Today, Made by Google held their fall devices launch. Below is our thoughts on what is significant and the recap of the news.

What’s Significant

The key takeaway from Made by Google’s 2023 hardware event is the emphasis on improved AI and ML capabilities. Google announced 7 years of security updates for the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, making them more viable for enterprise use. The Pixel 8 Pro debuted Google’s own on-device AI models, beating Qualcomm and MediaTek to offering an on-device large language model. This enables features like autocomplete, summarization, and image synthesis directly on the device.

The second important announcement was the upgraded Pixel Watch. With a new Qualcomm chip, it has better performance and battery life. It also adds body response tracking to monitor stress and recommend actions for mental health. Finally, Google Assistant is getting more conversational abilities through a new AI system called Bard. This will allow Assistant to understand context better and have more natural dialogue.

Overall, the focus was on bringing more powerful AI and ML directly into Google’s hardware. Between on-device models, health tracking, and conversational assistants, Google is building devices that can dynamically adapt and understand users better over time. Advanced AI/ML is powering the next generation of Google’s products.

Pixel 8/Pro Announcement Details

• Google has released two new phones, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.
• The phones are designed for a more helpful and personalized experience.
• They are powered by the Google Tensor G3 and will receive seven years of software updates.
• The Pixel 8 has a 6.2-inch Actua display, contoured edges, and satin metal finishes. It comes in Rose, Hazel, and Obsidian colors.
• The Pixel 8 Pro features a 6.7-inch Super Actua display, a temperature sensor on the back, and a matte glass back. It comes in Porcelain, Bay, and Obsidian colors.
• Both phones have upgraded camera systems, including better low-light performance and improved macro focus.
• The camera app has a redesigned interface, and the Pixel 8 Pro offers Pro Controls for more creative control.
• New features include Best Take for getting the perfect group photo, Magic Editor in Google Photos for editing with generative AI, and Audio Magic Eraser for reducing distracting sounds in videos.
• Later this year, the Pixel 8 Pro will receive Video Boost for enhanced video processing.
• Other features include Summarize to quickly understand webpage content, improved speech recognition, and enhanced Call Screen to reduce spam calls.
• The phones come with seven years of software support, including OS upgrades, security updates, and regular Feature Drops.

Google Pixel Watch 2

• Google announces the Pixel Watch 2, a new smartwatch with upgraded performance and new health and safety features.
• The Pixel Watch 2 has improved heart rate tracking, with an all-new heart rate sensor that is up to 40% more accurate for vigorous activities.
• It features three new sensors: an electrodermal activity sensor for stress monitoring, a skin temperature sensor for sleep insights, and a continuous heart rate sensor for accurate health metrics.
• The watch is designed for all-day wear, with a 24-hour battery life and faster charging capabilities.
• Fitness features include Heart Rate Zone Coaching, Pace Training, automatic workout start and stop reminders, and access to Fitbit features.
• Safety features include fall detection, Emergency SOS, Medical ID, Emergency Sharing, and Safety Check.
• The watch runs on Wear OS 4, offering smarter notifications, improved accessibility, and customization options.
• It can be paired with the Fitbit app for a comprehensive view of health and wellness and comes with six months of Fitbit Premium.
• The Pixel Watch 2 can easily pair with other Pixel devices and offers features like Find My Phone and Automatic Call Screener.

New Pixel Buds Pro

• Google announces new features and colors for the Pixel Buds Pro.
• The Pixel Buds Pro now support Bluetooth Super Wideband, improving call quality and making voices sound fuller and clearer.
• Clear Calling reduces background noise during calls to enhance voice clarity.
• Conversation Detection automatically pauses music and switches to Transparency Mode when the user starts speaking, allowing for easy conversations without removing the earbuds.
• Pixel Buds Pro minimize audio latency for a more immersive gaming experience.
• The Pixel Buds Pro app provides suggestions for maintaining hearing wellness and is now available on Chromebooks.

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