Curi Start, Google Releases AI-Based New Smartphone Launch Event Earlier Than Apple

Google launched Pixel 9 first from Apple (photo: x @TechaBox)

JAKARTA - Google usually reveals new Pixel smartphones in the fall, but this year it seems they don't want to waste time ahead of competitors.

The tech giant has confirmed that the annual event 'Made by Google' will take place on August 13, where they will feature new AI and software devices.

It is estimated that Google will announce the latest smartphones in the Pixel line, namely the Pixel 9, which may be equipped with various new AI features to compete with Apple.

The short teaser video features Google Pixel branding and number nine in the Roman numbers referring to the ninth phone in this series.

Fans who signed up for Google updates also received an email from the tech giant telling them to mark a date on their calendar.

Made by Google is coming August 13 — and we’ll be showcasing the latest #Pixel devices, the best of Google AI and @Android software updates. Sign up for updates → https://t.co/W5MELxS9fK pic.twitter.com/AHvF2iIXXV

— Google (@Google) June 25, 2024

Made by Google is coming August 13 — and we’ll be showcasing the latest #Pixel devices, the best of Google AI and @Android software updates. Sign up for updates → https://t.co/W5MELxS9fK pic.twitter.com/AHvF2iIXXV

The video, titled 'AI... meet IX at Made by Google', confirms the date of the event in the Roma numbers VIII-XIII-MMXIV, or August 13, 2024.

Google has been filling in its phones with AI features for years, but this could be further improved after ChatGPT's success and Apple's big AI announcement this month.

Rumors show that the Pixel 9 phone will have a new AI-powered assistant called Pixie, which will be similar to the new version of Siri which is supported by ChatGPT which will be present on the iPhone.

The Pixel 9 may also offer a flatter design with a thick rear camera, according to a leaked render to 91Mobiles.

The redesigned camera rod appears to be a 'island' in the form of a pill that is smaller than extending across phones like the Pixel 8 last year.

Google usually releases a more expensive standard Pixel and 'Pro' model, but there is also a possibility of a third 'Pro XL' version with larger screens and larger batteries.

As for the price, the Pixel 8 starts from 699 US dollars (Rp 11.4 million) and the Pixel 8 Pro from 999 US dollars (Rp 16.3 million), but unfortunately for Pixel fans, this new line may experience price increases.

Usually, Made by Google takes place in early October and a new Pixel phone revealed at the event goes on sale about a week later.

However, Google held this year's Made by Google event nearly two months earlier than usual, on August 13 with a possible release date at the end of the month.

It's unclear why this change was made, although the company may want to precede Apple in the calendar, which held an iPhone event in September.

Leaks show that Apple's next iPhone, iPhone 16, will have new buttons, rearranged camera lenses, and thinner bezels.