Google’s annual hardware launch event, Made by Google 2024, unveiled the latest updates to the tech giant’s Pixel range. The highly anticipated event showcased not only new phones and earbuds, but also a groundbreaking update to Google’s smartwatch, the Pixel Watch.
The Pixel Watch now includes a new feature called Loss of Pulse Detection, which utilizes artificial intelligence to detect when the wearer’s pulse disappears. If no pulse is detected, the watch activates additional sensors to check for motion and pulse. If no response is received, the watch triggers an audio alarm and a 20-second countdown before automatically placing a call to emergency services, sharing the wearer’s location and critical signs. This is the first time such technology has been incorporated into a smartwatch and was developed in collaboration with cardiologists, health leaders, and A&E workers. It has been approved for use in several countries including the UK, Austria, Denmark, France, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland.
In addition to the groundbreaking update to the Pixel Watch, the entire Pixel phone range has received upgrades, with the exception of the recently released Pixel 8a. According to Pixel’s Vice President of Product Management Brian Rakowski, this is the biggest update to the Pixel family yet.
The new Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Fold all feature the powerful Google Tensor G4 chip, providing improved performance and the ability to handle new AI features within Google’s AI system, Gemini. Additionally, the phones boast better security measures. The Pixel 9 is priced between £799 and £899 and introduces a new feature called Add Me, which allows users to take a group photo and then seamlessly swap in the photographer. The phone also includes the Best Take feature, which combines photos to ensure everyone looks their best. The Pixel 9 Pro now comes in two sizes and boasts improved camera capabilities, with prices ranging from £999 to £1,449 depending on size and storage options. The Pixel Fold, Google’s flip phone, has also received upgrades, including brighter displays and better cameras.
While consumers consistently express a desire for improved battery life, the new Pixel range does not offer any groundbreaking innovations in this area. However, the Pixel 9 Pro can last up to 100 hours on Extreme Battery Saver mode. Another highlight of the updates is the integration of Google’s AI system, Gemini, which can assist with tasks such as document recall, note summarization, and photo editing. According to Google, users can even use Gemini to get answers to questions, such as how to care for a dying plant in their window.
The Pixel range will continue to receive updates and support for the next seven years, allowing users to keep their devices for longer. Google also unveiled the new Pixel Buds Pro 2, which are smaller and more powerful than their predecessors and feature improved noise-cancellation abilities. The earbuds also incorporate AI to automatically pause music and turn off noise-cancellation when the wearer starts speaking.
With these updates, Google is aiming to provide consumers with a range of highly advanced and innovative devices that integrate seamlessly with their daily lives.
