Google Pixel 9 Series Early Launch Precedes iPhone 16 Debut Next Month

A knock-on effect of this will see Google abandon its typical product launch schedule to move up its annual hardware event from October instead it'll take place in mid-August -…

By Ishika Setia

July 2, 2024

3 min read

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A knock-on effect of this will see Google abandon its typical product launch schedule to move up its annual hardware event from October instead it’ll take place in mid-August – a change that also means the company’s latest flagship – Google Pixel 9 smartphones arrive ahead of Apple’s traditional iPhone upgrade cycle for the first time ever.

More About Google Pixel 9 Series Launch

Google last week invited the media to an August 13 hardware event with a focus on “the foundation of Google AI, Android software, and the Pixel lineup of devices.” Google usually holds its Made by Google event in early October to introduce the most recent Pixel phones, smartwatches, and Nest stuff.

It is rumored that Google plans to launch three devices in its Pixel 9 series and a leak of reports has been confirmed. Alongside the regular Google Pixel 9 and Google Pixel 9 Pro, there will be a larger 6.2-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL model. With the photographic part, it is mentioned that the Google Pixel 9 Pro will bring three rear cameras. Google is also slated to introduce Android 15 at the event, complete with improvements enabled by its Gemini AI tech and some new features.

Alongside the new phones, Google is expected to announce a Pixel Fold 2 tablet series and Pixel Wear OS watch as well as some revamped earbuds that will be heading in Apple’s direction. Google is probably pushing these hardware updates faster so that it doesn’t look like a reactive response to Apple’s forthcoming September announcements. The iPhone 16 lineup – Apple Watch Series 9 with a beta version of the expected iOS is only being made available to developers.

This adjustment in Google’s launch schedule underscores the intensifying competition between the two tech giants in the high-end smartphone and wearable markets, as both companies vie for consumer attention and loyalty with their latest innovations and ecosystem integrations.

FAQs

Why is Google launching the Pixel 9 earlier this year?

Google has decided to refresh its product lineup in mid-August instead of October to align its hardware releases ahead of Apple’s traditional September iPhone launch cycle. This allows Google to showcase its latest devices before Apple’s new iPhone models hit the market.

What devices can we expect from Google’s August event?

Google is rumored to unveil three devices in the Pixel 9 lineup, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and a new larger 6.2-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL. Additionally, there are expectations for the launch of the Pixel Fold 2 tablet, Pixel Watch 3 series, and new Pixel earbuds, all set to compete with Apple’s offerings.