Google Unveils New AI-Integrated Pixel Smartphones Ahead of Apple's iPhone Launch
On August 13, Alphabet’s Google introduced its latest lineup of Pixel smartphones, showcasing deeper artificial intelligence (AI) integrations. This launch, held at the Bay View campus in Mountain View, California, marks a shift from Google’s usual pattern of releasing Pixel updates in the autumn, a tradition since the Pixel's debut in October 2016.
The decision to unveil these devices earlier than usual is seen as Google's strategic move to stay competitive in the AI race, particularly as rivals like Apple prepare to introduce their own AI-enhanced products. Apple has already hinted at upcoming generative AI features within its devices, including the new iPhones, with “Apple Intelligence” and a partnership with ChatGPT, the AI chatbot developed by OpenAI.
“We’ve witnessed a surge of AI developments recently. It’s crucial for Google not to delay,” commented IDC analyst Linn Huang.
The newly announced Pixel smartphones include exclusive AI features, such as a tool that allows users to search for information directly from screenshots. Additionally, Android users can now access Google’s chatbot, Gemini, as an overlay on other apps for content generation or question-answering tasks.
“We’ve seen countless AI promises, but now it’s time to deliver practical applications,” said Rick Osterloh, Google’s Senior Vice President of Devices and Services. “We’re fully embracing the Gemini era.”
The event featured live demonstrations of Gemini's capabilities, including a voice conversation feature. However, an attempt to use Gemini for cross-referencing a concert poster with the calendar app required multiple attempts and devices.
The Pixel 9, featuring a 6.3-inch display, will start at $799, $100 more than its predecessor. It, along with the 6.8-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL, will be available for shipping later in August. The Pixel 9 Pro, which boasts enhanced camera features, and the foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold, will be available in September.
Preorders for these new devices began on August 13.
Google currently holds less than 1% of the global smartphone market share, significantly trailing behind industry leaders like Samsung and Apple, which hold 18.9% and 15.8% of the market, respectively, according to IDC data from the second quarter of 2024. In the U.S., Google ranks fourth with a 4.5% market share.
Despite this, the Pixel series has allowed Google to demonstrate technological advancements and encourage innovation within the Android ecosystem, used by manufacturers like Samsung. Android remains a key battleground as Google competes to integrate AI into consumer products. Earlier in May, Google introduced several AI-driven enhancements to its core offerings, including its search engine.
The latest Pixel models feature a redesigned exterior, upgraded cameras, and Google’s new Tensor G4 chip.
Google also announced updates to its other devices on August 13, including the Pixel Watch 3 smartwatch and Pixel Buds Pro 2 wireless earbuds.