Google Unveils Pixel 9 Series with Advanced AI Features

Google has officially launched its Pixel 9 series at the latest Made by Google hardware event. The new lineup includes four devices: three slab phones and a foldable model, each featuring significant upgrades and innovative AI-driven features.

Expanded Pixel 9 Lineup

Pixel 9 Series:

• Pixel 9: 6.3-inch display, $799.
• Pixel 9 Pro: 6.3-inch display, $999.
• Pixel 9 Pro XL: 6.8-inch display, $1,099.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold:

• Foldable device with a 6.3-inch external display and 8-inch internal display, $1,799.
• Available from September 4.

AI Integration Takes Center Stage

A key highlight of the new Pixel 9 series is the integration of advanced AI functionality. The Gemini AI assistant, introduced across the lineup, offers enhanced capabilities such as in-app information retrieval and photo analysis. Google has also launched two new AI-powered apps: Pixel Screenshots and Pixel Studio. Pixel Screenshots allows users to search for information within saved screenshots, while Pixel Studio provides a text-to-image generation tool, empowering users to create visuals from text prompts.

The updated Pixel cameras benefit from several AI enhancements, including the “Add Me” feature, which can seamlessly insert individuals into group photos by merging multiple scenes. Additionally, the Magic Editor in Google Photos has been upgraded to enable generative AI-powered alterations, such as replacing entire sections of a photo for a more refined final image.

Additional Hardware Announcements

Google has also unveiled significant updates to other hardware products. The Pixel Watch 3 now includes a new 45mm model alongside the existing 41mm version. This smartwatch features an ultra-wideband chip, a brighter display reaching up to 2,000 nits, and a range of new fitness functionalities. The 41mm Pixel Watch 3 is priced at $349.99, while the 45mm version starts at $399.99. Both models will be available starting September 10.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 have been introduced with a smaller and lighter design. These earbuds are equipped with 11-millimeter drivers and the new Tensor A1 chip, which enhances active noise cancellation (ANC). They offer up to eight hours of playback with ANC enabled, extending to 30 hours with the charging case. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 will launch on September 26, priced at $229.

Gemini Live

In addition to the new hardware, Google has rolled out Gemini Live, a voice chat feature for Gemini Advanced subscribers. This feature allows users to engage with Google’s AI assistant in a conversational manner, providing responses in one of ten different voices. This new functionality aims to offer a more intuitive and natural user experience, enhancing the way users interact with their devices.

Conclusion

The Pixel 9 series, with its combination of advanced AI features, enhanced hardware, and innovative design, sets a new standard for smartphone technology. The integration of the Gemini AI assistant, along with new AI-powered apps and camera enhancements, highlights Google’s commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence to improve user experience. Pre-orders for the Pixel 9 series are available now, with shipments starting in late August and early September.