Google is set to host its next major hardware event on August 13th at 10 AM (Pacific Time), which is approximately two months earlier than the typical mid-fall "Made by Google" event. Notably, Google will announce its latest flagship product, the Pixel 9, ahead of Apple's iPhone 16.
Google has not provided an explanation for this reshuffle. Perhaps, with less than a month to go before the most bizarre presidential election in American modern history, things might get too chaotic. Meanwhile, Google certainly has a lot to discuss about Gemini. These new devices are almost certain to debut key new generative AI features before any other Android devices.
Image courtesy of Google
Google has upheld a tradition this year by revealing devices before the event. This move inevitably sapped some attention ahead of the big event but has proven to be an effective way to generate excitement during the summer's consumer electronics lull. Earlier this week, Google showcased two new devices: the Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel 9 Fold, the most premium offerings in the series.
Both the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Fold are branded with the slogan "built for the Gemini era (foldable phone)," setting the stage for a series of AI-themed tech events. Gemini took center stage at Google I/O in May, although this developer-focused event was more about laying the groundwork for the company's AI ambitions.
In fact, Google has consciously differentiated its consumer hardware products from its developer conferences, announcing the budget-focused Pixel 8a a few days before the event. Notably, the most compelling consumer-facing Android AI features this year did not debut first on Pixel devices. Circle to Search made its debut on the Samsung Galaxy S24 in January.
Android 15: New Features and UI Adjustments
The latest beta of Android 14 (Beta 4) was just released last week. While I/O previewed some features, you'll need to wait until the August 13th event to see the final release. The latest version of this mobile operating system, codenamed "Vanilla Ice Cream" (those cute dessert names are still used internally), will bring new features and user interface adjustments.
Already announced major features include improved multitasking and satellite connectivity. Meanwhile, Private Space is an on-device stealth mode that brings additional authentication requirements for sensitive information. The improved Doze mode should enhance device battery life.
The Future of Google Assistant
The fate of Google Assistant has been a lingering question in the past few Gemini updates. Clearly, Google ultimately wants its own GenAI to take over the most pressing tasks on Android, but it's unclear whether this means a direct replacement of Assistant, or an enhancement like Apple does with Siri.
Users can currently set Gemini as their primary assistant (if they choose), although Google has ultimately done the right thing by not directly replacing Assistant.
Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2
The smart home category may have cooled down, but since acquiring Fitbit in 2020, Google has been very bullish on wearables. The Pixel Watch 3 seems destined to get some spotlight at the August 13th event. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are also expected to make an appearance.
"Made by Google" event will commence on August 13th at 10 AM (Pacific Time). Stay tuned for more information.