Google's Pixel Event: Innovations to Compete with Apple
Written on
Chapter 1: Overview of Google's New Devices
In a recent showcase, Google unveiled four new products: the Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel Watch, and Pixel Tablet. Just as the excitement from the iPhone 14 launch begins to fade, we find ourselves intrigued by the impressive lineup from Google. Personally, I'm a big admirer of the Pixel series. The Pixel 4a and Pixel 6a stand out as exceptional budget-friendly smartphones, especially known for their outstanding camera quality.
While I've yet to experience a Pixel Pro device, nor have I tried a Google smartwatch or tablet, I anticipate sharing my insights about these gadgets on my YouTube channel next week. For now, here are my reflections on the announcements made yesterday.
Google's presentation style differs significantly from Apple's. Gone is the Hollywood flair, replaced by a straightforward, traditional presentation style reminiscent of Apple’s earlier events. This authenticity was refreshing; the presenters, while perhaps less polished than Apple's executives, infused humor into the proceedings, often aimed at the tech giant from Cupertino.
One notable moment was their mention of car crash detection, which has been available on Pixel devices for three years. A subtle jab at Tim Cook, perhaps?
The event emphasized the new capabilities of the Tensor G2 chip, Google's commitment to privacy by design (both new phones come with a built-in VPN), and a fresh approach to personalization for Pixel devices.
The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro — Distinct Yet Familiar
This year, Google has opted for a two-tiered approach to its smartphones, offering the standard Pixel 7 and the more advanced Pixel 7 Pro. I appreciate this clear distinction, avoiding the confusion often seen in Apple’s lineup.
The Pixel 7 features a satin metal finish, while the Pixel 7 Pro sports a polished metal look, giving it a flagship allure. Pricing is set at $599 for the Pixel 7 and $899 for the Pro, which I find reasonable.
Differences also extend to display size and refresh rates—the Pixel 7 Pro boasts a larger screen with a variable refresh rate, while the Pixel 7 is capped at 90Hz. Both devices share the same Tensor G2 chip and come in pleasing, muted colors.
Smarter Features Powered by Tensor G2
The Tensor G2 chip is central to the enhanced capabilities of the new Pixel devices. Google has highlighted its strengths in machine learning, which contribute to significant improvements in voice assistance, live translation, and call handling.
One standout feature is the front-facing camera, which can assist visually impaired users in capturing selfies. This is a groundbreaking addition that I haven't seen on other smartphones.
Interestingly, Google dedicated a significant portion of the event to discussing phone call features, making the Pixel 7 series the first to highlight improvements in call handling. Their claim that these devices excel in calling is backed by enhancements in call screening and navigating automated menus, thanks to the machine learning capabilities of the Tensor G2.
The Software-Driven Camera Experience
Unlike Apple, Google focuses less on the hardware specs of its smartphone cameras. While the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro come equipped with improved lenses, the real magic lies in the software.
The Pixel 7 series offers enhanced zoom capabilities and improved video features. Furthermore, with Google Photos, the devices can enhance blurry images taken with other cameras through advanced algorithms.
The zoom technology will require real-world testing, but initial impressions suggest that the Pixel 7 can achieve impressive quality even at higher zoom levels. The phones also introduce a cinematic mode and support for 10-bit HDR video.
I'm excited to travel to London next week to test these features and share my findings.
Introducing the Pixel Watch
The much-anticipated Pixel Watch has finally been unveiled, featuring customizable bands and all-day battery life. While specific details remain under wraps, the collaboration with Fitbit emphasizes health and wellness tracking.
The Pixel Watch continuously monitors heart rate, allowing users to gain insights into their fitness levels and bodily responses during rest. Additionally, fall detection will be introduced in 2023, and every purchase includes six months of Fitbit Premium at no extra cost. With prices starting at $349 for Wi-Fi and $399 for cellular, it poses a strong challenge to the Apple Watch.
I look forward to providing a more thorough review next week, but the health-centric design could resonate well within the Google Pixel ecosystem.
Rethinking the Tablet Experience
Lastly, Google offered a glimpse of the upcoming Pixel Tablet. While specifications weren't disclosed, the device is touted as the purest Android experience on a tablet yet.
The Pixel Tablet may resemble a typical Android tablet, but it introduces an innovative concept by pairing it with a speaker dock, transforming it into a Google Nest Hub. This could redefine how users interact with tablets, addressing concerns about their limited utility.
I plan to incorporate the Pixel Tablet into my studio setup next year and am eager to see how it changes my perception of tablet use.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on yesterday's Pixel event—feel free to share in the comments!
Before you go
If you enjoy my writing, consider joining my behind-the-scenes mailing list. I'm a paying member of Medium and highly recommend it. By joining through my link, a portion of your membership fee supports my work!
The first video titled "Transfer From Android to iPhone! - Frustration & Solutions!" discusses the challenges and solutions involved in migrating from Android to iPhone.
The second video titled "Switching from iOS to Android - What They Don't Tell You!" explores the hidden aspects and tips for transitioning from iOS to Android.