Due to a recent DOJ decision, Google’s lucrative relationship with Apple’s iPhone is in jeopardy, and that means the Pixel is even more important than ever to the company’s success. In 2024, it seems like the company will be leaning into AI. It’s got the Pixel 9 Pro with plenty of Gemini AI features, plus the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The company’s also launching a new Pixel Watch 3 as well as the Pixel Buds Pro 2.
We’re thrilled Google has adopted Qi2 charging in the Pixel 10 series, but were a bit confused by why only the 10 Pro XL got the faster new 25W speeds. Google gave Android Central the answer: it all comes down to cooling, where the larger XL has an edge.
Now that Google’s latest phones come with built-in Qi2 magnets, they can no longer serve as a wireless charging pad for other devices. Google confirmed this in a statement to Droidreader, saying the magnets present a “physical limitation for reverse wireless charging.”
Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the first foldable with an IP68 rating for dust- and water-resistance, and that might be all some people need to make the jump.
subotai01:
“For someone that has not bought a foldable yet, the IP68 certification is the tipping point. Time to get one.”
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Wired has a neat look inside Google’s Reliability Labs where Pixel designs are tested. There’s a gauntlet of durability challenges and an endearing concept called “Empathy Models,” which helps give designers a sense of what it’s like for people with different sized hands to use the devices. Now do one for trying to cram a phone into the tiny pockets of women’s clothing, Google.
Jimmy Fallon, a parade of influencers, and a live studio audience — this was not your typical product launch event.
Google’s head of devices and services said there have been “a lot of broken promises” when it comes to putting AI in phones, seemingly alluding to the delayed launch of Apple’s AI-upgraded Siri. “Gemini is the real deal,” Osterloh said.
He then launched into a laundry list of celebrity guests including Steph Curry, the Jonas Brothers, and more professional athletes who I have never heard of. Right now, Rick Osterloh is being interviewed like he’s a guest on the Late Show.
There’s a rare Dieter Bohn and Dan Seifert, plus a shiny Phil Esposito and an evolved Chris Welch. We’re being told to take our seats ahead of the Made By Google presentation.
There are a ton of new AI features and plenty of notable device upgrades, too.
It’s a complete overhaul of the Fitbit app, centered around the concept of adjustable, conversational coaching.
Dare I say it? Google has the wearable juice.
