Google unveils Pixel 8 smartphones, Pixel Watch 2 with new AI features, mobile processor
- The AI features on the Pixel 8 smartphones can help with photography, summarising web pages and blocking out spam calls, Google executives say
- Google has also announced plans to add generative AI capabilities to its virtual assistant, allowing it to do things like help people plan a trip
Google’s flagship Pixel smartphone has a fraction of Apple’s iPhone sales, but it is designed to show how Android products push the limits of available technology. Pixels are popular with photography enthusiasts and consumers who prefer the Android gadgets without modifications by other phone makers.
Google strengthened the Pixel line up with its latest mobile processor, Tensor G3. The new Google custom chip has more AI and machine learning capabilities, enabling users to crunch more data on the device itself and in the cloud.
The AI features can help with photography, summarising web pages and blocking out spam calls, executives said at the Made by Google event in New York on Wednesday.
The higher-end Pixel 8 Pro features a Thermometer app to measure body temperature, subject to approval by the Food and Drug Administration.
Starting prices are US$699 for the Pixel 8 and US$999 for the Pixel Pro 8, US$100 more than the previous generation models. They will be available from October 12.
