Written by Kenrick Cai and Max A. Cherney
MOUNTAIN VIEW, California – Alphabet (NASDAQ:)’s Google has introduced a new lineup of Pixel smartphones with enhanced integration of artificial intelligence technology, aiming to push AI into its hardware offerings.
The new features include a Pixel-exclusive function that allows users to search for information within screenshots. Additionally, Android users can now access Gemini, Google’s chatbot, as an overlay on top of other apps to provide answers or generate content.
“Today, we are making AI more practical and useful by delivering on our promises,” said Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president of devices and services.
“We are fully embracing the Gemini era,” he announced to a crowd of engineers, executives, analysts, and media at Alphabet’s Bay View campus in Mountain View, California.
This event broke with tradition as the latest versions of Pixel smartphones were unveiled in the summer, marking a departure from Google’s usual autumn release schedule since the device’s inception in 2016.
“This event was one of Google’s most elaborate and comprehensive showcases, demonstrating its leadership in AI,” remarked Avi Greengart, lead analyst at Techsponential.
The earlier timing of the event reflects Google’s efforts to keep pace with competitors in integrating AI features into consumer products, coming ahead of Apple’s planned iPhone launch in September.
Pixel 9, the base model with a 6.3-inch display, will start at $799, $100 more than its predecessor. The Pixel 9 Pro XL with a 6.8-inch screen will also begin shipping in August, followed by the Pixel 9 Pro and the foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold in September.
Preorders for the new devices are available starting today.
“Consumers are looking to AI for better organization and content creation, and Google has delivered on both fronts,” noted IDC analyst Linn Huang.
Despite holding less than 1% market share in global smartphone shipments, Google’s Pixel line showcases advancements and fosters the developer ecosystem around its Android operating system, which powers over 80% of smartphones worldwide.
Google is engaged in a competitive race to embed AI features into consumer products, with recent upgrades to core products like its search engine.
The new Pixel devices feature redesigned exteriors, camera enhancements, and Google’s latest Tensor G4 chip.
Google also unveiled the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 wireless earbuds at the event.
The new Pixel Watch includes a “Loss of Pulse” feature that can detect if a user’s heart has stopped and contact emergency services, available in the UK and EU.
Furthermore, Google announced a content partnership with Peloton (NASDAQ:), offering Fitbit (NYSE:) Premium subscribers access to Peloton’s training classes.