Alphabet’s Google made a significant stride in consumer technology with the launch of the Pixel 8 smartphones and an upgraded smartwatch, solidifying their integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology into their consumer gadgets.
Google’s Pixel smartphones, while having a fraction of Apple’s iPhone sales, are renowned for showcasing the innovative potential of Android products. Popular among photography enthusiasts and users who prefer Android gadgets in their purest form, Pixels are designed to push the limits of available technology.
The Pixel lineup was bolstered with Google’s latest mobile processor, Tensor G3, a custom chip boasting enhanced AI and machine learning capabilities. This empowers users to process more data directly on the device and in the cloud, extending the scope of possibilities. AI features embedded within these devices offer assistance in photography, summarizing web content, and blocking spam calls, enhancing user experiences.
The Pixel 8 Pro, positioned as the high-end model, incorporates a Thermometer app for measuring body temperature, pending approval from the Food and Drug Administration.
Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 8 will receive seven years of software updates, including Android OS upgrades, security updates and regular Feature Drops, says Brian Rakowski, VP, Product Management at Google, in a blog post.
The starting prices for the Pixel 8 and Pixel Pro 8 are set at $699 and $999 respectively, an increase of $100 compared to previous generation models. Consumers can purchase these cutting-edge devices starting from October 12, 2023.
Customers can pre-order Pixel 8 smartphone today starting at $699 and Pixel 8 Pro for a starting price of $999. If customers pre-order a Pixel 8 Pro, they will get a Pixel Watch 2. Customers can also pre-order the new Pixel phones on Google Fi Wireless and get their best deals yet.
“Google was clearly focused on driving the mobile AI message in today’s event, and having AI on the device/client will be a big topic for the industry going forward,” noted IDC analyst Ryan Reith. “If supported by strong marketing, Google could drive higher market share with this lineup, specifically in the U.S.”
In response to Apple’s recent iPhone 15 release, which showcased a titanium shell, faster chip, and improved gaming capabilities without a price increase, Google is positioning its Pixel series to compete in the global smartphone market, Reuters news report said.
Currently ranking 12th globally in terms of shipments with a 0.9 percent share, according to IDC, the recent updates to the Pixel phones aim to make them more appealing to holiday-season shoppers. Notably, the United States is the largest market, accounting for approximately 39 percent of Pixel’s worldwide shipments, followed by Japan at 29 percent and the UK at 9 percent.
In addition to the Pixel smartphone updates, Google announced plans to integrate generative AI capabilities into its virtual assistant, broadening its functionality to help users plan trips, manage emails, and engage in insightful conversations.
Accompanying the smartphone launch, Google also introduced the Google Watch 2, an upgraded version of the initial smartwatch launched in October 2022, starting at $349. This iteration features a digital crown and advanced health tracking features powered by AI, signaling a more refined approach to wearable technology.
