Google just had their "Made By Google" event, where they unveiled their latest innovations. The keynote was packed with exciting updates, including the highly anticipated Pixel 8, the sleek Pixel Watch 2, and a host of other impressive offerings.
Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
Google's latest smartphone offerings, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, have made their debut, promising speed, security, and advanced camera technology infused with Google's AI.
In terms of size, the Pixel 8 boasts a 6.1-inch display, just slightly smaller than its predecessor. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 Pro maintains its 6.8-inch screen. The Pixel 8 maintains a resolution of 1080 x 2400, while the Pixel 8 Pro registers a density of 489 ppi at 1344 x 2992, down from its predecessor's 512 ppi. Both screens dazzle with a remarkable peak brightness of 2,000 nits and offer a swift 120Hz refresh rate.
Pricing for these cutting-edge devices begins at $699 for the Pixel 8 and $999 for the Pixel 8 Pro.
The Google Pixel 8 Pro introduces a host of improvements, including upgrades to the display and the use of Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
The camera system has a 50-megapixel main wide camera with a focal length equivalent to 24mm in classic film camera terms. This ensures sharp and detailed shots in various scenarios. Additionally, it offers a 2x "Optical Quality" mode for enhanced image clarity, and Google has introduced the Super Res Zoom digital computational telephoto mode, enabling impressive zoom capabilities of up to 8x. These camera enhancements promise to deliver exceptional photography experiences for users.
Speaking of photography, two standout features include Magic Editor, which facilitates background replacement and subject repositioning, and Best Take, which amalgamates multiple shots to produce the ultimate group photograph.
Excitingly, the Pixel 8 Pro is set to be the pioneer in running Google's generative AI models on-device, showcasing Google's commitment to innovative AI integration.
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro bring a blend of evolutionary and revolutionary features to the table, making them intriguing options for smartphone aficionados seeking a balance of cutting-edge tech and creative photography capabilities.
Pixel Watch 2
Following its debut last year, Google's inaugural smartwatch is receiving a notable revamp. Noteworthy enhancements include a significant upgrade in heart rate monitoring capabilities and the introduction of two novel sensors, aimed at providing a more comprehensive understanding of the user.
Additionally, the incorporation of a body-response sensor and skin temperature sensor, inspired by Fitbit technology, introduces innovative stress management features to the smartwatch, elevating its functionality and user experience.
Pixel Buds Pro
Google's refreshed Pixel Buds Pro come packed with an array of compelling features. These include a conversation detection feature similar to Apple's AirPods conversation awareness, detailed listening statistics, and compatibility with Bluetooth Super Wideband for elevated call sound quality.
Leveraging AI capabilities, the earbuds can discern when you begin speaking, swiftly shifting to transparency mode to minimize background noise. Once your conversation concludes, the music resumes, and the buds seamlessly revert to active noise cancellation mode, ensuring an uninterrupted listening experience.
Android 14
Android 14, the latest iteration of the mobile operating system, introduces an array of fresh features and customization options. The rollout commences with Pixel devices and later extends to other Android devices. Notable highlights encompass swift wallpaper switching for at-a-glance changes and effortless setup of custom lock screen shortcuts. Innovative lock screen templates, spanning fonts, widgets, colors, and formats, offer enhanced personalization. Leveraging AI, the lock screen adapts to your current context, like emphasizing the weather widget during inclement conditions.
Shifting focus to Google Assistant, it receives a robust AI-powered upgrade known as Assistant with Bard. This amalgamation of Google Assistant and Bard enhances its capacity to handle a wider array of questions and tasks, from routine inquiries to more sophisticated interactions powered by Google's Bard AI.
Additionally, the Call Screen feature receives a substantial enhancement, empowering users to better discern which calls to accept or skip. Impressively, AI can now answer calls convincingly on behalf of users and significantly reduces spam call occurrences, with claims of a 50% decrease in unwanted calls. The feature has grown smarter, proficiently distinguishing desired calls from undesired ones.
