Made by Google Event: Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Android 15 and Everything to Expect [CNET]

Here’s all the hardware and software Google is likely to discuss during its keynote.

Here’s all the hardware and software Google is likely to discuss during its keynote.

The annual Made by Google event is less than a week away, during which the company will unveil its new Pixel 9 phones. We could also get other new products like the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2.

Aside from hardware, we’re likely to hear about AI advancements (a centerpiece of many recent tech keynotes), especially as it relates to upcoming Pixel features. We could also get more details on other features arriving on Android 15.

Here’s everything to know about the Made by Google event.

When is Made by Google?

Google’s keynote takes place Tuesday, Aug. 13, at 10 a.m. PT (1 p.m. ET). The tech giant is holding the in-person event in Mountain View, California, but you can tune in via livestream wherever you are. 

Which Pixel phones could we get?

Google hasn’t been shy about teasing its upcoming handsets. It posted about the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro Fold on X, sharing close-up shots of the camera and hinge, respectively. It also posted images of the two phones on its site, showcasing redesigned pill-shaped camera modules.

The honeymoon phase isn’t a phase.
Get acquainted with #Pixel9 Pro with Gemini at #MadeByGoogle on August 13th at 10am PT: https://t.co/16KPgNDuPa pic.twitter.com/94uE20fpMa

— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) July 29, 2024

The biggest change-up this year could be the release of two Pro models, one larger device and a smaller one. We still anticipate getting the baseline Pixel 9, but now you might be able to choose between the Pixel 9 Pro and what’s rumored to be called the Pixel 9 Pro XL. This XL version would have the same higher-end specs as the regular Pro, just with a larger display.

Reports also suggest Google will pack its Pro lineup with improved camera sensors, leading to clearer and better-lit shots. The phones could also get faster charging. 

Google also hasn’t been shy about its AI efforts, with a tweet reading, “Get acquainted with #Pixel9 Pro with Gemini at #MadeByGoogle.” Gemini is Google’s AI tool and virtual assistant that can help with everything from drafting messages to generating images. Reports suggest Google AI will be integral to the Pixel 9 series, building upon capabilities introduced with the Pixel 8 lineup. The company also highlighted Gemini in a teaser video for the Pixel 9 Pro.

There are also rumors the Pixel 9 could come with satellite connectivity, meaning you’d be able to send a text via satellite when there isn’t a regular signal. Google would be following Apple’s lead here, as it introduced its Emergency SOS system two years ago, allowing iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 users to send texts to summon emergency services. 

Will the Pixel 9 come with Android 15?

The arrival of the Pixel 9 lineup could also usher in the long-awaited rollout of Android 15. Google tends to use the Pixel launch to demonstrate all that Android can do, so it’s likely the latest series will come with Android 15 out of the box. 

The latest OS got its fourth and final beta last month, and it includes improved privacy settings, new camera features and better image search.

What could the Pixel Watch 3 look like?

The latest version of the Pixel Watch could have slimmer bezels and a brighter, 2,000-nit display (twice the brightness of the Pixel Watch 2), according to Android Authority. It could also support ultrawideband (UWB) technology, which would let you pinpoint your device using Google’s Find My Device network. UWB was expected with the release of the Pixel Watch 2, but it never saw the light of day. Google may try again with the Pixel Watch 3. 

The Pixel Watch, like its phone counterpart, may also come in an XL option. That means there could be a 41mm size, as well as a 45mm one — with hopefully a bigger battery. 

Could we get new Pixel Buds Pro?

Google launched the Pixel Buds Pro two years ago, so it may be time for an upgrade. Android Headlines shared images of what the new earbuds could look like, and suggests they’ll be available in four colors: Charcoal, Porcelain, Aloe and Hot Pink. The speaker grilles could be a bit bigger and the wingtips less pronounced, and the case could be slightly bulkier. But overall, the report suggests mostly modest updates.

As always, CNET will be on the ground bringing you all the live updates come Aug. 13.