The Made by Google 2024 event has concluded, delivering a wide array of new product announcements and updates. This year’s event, held before Apple’s usual September iPhone reveal, focused heavily on AI integration across Google’s latest devices. Here’s a breakdown of all the major reveals, from the new Pixel 9 lineup to the integration of Gemini AI into Google’s ecosystem.
1. Pixel 9 Lineup: Enhanced Cameras and AI Features
The Pixel 9 series has expanded with three new models: the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL, alongside the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro are distinguished by camera improvements, with the 9 Pro XL offering a larger 6.8-inch display. All models come equipped with Gemini AI as the default assistant, marking the end of Google Assistant as the primary virtual helper on these devices. The Pixel 9 lineup promises better camera quality and enhanced hardware, making it a significant upgrade over previous generations.
2. Gemini Live: Google’s Conversational AI Goes Public
Google’s Gemini AI made a significant splash at the event, particularly with the introduction of Gemini Live. This feature, now available for Android users who are Google One AI Premium subscribers, allows for more natural, human-like conversations with AI. Gemini Live can handle extended back-and-forth interactions, thanks to its advanced generative AI model, Gemini 1.5 Pro, which boasts a longer context window than its competitors. This capability allows Gemini to process more data and provide more accurate responses, making it a strong contender in the AI assistant market.
3. Google’s Foldable Sequel: Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Google unveiled its second foldable phone, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which features a slightly larger 8-inch display when fully opened. The device is thinner and includes a larger external display, with camera upgrades in line with the rest of the Pixel 9 series. Priced at $1,799, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold continues Google’s push into the foldable market, integrating Gemini AI to enhance user experience.
4. New AI-powered Photo-Editing Tools
Building on last year’s introduction of the Magic Editor, Google announced several updates to its photo-editing tools for the Pixel 9 lineup. These include the ability to search through screenshots, generate AI-powered images with Pixel Studio, and auto-frame photos to keep subjects in focus. These enhancements are designed to make photo editing more intuitive and accessible directly on the device.
5. Pixel Watch 3: Bigger, Brighter, and More Versatile
The Pixel Watch 3 now comes in two sizes, with the addition of a 45mm model alongside the existing 41mm size. Both models feature larger displays with reduced bezels and twice the brightness of their predecessors. The Pixel Watch 3 also introduces a new health-focused feature: loss of pulse detection. This feature can detect when the heart stops beating due to events like cardiac arrest and automatically call emergency services, providing crucial location information.
6. Pixel Buds Pro 2: Now with Gemini Integration
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 was revealed, featuring the new Tensor A1 chip, which allows for a 27% reduction in size. These earbuds also come with Gemini Live integration, offering a more natural language experience for users. Priced at $229, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is designed to provide a more immersive audio experience with the added convenience of AI-powered features.
7. Nest Thermostats and Google TV Streamer Updates
Google also announced updates to its Nest Thermostat, marking its first refresh in nine years. The new model incorporates Gemini AI to enable more natural language interactions, while Google Assistant remains the primary assistant for smart home devices. Additionally, Google introduced the Google TV Streamer, which replaces the Chromecast line. This $100 device not only streams content but also serves as a smart home hub, integrating with Google Home and Matter-powered devices.
8. Pixel Weather App and More
This year’s Pixel lineup will also debut its own weather app, Pixel Weather, which is powered by AI. The app promises to offer customizable weather reports tailored to users’ preferences, along with the standard suite of forecasts. Additionally, Google introduced the “Made You Look” feature for foldable devices, designed to entertain or distract children during photo sessions, ensuring better smiles for family photos.
