Google is making bold power plays in tech as it sets its sights on artificial intelligence. The company’s recent Made by Google event is more than just a showcase for new technology — it represents a strategic move to dominate the AI playing field.
As rivals such as Apple prepare to make announcements of their own, Google is grabbing the spotlight as it unveils a slew of innovations that it hopes will transform and become part of our everyday lives. The focus is on making our devices smarter and improving our experiences through what Google considers to be transformative advancements.
Curious to see what’s next from Google? Here are 10 key highlights from the event you need to know.
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Gemini AI on Pixel (Google)
1. Gemini AI Integration
A major highlight of the event was the integration of Gemini AI across devices. One of its features, Gemini Live, provides advanced conversational capabilities to enable more natural, human-like interactions. The Gemini Advanced experience is available through Google One subscriptions and enhances the user experience for tasks such as planning an event or brainstorming ideas.
Gemini’s integration goes beyond the basics, providing deep connections with a wide range of Google apps and services. From drafting emails to creating project plans, Gemini works seamlessly across platforms.
Additionally, Gemini’s multimodal capabilities allow it to handle text, audio, and video, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of tasks. The new Gemini feature is available on both Android and iOS.
Gemini AI Features (Google)
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2. Pixel Studio and Call Notes
Google also announced Pixel Studio, an image generation app that leverages AI to create compelling visuals from simple prompts. The tool is designed to make it easy to generate professional-quality images for a variety of purposes, from social media posts to marketing materials. To illustrate its capabilities, consider the following example: “A small white and brown Chihuahua is enjoying a bulldog stick at home.” This prompt shows how Gemini AI generates vivid images and context.
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Pixel Studio App (Google)
Additionally, the company also announced Call Notes, a feature that provides a summary of call conversations. The tool uses AI to transcribe and summarize the key points of a call, making it easy to keep track of important information and follow up on action items. It works for calls that are at least 30 seconds long.
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3. Pixel 9 series announcement
Google also unveiled its Pixel 9 lineup, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The devices are powered by the new Tensor G4 chip, which promises improved performance and AI capabilities. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL feature a 42MP front camera for clearer selfies. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is Google’s second entry into the foldable smartphone market, offering a unique combination of innovation and practicality.
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Pixel 9 Pro Foldable (Google)
The Pixel 9 series also features a sleek design with a sculpted camera bar and premium finishes like a silky matte glass back and polished metal sides. The Pro models come in two sizes, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL sporting a larger 6.8-inch display. This redesign not only improves aesthetics, but also the ergonomic feel of the device.
The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL will be available for pre-order and in stores from August 22nd, while the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold will be available from September 4th.
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4. Android 15 and AI tools
Google unveiled Android 15 with new AI tools branded as “Google AI”. Features like “Add Me” for group photos and “Pixel Screenshots” for information search were introduced along with enhanced security measures. These tools demonstrate Google’s commitment to integrating AI into the operating system to provide a smarter and more intuitive experience.
Pixel screenshot feature (Google)
5. Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2
Google also unveiled the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2, showcasing the company’s commitment to building a seamless ecosystem of interconnected devices. The Pixel Watch 3 now offers enhanced battery life, with up to 36 hours of use thanks to a new battery saver mode and tighter integration with Pixel devices, making it more efficient and user-friendly.
Meanwhile, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 have been introduced with a new Tensor A1 chip, which reduces the size by 27% and incorporates Gemini AI for better natural language interaction.
Pixel Buzz Pro 2 (Google)
6. Google Photos gets a boost with Magic Editor and Best Take features
Google announced new features for Google Photos including Magic Editor, which lets you make complex edits like moving objects or changing backgrounds with just a tap or gesture. It uses generative AI to make contextual suggestions to help you create visually appealing images without requiring advanced editing skills.
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Additionally, Google introduced Best Take, a feature that helps you capture the perfect group photo by blending multiple shots to show everyone’s best expression. Google hopes that these updates, which integrate advanced AI tools into Google Photos, will make photo editing more intuitive and accessible to everyone.
People using the Best Take feature (Google)
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7. Update your Nest Thermostat
The Nest Learning Thermostat has received its first major update in nine years, incorporating Gemini AI for more natural interactions. The update aims to revitalize the smart home category by enabling more intuitive control and energy efficiency, in line with Google’s vision for the connected home.
Nest Learning Thermostat (Google)
8. Launch of Google TV Streamer
The Chromecast line has been replaced by the Google TV Streamer, which, thanks to a Gemini-powered upgrade, acts as a smart home hub. The new device supports 4K streaming and smart home control, enhancing the entertainment experience and further integrating Google’s AI technology into the home environment.
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Google TV Streamer (Google)
9. Focus on privacy and security
Google’s business model relies heavily on data collection, and it has come under scrutiny for privacy violations and data handling practices. Incognito mode With the introduction of automatic data deletion, Google faces the following challenges: Data leaks Issues with tracking user location.
In response to these ongoing concerns, Google has emphasized privacy and security in recent updates, particularly with the introduction of new AI tools and Android 15. Features like Private Space and Theft Detection Lock are intended to give users peace of mind about the safety of their data while still enjoying the benefits of advanced technology. This focus on privacy and security is part of Google’s broader strategy to address past criticism and build trust with its users.
Private Spacea secure environment in Android 15, allows users to isolate sensitive apps and data, like health trackers or banking apps, from the rest of the device. It acts like a separate user account that can only be accessed through additional authentication, providing an extra layer of security and privacy for sensitive information.
Theft Detection LockAndroid’s Enhanced Factory Reset Protection, helps prevent stolen devices from being reset and reused without the owner’s credentials. This feature makes it harder for thieves to sell stolen devices, as the phone cannot be accessed or reset without the necessary Google account information.
10. Strategic timing before Apple
The timing of the event, ahead of Apple’s iPhone launch in September, signals a strategic move by Google to capture market attention ahead of the competitive holiday season and showcase advances in AI and hardware. The approach underscores Google’s confidence in its products and its desire to lead the market with innovation.
Important points about the cart
It’s clear that Google has made great strides in the AI space, establishing itself as a formidable rival to Apple. With innovations like Gemini AI, the Pixel 9 series, and enhanced features in Google Photos, the tech giant is not just keeping up, but actively changing how we interact with technology in our daily lives. As Google continues to roll out these advancements, it will be interesting to see how Apple responds and what the future holds for both companies in a rapidly evolving AI landscape.
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