AdminTuesday’s Made by Google 2024 event brought some big Pixel news, with the main headline being the introduction of the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which is exactly what it sounds like: the third, larger version of the Pixel 9 series.
It may not be a huge step forward, but — Hey — As Mashable’s Alex Perry pointed out, it’s bigger than other phones.
But that wasn’t the only big announcement on Tuesday. There was plenty more, including Pixel news, advancements in AI, a new watch, and more. Here’s everything you need to know.
Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro
Google on Tuesday unveiled the long-awaited new versions of its flagship smartphones, the Pixel 9. Simply put, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro are a bit smaller than the new Pixel 9 Pro XL, and they pack better cameras and impressive AI capabilities, Mashable’s Kim Gedeon noted after testing the new phones.
From left to right: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
“Overall, this year’s Pixel 9 series proves that Google is serious about competing with the big players in mobile,” Gedeon wrote. — This bold move will challenge Samsung and Apple’s dominance like never before.”
Additionally, the Pixel 9 comes in a deep pink shade.
Pricing for the entry-level Pixel 9 starts at $799, while the Pixel 9 Pro will cost $999.
Pixel 9 Pro XL
The Pixel 9 Pro XL was one of the biggest launches of the day.
The greatness of the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
Literally. It’s the biggest device in the Pixel 9 series. But as Mashable’s Alex Perry pointed out, the 9 Pro XL’s display is actually Almost the same Better than the Pixel 8 Pro.
Pixel 9 Pro XL display.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
That means Google has downsized the Pixel 9 Pro to make an “XL” phone that’s essentially the same as last year’s Pixel 8 Pro, with prices starting at $1,099.
Pixel 9 Pro Foldable
Nearly every mobile company not named after a fruit is experimenting with foldable phones, and Google is no exception: The company announced the Pixel 9 Pro Fold on Tuesday, which is its thinnest foldable phone yet.
Look at that screen.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
It unfolds to an 8-inch screen, with great resolution and features that allow users to make the most of the screen space, such as being able to stream up to four different videos to different quadrants of the screen.
However, pricing will start at $1,799.
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Pixel Watch 3
Google’s Pixel Watch received its latest update at the Made by Google event on Tuesday, and because everyone’s wrists are different sizes, it will finally be offered in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm.
Start running with your Pixel Watch 3.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
Mashable’s Stan Schroeder detailed some of the upgrades over the Pixel Watch 2, including larger display real estate, increased brightness, and improved workout tracking.
The Pixel Watch 3 (41mm size) starts at $349.99 for the Wi-Fi version and $449.99 for the LTE version. The Pixel Watch 3 (45mm size) starts at $399.99 for the Wi-Fi version and $499.99 for the LTE version.
Pixel Buzz Pro 2
Google has announced its latest Pixel Buds models, and like a lot of 2024 technology, they’re powered by AI. Google says that the AI capabilities of the newly installed Tensor chip will significantly improve the earbuds’ noise cancellation, make audio clearer during calls, and automatically detect IRL conversations, so you don’t have to remove your earbuds when talking to someone.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
Another big feature, as Mashable’s Matt Binder writes, is a pair of swivel-adjustable stabilizers that Google says will keep the earbuds from falling out. If this really works, it could be a big plus for runners and anyone who works out with their earbuds in. The earbuds will cost $229.99.
Gemini Live
Speaking of AI, it’s 2024 and AI is everywhere, so of course Made by Google had some AI announcements. Perhaps the most prominent of those announcements was Gemini Live, which Mashable’s Kim Gedeon called “the biggest threat to ChatGPT right now.”
Gemini Live in action.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
Google’s AI chatbot, Gemini Live, has superior voice and listening modes and performs on par with ChatGPT, Gedeon noted.
Extensive AI features
Gemini Live wasn’t the only new AI feature Google announced at its Made By Google event on Tuesday. Here are some of the biggest and coolest features.
AI-powered weather app for Pixel
The new Pixel phones — Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold — now come with a new weather app with AI capabilities.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
It basically has all the features of a regular weather app, plus an AI-powered overview that gives you an overview of the day’s weather and recommendations like applying sunscreen.
I showed you
This is for all parents.
Chicken animation from the “Made You Look” feature.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has an AI-powered feature called Made You Look that shows an animation on the display facing the subject of the photo. The AI-powered feature detects when the subject is looking at the animation and grabs their attention before taking the photo. Basically, it helps you take better snapshots of your kids, which is very handy.
Add me
Google has just released another great AI-powered photography feature called “Add Me.”
You didn’t see her, but now you do.
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
The idea is simple enough to understand: take a group photo, then take a photo of you, and the AI will merge the photos together and drop you into the group photo. No need to ask strangers for help.
Pixel Screenshot
Personally, this is a big deal for me as I take way too many screenshots.
Using Pixel screenshots
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable
Google’s new Pixel phones have the ability to create titles and summaries for your screenshots, making them searchable. Much easier Find memes now.
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