8 Key Announcements From the Google I/O Event
After canceling the Google I/O conference back in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and holding it almost behind closed doors last year, the search giant is back with a big event.
At this year's Google I/O developer conference, the tech giant unveiled a plethora of Pixel hardware, including its next flagship smartphones, the mid-budget Pixel 6A, the Pixel Buds Pro headphones, and the Pixel Watch smartwatch, as well as announced the new version of Android OS. In this article, you will find the 8 biggest announcements of the Google I/O 2022 event.
1. Pixel 6A
Google unveiled a mid-budget Pixel 6A smartphone which is scheduled for sale in July. It will be priced at $499 in the U.S.
Introducing Pixel 6a, the phone with your favorite features at a great price. This device is powered by Google Tensor and comes complete with Real Tone, Live Translate, Magic Eraser in @GooglePhotos, and up to 72 hours of battery life with Extreme Battery Saver mode. #GoogleIO pic.twitter.com/CfwrJF9kSU
— Google (@Google) May 11, 2022
This impressive mid-range smartphone will run on the same flagship chipset as its more expensive counterparts introduced six months ago. However, it will have a weaker camera and a 6.1-inch OLED screen with 60 Hz and a resolution of 2400×1080 pixels.
2. Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
A new flagship has been announced for fall 2022.
The next generation of Pixel phones is on the horizon. Here’s a first look at the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro — equipped with a new generation of Google Tensor and a sleek design. Coming this fall. #GoogleIO pic.twitter.com/WMysJv1lZP
— Google (@Google) May 11, 2022
So far, we know that the Pixel 7 lineup will get a next-generation Google Tensor processor and Android 13 "out of the box."
3. Pixel Watch
The Pixel Watch is the first smart watch produced by Google. The watch will run on an improved version of the Watch OS 3 with a redesigned interface, improved navigation, and smart notifications. It will also be the first Wear OS watch with Fitbit integration, something Google talked about back at last year's I/O. Other details will be announced closer to release in the fall.
4. Pixel Buds Pro
Pump up the volume with our new Pixel Buds Pro. They check all the boxes with Active Noise Cancellation with Silent Seal™, long battery life to keep up with you and Multipoint connectivity to automatically switch between devices. That’s music to our ears. #GoogleIO pic.twitter.com/9KwIdhfeXA
— Google (@Google) May 11, 2022
Pre-orders for the flagship $199 Pixel Buds Pro headphones will open on July 21. The gadget features active noise cancellation, multi-device connectivity, transparency mode, and automatic volume adjustment depending on external conditions.
5. Pixel Tablet
Google also announced a tablet with a Tensor chip. It is scheduled for release next year.
6. Augmented reality glasses
Google also showed the concept of augmented reality glasses capable of real-time translation during a conversation. Other features or details have not been announced yet.
7. Google Wallet
Google is bringing back its Wallet app, and this time it looks like it's here to stay. Having recently given us an updated Google Pay, the company is now shifting its focus to a full digital wallet as a place to store bank cards, airline tickets, COVID-19 certificates, and more.
8. Android 13 and Android 12L
Google has introduced an updated version of Android 12L that lays the groundwork for tablets and big-screen devices in preparation for the possible release of the Pixel tablet.
Google says it is updating more than 20 of its own apps (like YouTube, Google Maps, Google Play) to optimize for larger screens and is working with partners to update apps such as Facebook, TikTok, and others.
Big screen, big changes. We’re optimizing the Android experience for larger tablet screens. 20+ Google apps will get makeovers so they’re easier to use and easier on the eyes. Many of your other fave apps are getting updates too. #GoogleIO pic.twitter.com/qbfs0DLkZM
— Google (@Google) May 11, 2022
Google also presented Android 13, and the second beta of this version was released. In the latest version of the operating system, developers have focused on security and the Material You design.