Tag: google

  • Google Pixel 9a Release: Countries Getting the New Smartphone Next Month

    Google Pixel 9a Release: Countries Getting the New Smartphone Next Month

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is not showing pre-order dates for the Pixel 9a on their store listing; users must enter their email to be notified.
    2. The Pixel 9a will launch in Canada, the UK, and the US on April 10.
    3. It will be available in the Eurozone and Switzerland on April 14.
    4. Pre-orders for Australia, India, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia will start on April 16.
    5. Google has confirmed launch dates for the Pixel 9a in a total of 31 countries, but Japan’s date is still unknown.

    With April just around the corner, the Google store listing still doesn’t show when folks can pre-order the Pixel 9a. Instead, the company is asking users to enter their email to ‘Get notified’ when it will be available. But they did let slip the pre-order dates, although it was posted on a support page that probably won’t be read by many.

    Release Dates for Different Regions

    As per that page, the Pixel 9a will be available in Canada, the UK, and the US starting April 10. It will then make its way to the Eurozone and Switzerland on April 14. For those living in Australia, India, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia, the wait will last until April 16 to pre-order the Pixel 9a. There are talks about the device coming to Japan too, but Google hasn’t said when that will happen. Apart from Japan, Google has confirmed the launch dates for the Pixel 9a in a total of 31 countries.

    Summary of Availability

    To sum it all up, while Google keeps a few details under wraps, they have provided specific dates for the Pixel 9a’s launch in several regions. Users eager to get their hands on the device will need to mark their calendars for these important dates.

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  • Wear OS 5.1 Update Causes Notification Problems for Pixel Watch Users

    Wear OS 5.1 Update Causes Notification Problems for Pixel Watch Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel series hasn’t been upgraded since November 2024, with the next update expected in March 2025.
    2. The Wear OS 5.1 upgrade introduced new features but caused issues like delayed notifications and various glitches.
    3. Users of Pixel Watch 2 and Watch 3 are experiencing significant notification problems, including late or missing alerts.
    4. Other glitches include unexpected crashes when changing watch faces, unresponsive touchscreens, and slow Fitbit syncing.
    5. Google is aware of these issues and is working on an OTA fix, expected before June 2025, with temporary relief possible through rebooting the watch.

    Google’s Pixel series hasn’t seen any upgrades since November 2024, with the next update being the March 2025 patch. This significant Wear OS 5.1 upgrade brought several cool features like enhanced media controls, improved pulse detection, and menstrual cycle tracking. Nevertheless, according to user feedback, it has also led to problems like delayed notifications and various other glitches.

    Notification Problems

    Specifically, numerous users of the Pixel Watch 2 (currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon) and Watch 3 are encountering notification troubles. Reports indicate that notifications are either arriving late or are completely absent. While this may not appear to be a serious issue, the over-the-air (OTA) update has also introduced additional bugs impacting the smartwatches.

    Other Glitches

    Among these glitches are unexpected crashes when modifying the watch face, unresponsive touchscreens, and slow Fitbit synchronization. Naturally, these issues don’t seem to occur as frequently as the notification delays. Presently, there isn’t a straightforward solution for Pixel Watch users to eliminate these complications. In fact, some users have attempted to restore factory settings without success in resolving the issues.

    Temporary Fixes and Future Updates

    Interestingly, some users have noticed that rebooting the smartwatch may temporarily alleviate some problems. The good news is that Google appears to be aware of the issues related to Wear OS 5.1. A company spokesperson mentioned they are currently working on an OTA fix to rectify the notification delays and other bugs. This update is anticipated to be released before June 2025.

    r/PixelWatch via: 9to5Google

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  • Pixel Sense Enhances, But Doesn’t Replace Google Gemini Assistant

    Pixel Sense Enhances, But Doesn’t Replace Google Gemini Assistant

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google’s anticipated digital assistant, initially called ‘Pixie’, has been renamed to ‘Pixel Sense’ for its launch alongside the Pixel 10 series.
    2. The project has been split into two parts: one released as Pixel Screenshots, and the other potentially evolving into Pixel Sense.
    3. Pixel Sense is expected to enhance Gemini by offering additional functionalities and suggestions for Pixel users.
    4. There is uncertainty about whether Pixel Sense will be exclusive to the Pixel 10 series at launch, similar to Pixel Screenshots’ limitation to Pixel 9.
    5. Recent insights indicate a shift in the narrative surrounding Google’s digital assistant, with new developments emerging from Android Authority and 9to5Google.

    The narrative surrounding Google’s anticipated ‘Pixie’ digital assistant has shifted once again. Earlier this month, Android Authority reported finding new insights regarding what they termed ‘Google’s speculative new…[digital] assistant’.

    New Developments

    This report came on the heels of rumors from late 2023 and early 2024 indicating that Google planned to unveil a new digital assistant using the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro (curr. $849 on Amazon). However, Android Authority claimed that Google has renamed Pixie to ‘Pixel Sense’ in preparation for a broader launch later this year alongside the Pixel 10 series.

    Project Breakup

    Now, according to 9to5Google, these assertions might not be correct. It seems that Pixie has been divided into two separate projects, with one having already been released as Pixel Screenshots. The other initiative might evolve into Pixel Sense, aiming to enhance Gemini with additional functionalities.

    In essence, Pixel Sense is not likely to take the place of Gemini. Instead, 9to5Google anticipates it will help Pixel users by providing suggestions based on inputs from Google’s own apps. Unfortunately, it’s still unclear if Pixel Sense will be limited to the Pixel 10 series at its debut, much like Pixel Screenshots has been with the existing Pixel 9 smartphones.

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  • Google Postpones Pixel 9A Release Due to Quality Issues

    Google Postpones Pixel 9A Release Due to Quality Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is delaying the launch of the Pixel 9A to address a component quality issue, with the new shipping date set for April instead of March.
    2. Preorders for the Pixel 9A have not yet started, marking a departure from Google’s usual product release timeline.
    3. Ongoing quality checks are the reason for the delay, and an embargo prevents creators from sharing information about the device’s features.
    4. Although the Pixel series has generally been reliable, there have been past issues, including firmware updates for battery overheating and screen defects.
    5. The Pixel 9A features a large 5,100mAh battery and a unique design, but customers will have to wait an additional month for its release.

    Google has decided to delay the launch of the Pixel 9A to fix a component quality problem that is impacting “a small number of Pixel 9A devices.” The new shipping date is now set for April instead of March, and preorders have not yet started on the Google Store. This change is unlike Google’s typical approach of releasing products right after they are announced.

    Ongoing Quality Checks

    In a comment made to The Verge, Google spokesperson Matt Flegal pointed out that this postponement is due to ongoing quality checks related to a specific component issue. The embargo surrounding this device prevents creators from sharing certain features or capabilities. “They are not permitting us to display any software at all like I usually do,” mentioned popular YouTube creator Marques Brownlee.

    Serious Concerns

    Although testing a Pixel with benchmarks has rarely boosted the sales of Tensor-powered Pixel devices in the past, the new embargo suggests the current situation is quite serious. However, Google has yet to clarify which component is being examined. The Pixel series has generally been praised for its dependability, although it has encountered some problems. For example, an urgent firmware update for the Pixel 4A was rolled out earlier this year to tackle battery overheating issues. The Pixel 8 also received extended warranty coverage for display defects, and the Pixel 4A 5G faced touchscreen glitches after a software update in 2021.

    Impressive Features Await

    The Pixel 9A is outfitted with the largest battery (5,100mAh) seen in any Google phone so far, promising excellent performance and battery life. Unlike the Pixel 8a, the Pixel 9a is strategically positioned, and the Pixel 9 doesn’t seem to offer a notably better option for most users compared to how the Pixel 8 did last year. Furthermore, the Pixel 9a is distinctive with its completely flush camera island. However, those eager for the latest budget-friendly Pixel will need to wait a bit longer—about a month more.

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  • Google Pixel 10 Smartphones Launch with Enhanced Camera Features

    Google Pixel 10 Smartphones Launch with Enhanced Camera Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google will launch the Pixel 9a next month, while the Pixel 10 series is expected in about six months.
    2. The Pixel 10 models will feature the new Tensor G5 chipset, moving away from Samsung’s influence.
    3. The Tensor G5 is being developed in partnership with TSMC and will use 3 nm nodes.
    4. Key features of the Tensor G5 include ARM Cortex CPU cores and a proprietary image signal processor (ISP) for improved photo and video handling.
    5. The shift to in-house chipset development indicates better performance and efficiency for future Google devices.

    Google has recently introduced the Pixel 9a, which is set for a complete launch next month. Meanwhile, leaker Kamila Wojciechowska is already looking toward the Pixel 10 series, expected to be released in about six months.

    Upcoming Features

    Wojciechowska states that all Pixel 10 flagship models are still on schedule to debut with Google’s Tensor G5 chipset. Just to remind you, the Tensor G4 found in the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro (currently priced at $849 on Amazon), and Pixel 9a has shown slight improvements over the Tensor G3. In contrast, the Tensor G5 is anticipated to break away from Samsung’s influence, as Google moves toward completely developing its chipsets internally.

    Technical Details

    As previously mentioned, Google is believed to have partnered with TSMC to utilize its 3 nm nodes for the Tensor G5. This chipset, as per Wojciechowska’s claims, will feature ARM Cortex CPU cores alongside an Imagination Technologies (IMG) DXT GPU. Moreover, the Tensor G5 is expected to include a shift to a proprietary image signal processor (ISP), which should enhance efficiency in handling photos and videos. Wojciechowska highlights that the Tensor G5 will have some key differences compared to the Tensor G4 in various aspects.

    Conclusion

    With these advancements, the Pixel 10 series is shaping up to be an exciting addition to Google’s lineup. The move to an in-house chipset development signifies a major step for the company, promising better performance and efficiency in future devices.

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  • Google Pixel 9a Launch Delayed Over Quality Concerns

    Google Pixel 9a Launch Delayed Over Quality Concerns

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a has been announced but will not be available for pre-order until April due to quality concerns.
    2. A specific quality issue has been found in a small number of already made Pixel 9a devices, but details remain undisclosed.
    3. The Pixel 9a is priced cheaper than the Pixel 9, featuring a 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED display and a 5,100mAh battery.
    4. The device will receive seven years of OS software updates and has a water-resistant design.
    5. The camera setup includes a 48 MP main camera and a 13 MP selfie camera, with some compromises compared to the Pixel 9.

    Google has revealed the Pixel 9a today, but you can’t place an order just yet. The mid-range smartphone is expected to be available in April, which is a bit surprising since Google usually allows pre-orders right after announcing new Pixel models. According to reports from The Verge, Google stated that the Pixel 9a was initially meant to ship this month.

    Delay Due to Quality Concerns

    The company has encountered a quality issue with a specific part of the smartphone, which is said to have impacted a small number of Pixel 9a devices already made. However, Google hasn’t disclosed which exact part is the problem or how many units are affected. Besides the postponed release, this quality concern also means that test samples will be sent out later than anticipated. Journalists have not received any Pixel 9a phones yet, so it may take a while before the first reviews come out.

    Pricing and Specs Comparison

    The Google Pixel 9a is marketed as a more affordable option compared to the Pixel 9, which is currently priced at $639 on Amazon. This “budget Pixel” features the same 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED display with a peak brightness of 2,700 nits, powered by the Google Tensor G4 ARM chipset. The battery of the Pixel 9a is even slightly bigger at 5,100mAh. Google promises seven years of OS software updates and a water-resistant design. There are some compromises in terms of the camera setup, as the Pixel 9a comes with a 48 MP f/1.7 main camera that has a smaller 1/2 inch sensor, along with a 13 MP f/2.2 selfie camera featuring a 1/3.1 inch sensor.

    Conclusion

    In summary, while the Pixel 9a has been announced, potential buyers will need to wait for its release in April due to unexpected quality issues. The device aims to provide a budget-friendly alternative to the more expensive Pixel 9, maintaining many similar features but with some trade-offs in camera performance.

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    Google Pixel 9a Launch Delayed Over Quality Concerns

     

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  • Google Pixel 9a Launching Next Month with Extended Software Support

    Google Pixel 9a Launching Next Month with Extended Software Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has launched the Pixel 9a, seven months after the Pixel 9 series, featuring a streamlined design.
    2. The Pixel 9a includes a 48 MP main camera and a 13 MP ultra-wide camera, with a nearly flush camera setup.
    3. It offers advanced AI camera features like ‘Best Shot’ and ‘Add Me’, powered by the Google Tensor G4 chipset.
    4. The device has a 6.3-inch 120 Hz OLED display with a resolution of 1080p and high peak brightness.
    5. The Pixel 9a starts at $499 for 128 GB storage, includes a 5,100 mAh battery, and promises 7 OS upgrades starting with Android 15.

    Google has at last introduced the Pixel 9a, seven months after launching the Pixel 9 series with flagship models like the Pixel 9 Pro (currently priced at $849 on Amazon). As anticipated, the fresh Pixel A device features a more streamlined design when compared to the Pixel 8a, which is still quite new.

    Camera Innovations

    With the Pixel 9a, Google has opted for a nearly flush camera setup. To achieve this sleek look, the company has equipped the phone with a 48 MP main camera that has a 1/2-inch optical format and an f/1.7 aperture, falling short in specs compared to the one found in the Pixel 9. This is also true for the ultra-wide camera, which delivers 13 MP resolution with a 1/1.31-inch optical format and an f/2.2 aperture.

    AI Features and Display

    Despite these differences, Google maintains its commitment to offering a range of AI camera functionalities, including ‘Best Shot’ and ‘Add Me’, which combines several photos into one group image. The Pixel 9a is powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chipset and boasts a 120 Hz OLED screen that spans 6.3 inches, providing a resolution of 1080p and a peak brightness of 1,800 nits, or 2,700 nits for HDR content.

    Battery and Pricing Details

    On top of that, Google has incorporated a 5,100 mAh battery that is capable of both wireless charging and 30 W wired charging through a USB 3.2 Type-C port. The starting price for the Pixel 9a is $499 for 128 GB of storage, but it goes up to $599 for double the storage while maintaining the same 8 GB of RAM. Google plans to start selling the Pixel 9a next month, with a promise of 7 OS upgrades beginning from Android 15.

    Google Pixel 9a Launching Next Month with Extended Software SupportGoogle Pixel 9a Launching Next Month with Extended Software Support
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  • Gemini Deep Research Now Available for Free Users with New AI Models

    Gemini Deep Research Now Available for Free Users with New AI Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has launched experimental versions of its Gemini, including 2.0 Flash, 2.0 Pro, and Personalisation, available on Android, iOS, and the web.
    2. Gemini 2.0 Flash offers faster performance and better efficiency compared to the older version, while details on 2.0 Pro enhancements are not specified.
    3. The Personalisation model uses users’ Google Search history for more customized and accurate responses, improving user experience.
    4. The Deep Research feature, previously limited to Gemini Advanced users, is now free for all users, providing in-depth, easy-to-understand reports on complex subjects.
    5. These updates empower users with free access to advanced AI tools for both personal and work-related tasks, with ongoing enhancements expected in the Gemini AI ecosystem.

    Google has started to launch new experimental versions of its Gemini, which includes 2.0 Flash (experimental), 2.0 Pro (experimental), and Personalisation (experimental). This is accessible on Android, iOS, and the web as well. Additionally, the tech giant has made its Deep Research feature free for all users on these platforms.

    What’s New?

    The upgraded models offer improved functionality and efficiency. The Gemini 2.0 Flash (experimental) is said to provide faster performance and better efficiency than the older version, although Google hasn’t shared specific details about the enhancements in 2.0 Pro (experimental).

    The Personalisation (experimental) model takes advantage of users’ Google Search history to give more customized and accurate answers. This feature can significantly enhance the user experience since it will have more context regarding your preferences.

    Deep Research Feature Now Accessible

    Deep Research, which was previously limited to Gemini Advanced users, is now available to everyone due to this update. This tool uses AI to delve into complex subjects and produce thorough, easy-to-understand reports. It’s a fantastic resource for learning the essentials of a topic without spending hours looking for relevant information online. Now, all users can find this feature in the drop-down menu at the top of the Gemini interface.

    Reports have indicated that early access to these updates has been seen on devices like the Galaxy S23 in India and the Galaxy S25, with the latter enjoying the benefits of the Google One AI Premium plan provided by Google and Samsung. Users can now try out the new models and take advantage of the Deep Research capabilities without any extra charges.

    Empowering Users with Free Features

    By making these features available for free, Google is allowing users to utilize advanced AI for both personal and work-related tasks. Keep an eye out for more updates as Google continues to enhance and develop its Gemini AI ecosystem.

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    Gemini Deep Research Now Available for Free Users with New AI Models

     

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  • Google Pixel 9a Leaks Ahead of Expected Launch

    Google Pixel 9a Leaks Ahead of Expected Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is expected to launch the Pixel 8a soon, with refurbished models currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon.
    2. There is increasing online information about the upcoming Pixel 9a, despite no official announcements from Google.
    3. Promotional images of the Pixel 9a, shared by Evan Blass, suggest features like Google’s Gemini digital assistant.
    4. YouTuber Alexis Garcia has posted a hands-on video and camera samples of the Pixel 9a, though quality may vary due to compression and pre-launch software.
    5. The Pixel 9a is projected to debut globally on March 17, with a starting price of $499.

    Google is anticipated to unveil the Pixel 8a (currently priced at $299.99 for refurbished models on Amazon) shortly, possibly within a week. While the company has not made any formal announcements regarding the launch of a new Pixel A series device, there’s an increasing amount of information surfacing online about the Pixel 9a and it’s features.

    Leaked Information

    Evan Blass has shared numerous promotional images related to the Pixel 9a, some of which we’ve attached below. Judging by their format and resolution, it appears that these images may have been sourced from a retail listing. Certain images display Google’s AI functions, such as its Gemini digital assistant. Additionally, one image positions the Pixel 9a within the larger Pixel 9 lineup.

    New Insights from YouTube

    YouTuber Alexis Garcia has released a hands-on video showcasing a retail version of the Pixel 9a at the start. The same YouTuber has also featured camera samples taken with the Pixel 9a throughout the video, which you can watch below. However, it’s important to keep in mind that YouTube’s compression and likely pre-launch software could affect the assessment of the photo and video quality presented. At this moment, Google is projected to debut the Pixel 9a globally on March 17, with a starting price of $499.

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    Google Pixel 9a Leaks Ahead of Expected LaunchGoogle Pixel 9a Leaks Ahead of Expected LaunchGoogle Pixel 9a Leaks Ahead of Expected Launch
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  • Spigen Reveals Google Pixel 9a Details Before Official Launch

    Spigen Reveals Google Pixel 9a Details Before Official Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 9a has been leaked ahead of its official launch, including details from accessory brand Spigen.
    2. The phone will be available in four color options: black, coral, off-white, and lilac.
    3. It features a relatively flat camera island design that helps prevent rocking on flat surfaces and protects the lens.
    4. The Pixel 9a is expected to have a 6.28-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution and a centered punch-hole front camera.
    5. Specifications may include a Tensor G4 chip, 8 GB of RAM, up to 256 GB of storage, and a camera setup with a 48 MP main sensor and a 13 MP ultrawide sensor.

    Google’s smartphones have a way of getting out before their official launch, and the Pixel 9a is no exception. Before the company makes a formal announcement about its new budget-friendly phone, it has appeared in numerous leaks. Accessory brand Spigen has even revealed it fitted with their Ultra Hybrid clear case.

    Design Details

    As expected, Spigen’s renders align with the recent leaks concerning the Pixel 9a. The listing showcases all the color options for Google’s forthcoming affordable device in vibrant detail. If you haven’t been keeping up, the Spigen case listing along with recent sources indicates that the phone will be available in black, coral, off-white, and lilac shades.

    Camera and Features

    The listing from Spigen also reveals a relatively flat camera island on the back, which stands in contrast to the designs Google has been following with its recent devices. A flatter camera bump is actually beneficial, as this design reduces the likelihood of the phone rocking on flat surfaces and protects the lens from scratches, especially when a case is used.

    The display of the Pixel 9a is also illustrated in the Spigen listing, revealing the chunky bezels that are characteristic of this upcoming device. Similar to past leaked renders, the front camera remains unchanged and is located in a centered punch-hole cutout.

    Specifications

    Regarding specifications, earlier reports indicate that the Google Pixel 9a will come with a 6.28-inch OLED display boasting an FHD+ resolution. Like its siblings in the lineup, it is expected to feature the Tensor G4 chip (the 128 GB Pixel 9 is currently priced at $649 on Amazon), coupled with 8 GB of RAM and storage options up to 256 GB.

    In terms of photography, the Pixel 9a is likely to include a 48 MP main sensor and a 13 MP ultrawide on the rear. Although there’s no official release date from Google yet, the anticipated launch period is rumored to be sometime in March.

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    Spigen Reveals Google Pixel 9a Details Before Official LaunchSpigen Reveals Google Pixel 9a Details Before Official LaunchSpigen Reveals Google Pixel 9a Details Before Official Launch

     

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