Google introduces new line of Pixel phones, watches, and earbuds with groundbreaking life-saving technology | Science & Technology Update

Google’s latest Pixel lineup was unveiled at Made by Google 2024, the annual hardware launch event by the tech giant.

The phones, artificial intelligence, and earbuds have all received updates, with one groundbreaking feature in the smartwatch.

Loss of Pulse Detection

The Pixel Watch, Google’s smartwatch, now includes a new Loss of Pulse Detection feature that utilizes AI to detect when the wearer’s pulse is no longer present.

In such a situation, additional sensors are activated to detect motion or pulse. If no detection is made, the watch initiates a check-in process with the wearer, followed by an audio alarm and a 20-second countdown.

If there is no response from the wearer after these steps, an automatic call is placed to emergency services, providing the wearer’s location and vital signs.

This is the first instance of such technology being integrated into a smartwatch, according to Google, and it was developed in collaboration with cardiologists, health experts, and A&E personnel.

It is approved for use in various European countries.

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Prior to these releases, Which? tech expert Andrew Laughlin stated to Sky News that consumers seek AI functionality only when it is sensibly integrated and serves a purpose.

A potentially life-saving device could meet that criterion.

Pixel Receives Updates

In lighter news, almost the entire Pixel phone range is receiving upgrades, except for the recently launched Pixel 8a.

“This is the most significant update to the Pixel family,” stated Brian Rakowski, Vice President of Product Management at Pixel, during the launch event.

The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Fold are all more robust than their predecessors, thanks to the Google Tensor G4 chip.

This enhancement will enable the devices to handle new AI features within Gemini – Google’s AI – and offer improved security.

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The base model, the Pixel 9, will be priced between £799 and £899. It includes a new feature that eliminates the need to ask strangers to take photos during holidays.

The “Add Me” feature, previewing in the Pixel 9, lets users take a group photo and then swap in the photographer, merging both images seamlessly.

Paired with the “Best Take” feature, which combines photos for optimal looks, this could revolutionize group selfies.

The Pixel 9 Pro now comes in two sizes and is expected to deliver superior photo and video quality. The price ranges from £999 to £1,449 based on size and storage options.

It also introduces Super Res Zoom for video for the first time, with the ability to capture footage in 8K, akin to the Samsung Galaxy S20 lineup.

The Pixel Fold, Google’s foldable phone, has also been upgraded with brighter displays and improved cameras.

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Mr. Laughlin highlighted the consistent consumer demand for enhanced battery life, but underscored the lack of innovative solutions in that area.

Despite the improved battery life in these devices, none of them break new ground in this aspect.

“I would love to see a smartphone and a watch that can last a week before needing a charge,” mentioned Mr. Laughlin.

While that may still be a future aspiration, the new Pixel 9 Pro could last up to 100 hours in Extreme Battery Saver mode.

Gemini, Google’s AI, and pot plants

These upgrades heavily feature artificial intelligence, with Gemini capable of retrieving documents, summarizing notes, and editing images.

“You can even snap a photo and use Gemini to get answers – like how to save a dying plant in your window,” as described by Google.

The range will receive updates and support for the next seven years, ensuring longevity for users.

Pixel Buds Pro 2 will know when you’re chatting

The Pixel Buds Pro 2, Google’s premium earbuds, have been redesigned to be smaller and more powerful, with enhanced noise-cancellation capabilities.

They also utilize AI to recognize when you begin speaking, pausing your music and turning off noise cancellation until your conversation is complete.