Google made significant strides in its ongoing battle with Apple during its recent Made by Google event in New York City. The tech giant unveiled two new Pixel phones, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, as well as its latest smartwatch, the Pixel Watch 2. By introducing these new products, Google aims to capture a larger market share in the smartphone industry and generate substantial revenue for parent company Alphabet.
The new Pixel 8 and 8 Pro boast several noteworthy design and display enhancements compared to their predecessors. With rounder corners and a flatter display, these phones offer a sleeker and more modern aesthetic. The entry-level Pixel 8 also features a superior screen with refresh speeds comparable to Apple’s flagship models, ensuring smoother scrolling and improved gaming experiences.
Both the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are powered by Google’s new Tensor G3 chip. This in-house chip enables the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities into various phone functionalities, particularly the camera. For instance, the Pixel 8 Pro introduces AI-powered editing tools, including the popular Magic Eraser for removing unwanted images in photos. Additionally, a new photo tool called Best Take combines similar group photos to create a single shot where everyone is looking at the camera and smiling.
Google has also made notable improvements to its photography and audio features. The Pixel 8 Pro now includes an updated Real Tone photography feature, providing more accurate representation of different skin tones. Moreover, the Audio Magic Eraser functionality enables users to remove unwanted sounds from videos. This feature proves useful in scenarios where background noises may distract from the main audio focus.
One intriguing addition to the Pixel 8 Pro is its built-in thermometer. While primarily marketed as a tool to measure beverage and cookware temperatures, its potential uses beyond this application remain unclear. Nonetheless, it showcases Google’s commitment to introducing innovative and unexpected features in its products.
The Pixel 8 and 8 Pro claim the title of being the first smartphones to launch with Android 14 out of the box. This latest Android version offers an array of updates and improvements to enhance user experience. Alongside these phones, Google unveiled its Pixel Watch 2, incorporating the Fitbit platform that Alphabet acquired in 2021. An intriguing feature of the watch is stress tracking, which collects data such as heart rate variability and skin temperature to detect periods of increased pressure and provide helpful suggestions, such as going for a walk or trying a guided breathing exercise.
Starting at $699 for the Pixel 8 and $999 for the Pixel 8 Pro, these new phones represent a price increase compared to last year’s models. While still relatively affordable, Google faces fierce competition from Apple’s iPhone lineup. The Pixel Watch 2, priced at $349, seeks to establish itself as a strong contender in the smartwatch market.
Google’s new Pixel phones and smartwatch demonstrate the company’s commitment to technological innovation and its determination to challenge Apple’s dominance. With improvements in design, display, camera capabilities, and unique features, these products offer an enticing package for consumers. As Google continues to refine its hardware business, it aims to capitalize on its growing market share and provide significant revenue for Alphabet in the future.
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