From Android 15 to Pixel 9 series: What to expect at Google's August 14 event

Aug. 12, 2024, 4:24 a.m.

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The highly anticipated “Made by Google” event is just around the corner, scheduled for August 14. Among the highlights will be the introduction of Google’s latest Pixel 9 series smartphones, expected to be a significant update to the brand’s already popular lineup.

Launching in the Indian market on August 13, this new series has been generating excitement with its cutting-edge features and technology. The event is not just about smartphones; there are also speculations about updates related to Gemini AI, making this a must-watch for tech enthusiasts.

Advertisement A change in strategy is expected for the Pixel 9 series.

Google’s strategy for the Indian market seems to be undergoing a shift with the Pixel 9 series. Unlike last year, when Google launched both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro in India while skipping the Pixel Fold, the company appears to be taking a different approach this time.

Teasers on Flipkart, Google’s official retail partner in India, hint that only the top-tier models — Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold — might be introduced to the Indian market. This decision indicates a focus on premium devices, likely resulting in higher price points for consumers.

Those looking for a more budget-friendly option might have to turn their attention to older Pixel models. The shift could also be a result of Google’s recent move to manufacture Pixel smartphones in India, a strategy that might allow the company to offer these high-end devices at more competitive prices. This change is a noteworthy departure from the previous strategy and could signal Google’s intent to establish a stronger presence in India’s premium smartphone market.

Google Pixel 9

The Pixel 9 series will be powered by Google’s in-house Tensor G4 processor and is expected to be the first set of devices running on Android 15. These smartphones are anticipated to come with a host of new AI features, which is in line with Google’s ongoing efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into its products. While the design language remains consistent with previous models, subtle changes have been made to differentiate the Pixel 9 series from its predecessors.

Advertisement The Pixel 9 series is shaping up to be an exciting release, with several models expected to be unveiled. Among them is the standard Pixel 9, which, while not officially confirmed by Google, is widely anticipated to be part of the lineup. Given the numerous leaks surrounding this device, its absence at the event would be surprising.

The Pixel 9 is expected to boast a 6.24-inch, 120Hz OLED display, powered by a Tensor G4 chipset, 12GB of RAM, a dual-lens camera system, and a 4,558mAh battery. These advancements, while incremental, are anticipated to bring noticeable enhancements, particularly in terms of aesthetic design. The Pixel 9 is likely to sport a less curved profile compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 8, and could feature a redesigned camera module, making it a distinctive addition to the series.

Pixel 9 Pro: A New Flagship

The Pixel 9 Pro, confirmed for the event, is another model that tech enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting. Leaks suggest that this device will have a 6.3-inch screen, slightly smaller than the Pixel 8 Pro, which features a 6.7-inch display.

The Pixel 9 Pro is expected to come with a triple-lens camera setup, including wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses, all powered by the Tensor G4 chipset. The device might also offer 16GB of RAM, an upgrade from the 12GB found in the Pixel 8 Pro, and a minimum battery capacity of 4,558mAh. With AI features expected to be a significant part of its software package, the Pixel 9 Pro is likely to be a standout in Google’s 2024 lineup.

Pixel 9 Pro XL: A Larger Option

A new addition to the series could be the Pixel 9 Pro XL, a model that hasn’t been confirmed by Google but has been widely rumoured. If introduced, the Pixel 9 Pro XL would be similar in size to the Pixel 8 Pro, with a screen size ranging from 6.7 to 6.8 inches.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is expected to boast features similar to the Pixel 9 Pro, including the powerful Tensor G4 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a triple-camera system. This camera setup could include a 50MP primary sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The front camera might be upgraded to a 42MP sensor.

Should it become a reality, the Pixel 9 Pro XL could become the most premium Pixel 9 model, excluding any foldable variations.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold: The Foldable Option

Speaking of foldable phones, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is another highly anticipated release. Officially confirmed by Google, this device will follow the original Pixel Fold. Leaks suggest that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will have an 8-inch foldable screen and a 6.3-inch cover screen, making it larger than its predecessor.

Despite its size, the device is rumoured to be slimmer, a design choice that would make it more portable. Like other models in the series, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is expected to come with a triple-lens camera setup, the Tensor G4 chipset, and 16GB of RAM. This foldable device is likely to be a significant part of Google’s push into the foldable smartphone market.

Wearables & Audio

The August 14 event isn’t just about smartphones. Google is also expected to unveil new additions to its wearable lineup, including the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 3 XL.

The Pixel Watch 3 is rumored to feature the same Snapdragon Wear 5100 chipset as its predecessor, along with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. However, it could also have a brighter 2,000-nit screen, smaller bezels, and the addition of ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, which would enhance location tracking and close-range communication.

The Pixel Watch 3 XL is anticipated to be comparable, but with a larger 1.45-inch screen in comparison to the 1.2-inch display found on the Pixel Watch 3.

Another exciting product to be unveiled could be the Pixel Buds Pro 2. Although details are limited, leaked images suggest a slightly modified design compared to the original Pixel Buds Pro. The new iteration might also incorporate additional fitness features and AI tools, making them a multifaceted option for users.

Android 15

Android 15, although already in beta, is expected to be a significant part of the event. While it’s possible that the Pixel 9 series might ship with Android 14, Android 15 is likely to be mentioned, if not launched.

Gemini AI for Android

The event could also offer insights into Google's Gemini AI, particularly in relation to the new Pixel devices and Android 15. Whispers suggest that Gemini AI might introduce new functionalities such as adding people to group photos and analyzing fridge contents to suggest meal ideas. There could also be advancements in Gemini's abilities, such as fine-tuning of AI-generated images.