Made by Google 2024: The Pixel 9 Lineup and Other Devices Unveiled at the Event
In this article, we talk about everything you need to know on the recent updates to Google Pixel devices
Following months of speculation and a few early leaks, Google has officially unveiled the much-anticipated Pixel 9 family at its just concluded "Made by Google" 2024 event.
Emmanuel Oyedeji
This year, Google surprised fans by debuting its Pixel lineup two months ahead of its usual schedule, revealing not just a few, but an entire ecosystem of devices including four new smartphones, two Pixel Watches, and a pair of Pixel Buds.
But the event wasn't just about phones. One particularly recurring theme throughout the event was Google's emphasis on AI. The company showcased how it has integrated Gemini, its advanced AI model, into the Pixel experience. From improved photography to enhanced voice assistance, Google has brought AI to the core of the new Pixel devices.
We have covered a full rundown of the major AI features coming to the Pixel experience in a separate article here.
However, in this article, we talk about everything you need to know on the hardware side. All the latest Pixel devices, their standout features, and their prices.
Pixel 9 Series
The Pixel 9 family introduces four new models into the Pixel smartphones segment, each offering something unique for different types of users. The lineup includes the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, the new Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Pixel 9:
The standard Pixel 9 comes with a 6.3-inch Actua display that’s 35% brighter than its predecessor, the Pixel 8 and is rated as the best display in its class. The camera system on the Pixel 9 is no slouch either, featuring the same main and ultrawide lenses found on its Pro counterparts, ensuring top-tier photography across the board. However, the selfie camera on the Pixel 9 takes a step down from the 48 MP of the pro phone to a 10.5 MP hardware.
Under the hood, however, the device features the same Tensor G4 chip, which Google claims has twice the processing power of the Tensor G3. This powers the advanced Gemini feature addition on the device.
The Pixel 9 retail price starts at $799 and will begin shipping on September 4th.
Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL
For the first time, Google has introduced two sizes for its Pro model: the Pixel 9 Pro with a 6.3-inch display and the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasting a 6.8-inch display for those seeking an even larger canvas. Both models feature super bright Super Actua displays of 2700nits, alongside a new 42 MP front camera designed to deliver sharper, brighter selfies—even in low light.
Additionally, the Pixel 9 Pro features 50MP main and 48MP ultrawide cameras that deliver exceptional image quality. The Pro model takes it a step further than the base Pixel 9 with the addition of a 48MP telephoto lens, enabling superior optical zoom and portrait photography.
Ultimately, beyond the difference in display size and battery size, the two Pro models share the same core specifications, including charging speed and a powerful Tensor G4 chip processor.
The Pixel 9 Pro will ship next month starting at $1,000, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL will start at $1,100.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Rounding out the hand-held devices lineup is the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google’s refreshed foldable. This iteration boasts a taller and thinner form factor compared to its predecessor. The device features a 6.3-inch outer display and an expansive 8-inch inner screen.
The Fold form factor features a fluid-friction hinge that easily opens fully flat with a satisfying snap so you can enjoy the big, bright Super Actua Flex display which Google claims is 80% brighter than the Pixel Fold.
The device also gets incredible camera quality like its smartphone counterparts with an upgrade to the ultrawide camera — which now supports Macro Focus — and both front cameras, which now support Face Unlock whether folded or unfolded. Similarly, it is also powered by the new Tensor G4 chip, featuring a Gemini Nano model that Google claims is "three times more sophisticated" than previous iterations.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold starts at $1,799 and will begin shipping on September 4th.
Google Pixel Watch 3
Google’s Pixel Watch 3 arrives in two sizes—41mm and a new 45mm option. The updated watch boasts thinner bezels, providing more screen real estate, and comes equipped with an ultra-wideband chip and a brighter display that can hit up to 2,000 nits. It also boasts more efficient displays, combined with Wear OS 5 and a power-efficient hybrid architecture that gives the devices a dependable all-day battery life.
On the software side, the watch features deeper integration with the Google and Pixel ecosystem that makes the Pixel Watch 3 an indispensable companion for daily life. One of the most interesting features is the Loss of Pulse Detection which gives it the ability to detect if the wearer’s pulse stops, automatically calling emergency services if no response is detected.
Additionally, the watch offers more insights and planning capabilities for your fitness activities. Other capabilities include being able to control your Google TV if you lose your remote, monitoring a live camera feed via Google Home, or transcribing notes with the new Pixel Recorder app, the Pixel Watch 3 is built to keep up with you.
In terms of pricing, the 41mm model starts at $349.99 with Bluetooth, while the 45mm version begins at $399.99. Both will be available on September 10th.
Pixel Buds Pro 2
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 comes in a lighter, smaller, and smarter form factor than ever before. The design features a small wing tip, larger grills, and a charging case with a small speaker.
Equipped with 11mm drivers and the new Tensor A1 chip, these earbuds are designed to deliver superior audio quality with enhanced active noise cancellation (ANC). Google claims the ANC is twice as effective as the previous generation, thanks to the A1 chip’s ultra-low latency audio processing, which adapts to your environment up to 3 million times per second.
The earbuds are also built for long-lasting use, offering up to 8 hours of playback with ANC enabled and up to 30 hours with the charging case. A quick 15-minute charge provides an additional 3 hours of battery life, ensuring you’re never without your music. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 will retail at $229 and start shipping on September 26th.
Conclusion
Google has once again raised the bar at this year's Made by Google event, blending cutting-edge technology with everyday practicality. The event wasn’t just about hardware—it was about showing how these devices work together in a seamlessly integrated ecosystem powered by advanced AI.
Image Credit: Google
