In a break from tradition, Google’s latest event at Alphabet’s Bay View campus in Mountain View showcased the new Pixel 9 series, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. This marks a departure from Google’s usual autumn unveiling of new Pixel smartphones, a practice they’ve followed since the Pixel’s debut in 2016. For those interested in the latest in AI-powered gadgets, check out the new Google Pixel 9 lineup and more details on pricing and specifications in India.
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Google’s Early Pixel 9 Launch: A Strategic Move to Compete with Apple’s Upcoming iPhone
Google’s shift in timing for the Pixel 9 series launch is part of its strategy to stay competitive by integrating cutting-edge AI features into its devices. This move comes just ahead of Apple’s anticipated iPhone release in September.
In June, Apple revealed that its latest iPhones and other devices will receive significant upgrades featuring “Apple Intelligence,” which includes a range of generative AI-powered functionalities within native apps. Additionally, Apple plans to integrate ChatGPT, the AI chatbot developed by Microsoft-backed OpenAI, into its ecosystem.
IDC analyst Linn Huang noted, “We’ve seen a lot of AI announcements in a short burst of time as of late. I don’t think you want to sit on it too long if you’re Google.”
Google Announces New AI Features: Pixel-Exclusive Screenshot Search and Gemini Chatbot Integration
New AI integrations announced on Tuesday include a Pixel-exclusive feature that allows users to search for information within screenshots. Additionally, Android users can now access Gemini, Google’s chatbot, as an overlay on top of other apps to answer questions or generate content.
Rick Osterloh, Google’s Senior Vice President of Devices and Services, stated, “There have been so many promises, so many coming soons, and not enough real-world helpfulness when it comes to AI, which is why today we’re getting real. We’re fully in the Gemini era.” Employees demonstrated several new Gemini functions, including a voice conversation feature. However, an attempt to use Gemini to cross-reference a concert poster with the calendar app required three tries and two devices to work successfully.
Pixel 9 Series Pricing and Shipping Dates: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pro, and Pro Fold Details
The Pixel 9, featuring a 6.3-inch display, will start at $799—$100 more than its predecessor. This model and the 6.8-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL are set to begin shipping later in August, according to a company spokesperson. The Pixel 9 Pro, which includes enhanced features like a superior camera, along with the foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold, will ship in September. Preorders for these new gadgets opened on Tuesday.
Google’s Smartphone Market Share and Strategic Focus: Pixel Line Advances and New Releases
As of Q2 2024, Google holds less than 1% of the global smartphone market share, according to IDC. This is a significant distance behind Samsung’s 18.9% and Apple’s 15.8%. Google’s smaller market presence is partly due to its entry into fewer markets and its focus on higher-end price segments.
In the U.S., Google holds a 4.5% market share, making it the fourth-largest smartphone maker. Despite its smaller market share, the Pixel line allows Google to showcase technological advancements and support the developer ecosystem around its Android operating system, used by manufacturers like Samsung. Android is a key battleground for Google’s AI integration efforts, following the rollout of significant upgrades to its search engine in May.
In addition to new Pixel phones, Google also announced updates to its smartwatch and earbuds, with the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 unveiled on Tuesday.