Google is undergoing a significant transformation as it integrates advanced AI tools like AI Mode and Gemini, signaling a shift away from traditional keyword-based search towards AI-powered interactions. While these innovations offer quicker, summarized information and new functionalities, they also pose challenges such as reliability issues and threats to Google's dominance in web search and advertising. The future of search appears to be AI-driven, with Google leading the way, but the landscape remains uncertain amid competition and technological evolution.
A trusted leaker has shared a clean render of the Google Pixel 8a, revealing the mid-range phone from various angles and confirming its design language. The leaked features align with previous rumors, including a Tensor G3 chipset, 8GB of RAM, at least 128GB of storage, a 4,500mAh battery, and a 64MP+13MP rear camera setup. The device is expected to be unveiled at Google I/O on May 14.
Official marketing images of Google's upcoming Pixel 8A phone have leaked, revealing four color options including a vibrant green. The phone is rumored to feature a 6.1-inch display and Google's Tensor G3 chip, with speculation that it could be the final A-series Pixel phone. Google is expected to release three versions of the Pixel 9 later this year, potentially leaving little room for a 9A model. The company's I/O 2024 keynote is scheduled for May 14th, with the possibility of holding back the Pixel Fold 2 release until October to align with the premium series.
The upcoming Google Pixel 8a has been leaked in four color variants, including vibrant blue and green hues, with official-looking renders revealing the names Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Mint. The device features a rounded design and semi-thick bezels, with all colors expected to have a matte texture on the back and side rails. The green variant may be a Google Store-exclusive, and the phone is anticipated to debut at Google I/O in May with a rumored higher price point.
The Google Pixel 8a is set to be announced at Google I/O in May and will come in four colors: Obsidian, Mint, Porcelain, and Bay. It is expected to feature a 6.1-inch FHD+ 90Hz display, Tensor G3 processor, 4,500mAh battery, and a 64-megapixel main camera. The price is anticipated to be around $499 to $549, continuing the trend of incremental price increases, but there is a possibility that it could stay under $500.
Google has released the Android 15 Beta 1 for Pixel devices, offering an initial beta-quality release with user-facing changes such as edge-to-edge app display and transparent system bars. The update includes OS-level support for app archiving and unarchiving, a new E2eeContactKeysManager for end-to-end encryption, and TalkBack support for Braille displays. Additionally, Android 15 brings changes to prevent malicious background apps from abusing user interaction. Users can provide feedback through the Android Beta Feedback app and join the Android Beta community on Reddit. The beta is available for various Pixel devices and can be installed via the Android Beta Program or through flashing or sideloading.
Google has released the first beta version of Android 15, following two developer previews, in anticipation of the upcoming Google I/O event. This release marks a significant step forward for the new Android version, which is expected to bring improvements in areas such as mobile photography and telecom.
Google accidentally reveals the Pixel 8a in an ad for its Fi Wireless service, confirming the phone's new design and color variants. The mid-range device is expected to debut at Google I/O with potential upgrades including a 120Hz display and Tensor G3, but leaks also suggest a price increase.
The upcoming Google Pixel 8a is rumored to feature a 120Hz display, Tensor G3, and wider availability in more countries. The device is expected to debut around Google I/O in May and will also support display output. The camera setup remains unchanged, and the device is likely to be released in additional countries, expanding beyond the existing 21 countries.
Google I/O is set for May 14 and 15 at Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View, California, with expectations for updates to Android, Wear OS, Gmail, consumer hardware, and AI offerings. The event, aimed at developers for Google's various operating systems, will feature a Sundar-led keynote and is anticipated to unveil new developments in AI and consumer hardware.
Google's I/O developer conference is set to take place on May 14th, featuring a focus on AI, including the controversial Gemini bot and its smaller version, Gemma. The event will likely showcase updates to Android 15, Google's services like Gmail and Google Photos, and possibly introduce the new Pixel 8A smartphone with AI capabilities at a lower price point.
A Google software engineer's comment on an Android bug tracker suggests that the Pixel 8a is on the way, with the return of a battery stats feature. The mid-range Pixel is expected to be announced at Google IO 2024, with a price likely similar to its predecessor, the Pixel 7a. Leaks and rumors indicate a 6.1-inch screen and potential performance optimizations, and the phone may be unveiled at Google IO 2024.
Some Pixel users on the Android 14 beta have noticed the new interactive Emoji Wallpapers appearing on their devices. Google is rolling out an update to the Emoji Wallpaper app in the Android 14 beta 3 update that rolled out to Pixel devices. The app is dubbed "Emoji Workshop Wallpaper" and enables users to create stylized wallpapers using a combination of emoji. The feature is expected to arrive for more users with the June 2023 feature drop and suggests other Android phones may receive the feature down the line.
Google I/O 2023 focused on AI, with announcements including PaLM 2, Magic Editor in Google Photos, and generative AI in Google Workspace and Search. Android updates included generative AI wallpapers and the Find My Device network. Google also announced the Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel Fold. The most important part of the show was Google's efforts in AI responsibility, ensuring its AI-generated images are marked to reduce the spread of misinformation. Other news includes YouTube testing blocking ad blockers and Android 14 Beta 2 release.
Google announced new customization options for the lock screen on Android 14, including personalized clock options and lock screen shortcuts. The Find My feature on Android 14 will now leverage other nearby Android devices to help locate missing items, as well as third-party trackers like Tile. Android 14 also brings improvements to privacy and security, accessibility, and is set to release later this year.