Google released its next generation Pixel smartphone that is an affordable ‘high end’ device that takes aim at Apple’s iPhone.
The firm held its ‘Launch Night In’ online where it unveiled the Pixel 5 that starts at $699, along with a budget version, Pixel 4a 5G, for $499 – both are at least half the price of the Cupertino company’s handsets.
With the reduced price comes some sacrifices, the Pixel 5 has a less powerful processor and display than competing devices.
However, the firm notes both devices are water resistant, include reverse wireless charging, support 5G networks and have a longer battery life.
Along with the smartphones, the event also introduced a $100 Nest Audio speaker, a new Chromcast and the firm’s new streaming service, ‘Google TV.’
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Google released its next generation Pixel smartphone that is an affordable ‘high end’ device that takes aim at Apple’s iPhone. The tech giant unveiled the Pixel 5 that starts at $699. Users get 8GB of RAMand 128GB of internal storage and will also have access to nearly every major 5G network
Google released the first generation Pixel smartphones in 2016 that were deemed to have the camera of any other handset on the market.
However, it seems that the tech giant has struggled to make a big splash into the market, but the new affordable ‘high-end’ model- may be the stepping stone it needs.
The Pixel 5G and Pixel 4a 5G are designed with a new ultrawide lens, along with the standard rear camera.
Both also come with Cinematic Pan that Google says ‘gives your videos a professional look with ultrasmooth panning that’s inspired by the equipment Hollywood directors use.’
Google also announced a budget version, Pixel 4a 5G, for $499. Pixel 4a 5G includes 6GB of RAM and runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 730, while the Pixel 5 has a 765G chipset
Pixel 5 also have all-day batteries that last up to 48 hours using Extreme Battery Saver, which automatically limits active apps to just the essentials to save power. It also boasts an edge-to-edge screen with a pin hole at the top that holds a camera
One thing these smartphones can do that Apple’s and Samsung’s devices can’t is wait on the line when you call a toll-free number and are put on hold.
‘Built on the smarts of Duplex and Call Screen, this new feature lets you go back to enjoying the things that matter to you, and Google Assistant will notify you once someone is on the line and ready to talk,’ Google shared in a statement.
‘And Hold for Me works on your device, so the entire call is private to you. Goodbye endless hold music, hello more free time.’
Pixel 5 also have all-day batteries that last up to 48 hours using Extreme Battery Saver, which automatically limits active apps to just the essentials to save power.
Google announced the new smartphones during a 30 minute showcased streamed online, where it also introduced a $100 speaker
It is designed with a six-inch OLED panel and lacks the large camera bezel – allowing for the full edged-to-edge display.
The Pixel 5 offers the same power as the Pixel 4a 5G, but with a more RAM and a larger battery.
It also has a more premium looking design with a brushed aluminium body rather than a polycarbonate body that comes with the Pixel 4a
Users get 8GB of RAMand 128GB of internal storage and will also have access to nearly every major 5G network.
Pixel 4a 5G includes 6GB of RAM and runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 730, while the Pixel 5 has a 765G chipset.
The firm has also launched a new Chromcast equipped with a remote and responds to voice commands.
Google is also making its move into streaming with Google TV, which has a programming bundle similar to what cable and satellite providers offer. Google TV is the redesigned Google Play Movies & TV app
The Pixel 5 will be available October 15 in select countries and then will roll out to the US through Verizon on October 29.
Google’s event also introduced its new Nest audio speaker that the firm says is 75 percent louder than previous models and has a 50 percent stronger bass.
And consumers can choose from five colors: Chalk, charcoal, sand, sky and sage.
It includes all of Google’s new features such a real-time multiroom audio, voice calling with Google Duo and the ability to respond to voice commands.
Google is also making its move into streaming with Google TV, which has a programming bundle similar to what cable and satellite providers offer.
Google TV is the redesigned Google Play Movies & TV app, which allows users to rent and buy shows and films.
Along with rebranding the service, the firm has also launched a new Chromcast equipped with a remote and responds to voice commands.
It has a more powerful processor that operates the new interface and supports 4K HDR at up to 60 frames per second.
Google is offering the system with Google TV for $49.99