Google has responded to recent leaks of the new Pixel 9 Pro phones by officially announcing two new handsets: the Google Pixel 9 Pro and the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold. There's not a lot of information in the announcement; just two close-up images of both phones and a promise that they are "Coming 14 August." That seems to be the date of the upcoming Made By Google event, where we'd expect pre-orders to be announced.
Both handsets look pretty unique and, of course, the offensively large pill-shaped camera bump is already causing a stir amongst those who care about this sort of thing.
Apple and Samsung have both leaned into their own versions of AI-assisted smartphonery this year, and as you'd expect, Google's 2024 phone will be no different. Gemini, Google's large language AI model, seems to be stealing the spotlight this year and is positioned prominently in the otherwise vague marketing for the Pixel 9 series phones.
Interestingly, the announcement also promises a mystery gift exclusively for the very first Pixel 9 Pro pre-orders. A "limited-edition collectible" that lets early birds "own a piece of Google Pixel design history."
When the first Pixel Fold was released in 2023, Google didn't waste much time getting into punters hands in the US but as time went on and Google remained mum on a local release, it became apparent the Pixel Fold wouldn't be making it to Australia. While we're waiting on official confirmation from Google, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is, in fact, currently advertised on the Australian Google Store, which is something.
We've reached out to Google for comment, but in the meantime, look forward to the 14th of August 2024 when we'll find out more at the Made By Google Event.
1 min read
