Google has unveiled its highly anticipated Pixel 9 smartphone series, marking a significant leap in mobile AI technology and positioning itself at the forefront of the AI-powered smartphone market. The lineup includes four models: the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the company’s refined foldable device, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.At the heart of these new devices is Google’s advanced AI system, powered by the new Tensor G4 chip and the Gemini AI. This AI integration enables a suite of new features, including Gemini Live, which replaces the Google Assistant and offers a more personalized, conversational AI experience. Other AI-powered features include ‘Add Me’, which allows users to insert themselves into group photos, and ‘Magic Editor’ for advanced image editing.The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL models boast impressive camera upgrades, including a triple-camera system with a 50MP primary sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The front camera has also been upgraded to 42MP with autofocus on the Pro models.The standout Pixel 9 Pro Fold features an 8-inch internal display and a 6.3-inch external display, both with OLED technology. Google claims it’s one of the thinnest foldable phones on the market, with a specialized ‘fluid-friction hinge’ and Corning Gorilla Glass for improved durability.Pricing for the new lineup starts at $799 for the Pixel 9, $999 for the Pixel 9 Pro, $1,099 for the Pixel 9 Pro XL, and $1,799 for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. To sweeten the deal, Google is offering a free year of Gemini Live with the Pro models.Alongside the smartphones, Google also introduced the Pixel Watch 3, available in 41mm and 45mm sizes with improved battery life and new features like viewing Nest Doorbell live feeds. The new Pixel Buds Pro 2 feature a custom Tensor A1 chip for enhanced audio quality and improved noise cancellation.Google’s commitment to AI is evident in new software features like Pixel Screenshots, which can search and organize information from saved screenshots, and Pixel Studio, an AI-powered image generation tool. The company has also introduced a ‘Call Notes’ feature that can record, transcribe, and summarize phone calls.While the new devices have generated excitement, it’s worth noting that during the presentation, the Gemini AI assistant reportedly had some issues, highlighting that AI technology, while advanced, is still evolving.The Pixel 9 series is now available for pre-order, with Google promising seven years of Android updates and security patches, positioning these devices as long-term investments in the rapidly evolving world of smartphone technology. As the AI smartphone race heats up, with Apple expected to introduce its own AI features in September, Google’s early move with the Pixel 9 series could give it a significant advantage in the market.
Key points
- Google launched the Pixel 9 series with advanced AI features powered by Gemini and Tensor G4.
- Gemini Live replaces Google Assistant, offering a more personalized AI experience.
- The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is Google’s refined foldable device with an 8-inch internal display.
- New AI-powered features include Pixel Screenshots and Pixel Studio for image generation.
- Google promises seven years of Android updates for the Pixel 9 series.
Contradictions👾While most sources praise the AI capabilities, one report mentioned that the Gemini AI assistant had some issues during the presentation, highlighting that the technology is still evolving.
