edit photos — or even generate ones from scratch. From the looks of the demo Google's showing off, it doesn't take long either.
Night Sight comes to low light panoramas
One of the coolest demos we're seeing at the Made by Google event is the new Night Sight mode with low light panoramas. The new panoramic mode makes low light shots look a bright as day!
AR-assisted Add Me makes group photos easier
Don't you hate it when you're excluded from a family photo because you have to be the one to take the shot? With the new Add Me feature with the Pixel phones, it leverage AR to help the photographer to be included in the photo.
Made You Look makes it easy to take photos of your kids
Parents know how tough it can be to get the attention of their kids for photo opportunities, which is why the Made You Look feature with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold lets them load fun, animated clips on the outer screen to get their attention.
Magic Editor gains new generative editing skills
Reimagine is a new AI-assisted photo editing tool for the Pixel 9 phones that lets users extend a scene with the help of generative AI. It analyzes a photo to intelligently give the photo more details and a wider view.
If that's not enough, you can use it to manipulate other parts of a photo by typing what you want it to do. Really, it's could put human photo editors out of a job.
Here's a demo of the generative abilities of Magic Editor
Google Pixel 9 has a very impressive AI Reimagine feature that lets you add details to your shots just by typing. Just describe what you want. pic.twitter.com/dnadOiPuN7August 13, 2024
You can watch how the new Pixel 9 devices can help with create and edit photos with the new generative AI tools with Magic Editor.
Pixel 9 prices revealed, preorders start today
Pricing has been revealed for the Pixel 9 lineup. The Pixel 9 starts at $799, while the Pro models start at $999 and the 9 Pro Fold fetches for $1,799. Preorders for all the devices are available starting today.
Pixel Watch 3 to come in two sizes
There's now an extra option to choose from with this year's Pixel Watch 3 because it's going to be available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm. The larger size is a boost and the first ever in the series to date, giving you more screen on your wrist. They're also accompanied by new features, like the ability to stream your security camera's live feed.
Pixel Watch 3 gets a price hike
Even with two new models to choose from, you're going to be paying more for this year's Pixel Watch 3 because the 41mm sells for $349, while the 45mm fetches for $399. Compare that to the $249 starting cost of last year's model.
Redesigned Pixel Buds Pro 2 are twice as secure
In making its wireless earbuds more secure, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 feature a new twist design that instantly makes them lock into your ear than ever before, while also weighing a lot less than the previous model.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 priced at $229
With its new, more compact design and Google Gemini integration, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 seem like a promising companion to the Pixel 9 devices. You'll only have to fork over $229 to get them.
Gemini will help out with researching
There will come a time when researching doesn't occupy your time. That's because Research with Gemini is a new feature Google's working on to let its assistant do all the heavy lifting of compiling research papers. It's a feature that Google's hoping to roll out some time in the future.
That's a wrap!
The event has finally come to a close with no special surprises at the end. Keep an eye out on the site to learn everything new about Gemini, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel Watch 3, and Pixel Buds Pro 2.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold hands-on video
The Google Pixel Pro 9 Fold is one shockingly improved. Our global editor in chief Mark Spoonauer got his hands on the new Fold and came away impressed with the 8-inch display (the largest in a foldable phone), the very thin design and powerful AI features. His favorite is Add Me for adding yourself to photos after the fact, and the Pixel Studio generates AI images super fast. And it's cheaper than the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
