The Made by Google 2024 event has officially concluded, and after a whirlwind of speculation leading up to it, we now have a complete overview of announcements from Google’s most significant hardware showcase of the year. This year's event precedes Apple’s traditional September iPhone launch and emphasizes AI—an area that has become increasingly familiar to tech enthusiasts over the past few years.
Although the event has wrapped by the time you read this, you can catch up on all the action through the livestream archive available here, which began at 10 a.m. PT. Let’s explore the exciting features of the Google Pixel 9 lineup, how Google’s Gemini AI will be integrated into the devices, and other updates regarding the Nest, Pixel Watch, and Pixel Buds.
Our Initial Thoughts on Gemini Live
Maxwell Zeff, our tech expert, attended the Made by Google event and encapsulated his impressions of Google’s highlight reveal with the assessment: "Better than talking to Siri, but not quite where I’d want it to be."
For a deeper dive into his thoughts, check out his full review here. In brief, Gemini Live showcased swift responses but encountered a few hiccups, including fabricating a nearby playground during one of its responses.
AI Highlights You Might've Missed
As is the trend with major tech events, Made by Google featured an array of AI innovations and announcements. Given the sheer volume, some updates may have flown under your radar. Discover details about new features like Pixel Studio, an image generation app, and Call Notes, which summarizes conversations.
Gemini Live Demos: A Mixed Bag
While live demonstrations are not always a certainty at tech events, Google promised to debut numerous live showcases of Gemini AI’s latest features during the event. Although the initial demo faced some challenges with a prompt about Sabrina Carpenter, later demonstrations on writing emails, creating playlists, and brainstorming ideas ran smoothly.
Gemini Live Now Available for Android Users
Google has launched Gemini Live, its answer to OpenAI’s Advanced Voice Mode, but it's exclusive to Google One AI Premium subscribers. Gemini Live enables users to engage in conversational exchanges with the AI that mimic human interactions more closely. As highlighted by our AI specialist Kyle Wiggers, Gemini’s success lies in its innovative architecture. The Gemini 1.5 Pro model features an extended context window, allowing for intricate conversations before formulating a response.
Pixel 9 Lineup: Enhanced Cameras and Built-in Gemini AI
The Google Pixel 9 lineup now includes three models and introduces the Pixel 9 Fold Pro. The Pixel 9 Pro boasts a higher resolution compared to the standard Pixel 9, while the new Pixel 9 Pro XL has a larger 6.8-inch display, each integrating Gemini as the primary assistant. As previously announced, Assistant will no longer serve as the default virtual assistant on these devices, paired with upgraded hardware and camera systems that you can explore in detail here.
Introducing Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Google’s latest foldable phone, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, features a slightly larger 8-inch display when opened. It is thinner than its predecessor, sporting an enhanced external display and improved camera features in line with the new Pixel 9 range. However, it comes with a premium price tag of $1,799, and yes, it will also feature Gemini as its assistant. Unveil more about the Fold here.
New AI-Driven Photo Editing Tools
After the successful launch of the Magic Editor last year, Google announced a variety of updates for its photo editing suite available on the Pixel 9 series. Users can now search through their screenshots, utilize Pixel Studio for AI-generated images, and benefit from an auto-framing feature that optimizes images by focusing on the subject. Get the full details on these AI enhancements here.
Pixel Watch 3: More Choices
This year's Pixel Watch lineup expands from a single 41 mm model to include a new 45 mm version. Both models offer larger displays, enhanced brightness, and other AI functionalities, although pricing and availability details remain under wraps.
Introducing ‘Pulse Detection’ Feature on Pixel Watch 3
A significant health advancement for the Pixel Watch is the new “loss of pulse” detection feature. This capability can recognize when a heart stops beating effectively due to serious medical events, triggering an emergency call that relays the user’s location. For a comprehensive look at this feature, explore more here.
Pixel Buds Pro 2: Powered by Gemini
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 aim to enhance voice assistant functionality by incorporating Gemini Live. Featuring a new Tensor A1 chip, these earbuds are 27% smaller, improving comfort and portability. Learn more about the Pixel Buds Pro 2, priced at $229, here.
Engaging Kids for Better Photos with Made You Look
To help capture better family photos, Google's Made You Look feature uses the front-facing camera of foldable devices to capture children’s attention. Initially, it will display visually captivating content, with plans to include beloved characters like Joy from Pixar's “Inside Out” in future updates.
New Pixel Weather App Launches
The 2024 Pixel lineup introduces a dedicated weather app featuring AI capabilities. The app allows personalization to display desired weather information along with standard forecasts and AI-driven insights. Discover more about the app's initial features here.
Nest Thermostat Gets a Significant Update
Before the Made by Google event, an update to the Nest Learning Thermostat was announced, marking its first refresh in nine years. This new model incorporates Gemini AI to enable more conversational interactions, while Google Assistant continues to assist smart home devices.
Goodbye Chromecast, Hello Google TV Streamer
The Chromecast brand officially comes to a close, replaced by the newly announced Google TV Streamer, which offers functionality beyond streaming to act as a smart home hub for Google Home and Matter devices. Learn more about the new $100 hub here.
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