- Google wants to spice up new smartphones with AI
Google is leveraging its decades-long investments in artificial intelligence to power the new smartphones of its own Pixel brand. The tech giant's devices chief, Rick Osterloh, announced the new Pixel 9 model at the company's headquarters in Mountain View, stating that Google's AI runs particularly smoothly and securely on its own devices. The software can, for instance, summarize the content of emails and phone calls or provide text suggestions.
The Pixel 9 will be released in four versions: a standard model, a beefed-up Pro variant with two screen sizes, and the Pro Fold, which features a foldable display. Buyers of the Pro models will receive a one-year subscription to the AI assistant Gemini Live, enabling users to interact naturally.
Google: "What can AI do for me?"
Osterloh emphasized that Google aims to answer the most important question about AI: "What can AI do for me?" Google's smartphones primarily compete with those of Samsung and Apple. The iPhone maker recently announced advanced AI features that will be rolled out gradually from this fall.
However, Apple takes a slightly different approach than Google. Its in-house AI software focuses on personal information, while users can consult the chatbot ChatGPT from OpenAI for other queries. In contrast, Google's Gemini is designed as an AI software for all occasions. Google also develops the mobile operating system Android, which runs on devices including the Pixel, Samsung smartphones, and gadgets from Chinese rivals.
Personalized AI Features
Among the new features of the Pixel phones is the ability to analyze the content of screenshots and transcribe phone conversations as text. Google emphasized that both features are secure, and data remains only on the devices. Microsoft recently canceled a planned AI feature for Windows computers that would take and analyze screenshots every few seconds due to data protection concerns.
Google also promises a significantly improved camera for the Pixel 9, delivering higher resolution images and better performance in low-light conditions. Alongside the smartphones, Google also unveiled a new model of its in-house computer watch.
The Pixel 9's AI features play a significant role in its unique selling proposition, allowing it to summarize email content and provide text suggestions. Users of the Pro models will also gain access to the AI assistant Gemini Live for natural interaction.
Google's approach to AI in its devices, including the Pixel, varies from Apple's, as Gemini is designed to be an all-occasions AI software, while Apple's focus is on personal information.
