So, Google I/O just recently happened. Let's talk about it.
If you didn't know already, Google I/O is Google's event whose purpose is to announce upcoming experimental products and partnerships and new product lines, such as the Google Pixel Fold and the Google Glass. It's also where the A series of Pixel phones are announced. This article will explain what was announced at Google I/O this year.
Google Bard
A big part of this event was about Google's recent AI improvements, including Google Bard, which is Google's answer to the recent ChatGPT and Microsoft Bing AI. They revealed that Bard would work with various Google services, like Gmail and Google Docs.
Google Photos
Another thing that was announced was Google Photos Magic Editor. Basically, Google Magic Editor expands on the already-existing Magic Eraser available in Google Photos. You can read about that here.
Coming this summer
There were a few announcements that were said to go into effect this summer. They include the following:
- WhatsApp is coming to WearOS, Google's in-house watch operating system.
- New Find My Device network powered by all Android devices, similar to Apple's network of iPhones on Find My.
- Unknown tracker device following you alerts. What's really cool about this new feature is that the tracker doesn't even have to be from Google (not that Google makes them as of the time of writing), but rather it can be from any company, like Apple with their AirTags.
Coming this fall
There were also a few announcements that we were told would go info effect this summer. They include the following:
- Android 14, namely it's brand new lock screen customization, similar to (but expanded on) iOS 16.
- There is also new wallpaper options, namely the built-in wallpaper maker. This tool will use generative AI to allow you to create wallpapers in a similar way to OpenAI's DALL-E tool that generated images based on a prompt.
Pixel 7a
That's right. The brand new Pixel 7a was announced at I/O. Some of the specifications include:
- Tensor G2
- 72% larger camera sensor
And this, among all the other specifications not mentioned, come out to $499 USD.
Pixel Fold
It's official. The long-rumored Google Pixel Fold was announced at I/O this year. Here are some of the specifications and features of this new device.
- Tensor G2
- 7.6 in inner display
- 5.8 in outer display
- Dual Screen Interpreter Mode
This device is priced at $1799 USD.
Pixel Tablet
The long awaited Google Pixel Tablet was announced at Google I/O this year. It's specifications include:
- 11 in display
- 3 microphones
- 8 GB RAM
- 128 or 256 GB storage option
- 12 hours of SOT (screen-on time) when watching video
- Fingerprint scanner
- 4 speaker audio system
- 8 MP camera on front and back
- Multiple users, similar to a Windows or MacOS
- Built-in Chromecast
- Included speaker/charging dock
This device is priced at $499 USD
