Google introduced new artificial intelligence features for Android smartphones and other devices during Tuesday’s “Made by Google” event. The tech giant showcased its latest AI-powered products to enhance user experience across its flagship Pixel 9 series and other devices.
Pixel 9 series introduces advanced AI capabilities
The Pixel 9 series, Google’s latest addition to its smartphone lineup, was a key highlight of the event. These devices will have several AI-driven features, including Pixel Studio for AI-based image generation, the Pixel Screenshot app, and the Magic Editor. One of the most notable advancements is the Gemini AI assistant, which Google claims can answer complex questions independently without relying on third-party AI services. Industry observers have perceived this capability as a competitive move against Apple.
Additionally, Google announced that the Pixel 9 smartphones would be the first Android devices to offer satellite SOS functionality. This feature allows users to contact emergency services via satellite in areas without network coverage. Currently, this service is available only to users in the United States. Google also mentioned that these features would be extended to the Pixel 8 series, released last year.
Exclusive apps and features for pixel 9 users
The Pixel Screenshot app, exclusive to the Pixel 9 series, is designed to help users organize their screenshots more effectively. It allows users to save and recall screenshots with relevant information. The app also includes a feature that saves a link to the webpage from which the screenshot was taken, making it easier for users to reference the original content later. This backlinking capability is similar to Microsoft’s Recall feature, introduced with its Copilot AI.
Another significant announcement was the introduction of the Pixel Studio app, which enables users to generate images from text prompts using an on-device AI model. The app also includes built-in tools for editing these images, allowing users to add or remove elements. This functionality mirrors Apple’s Image Playground app, part of its AI suite.
The Magic Editor on the Pixel 9 smartphones has also been upgraded with a new feature called “Add Me,” which allows users to overlay their pictures on a group photo. This eliminates the need for a tripod or assistance from others to take a group picture.
Gemini AI assistant enhances user interaction
Google also highlighted the capabilities of its Gemini AI assistant during the event. Gemini Live, available for advanced subscribers on the Pixel 9 Pro without additional charges, enables users to engage in natural, free-flowing conversations with the AI. Google’s Android Ecosystem President, Sameer Samat, emphasized that the assistant has been rebuilt to understand user intent and follow conversations more intuitively.
Gemini is deeply integrated with Google apps and the Android platform, allowing it to handle complex queries without relying on third-party AI providers. This integration directly responds to Apple’s plans to incorporate OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its voice assistant, Siri.
The event also saw the debut of the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2, both equipped with Tensor A1 chips. The new Pixel Buds Pro 2 features enhanced active noise cancellation, which Google claims can block out twice as much noise as the previous model, including ambient sounds like traffic and background conversations.