Google Launches New Pixel 8 Smartphone and AI Smartwatch

JAKARTA - Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet, on Wednesday 4 October launched the new Pixel 8 smartphone and smartwatch which integrates artificial intelligence (AI) technology more deeply into the company's main consumer products.

Updates to Pixel phones - which are popular among photography enthusiasts and consumers who prefer a pure Android experience - could make them more attractive to buyers planning purchases during the holiday season.

Google is strengthening its Pixel product line with its newest mobile processor, the Tensor G3, which brings several machine learning and generative AI models natively to the device.

This will help users access new AI features such as for photography, summarizing web pages and blocking spam calls, executives said at a Made by Google event on Wednesday.

The Pixel 8 starts at 699 US dollars (IDR 10 million) and the Pixel 8 Pro starts at 999 US dollars (15.5 million)- up 100 US dollars (IDR 1.56 million) from the previous generation model. They will be available starting October 12th.

"Google clearly focused on getting the mobile AI message across in today's event and the presence of AI on devices will be a big topic for the industry going forward," IDC analyst Ryan Reith said, quoted by Reuters.

"If supported by strong marketing, Google can increase its market share even higher with this product line, especially in the United States," he added.

Google also announced plans to add generative artificial intelligence capabilities to its virtual assistant, allowing it to do things like help people plan a trip or catch up on emails and then ask follow-up questions.

The company launched the Google Watch 2, an upgrade from its first smartwatch launched in October last year, with prices starting at US $ 349 (IDR 5.4 million). It is equipped with a digital crown and advanced health tracking features powered by AI.