Made by Google 2024: Hardware announcements

The Made by Google event, held on August 13, 2024, showcased a range of new hardware and software innovations from Google.

In this post, we are going to look at the hardware announcements:

• They made 3 major hardware announcements: Pixel 9 series smartphones, Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2.

• Pixel 9 Series Smartphones: Google launched the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. All models are powered by the Tensor G4 chip and offer over 24 hours of battery life, emergency SOS features, and extensive software support for seven years. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold features an 8-inch display when opened, catering to the foldable phone market. Google launched their first fold phone last year (2023), the Pixel Fold 1. Notice that they haven’t named the Fold smartphone this year Pixel Fold 2. Instead, they named it Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

• Pixel Watch 3:

  • Sizes: Available in two sizes, 41mm and a new 45mm variant, catering to a broader range of users.

  • Display: Features advanced Actua displays, which are brighter and larger, with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. The 45mm model has 40% more screen area due to reduced bezels, enhancing visibility during activities like running.

  • Battery Life: Offers up to 36 hours of battery life with improvements in power-saving modes. The charging speed has been increased by 20%, allowing the watch to reach 80% charge in about 50 minutes.

  • Software: Runs on Wear OS 5, incorporating enhanced fitness tracking capabilities, including metrics like cardio load and ground contact time. It also features a new Morning Brief notification to summarize health metrics and weather information.

  • Daily Readiness Score: This feature assesses recovery and readiness for workouts, no longer requiring a Fitbit Premium subscription for basic access.

  • Loss of Pulse Detection: A new safety feature that can alert users in case of a sudden loss of pulse, potentially saving lives

• Pixel Buds Pro 2: These new earbuds are designed for comfort and security, enhancing the audio experience for users.

Below are the reviews and commentary on these products by some of the well-known tech content creators :