By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla
There were few surprises in today's 'Made by Google' event. Many of the devices, including the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, Pixel slate 2-in-1 Chromebook and even the new Chromecast, have been outed in various renders, videos and some have been even sold before hand.
The surprises, however, came in the form of software and services which make these devices potential game changers in their specific categories.
The new Pixel 3 smartphones look like mild refinements from last year's duo of impressive devices. This time around they improve on camera hardware as well as feature innovative computational features to ensure the best photo by taking shots even before the shutter is pressed. The new Top Shot feature, which debuts on the Pixels 3, shoot multiple HDR+ shots to ensure you can capture a great image. The new Pixels also promise impressive low-light photography and zoom. Pixel 3 also brings IP68 water and dust resistance.
New to the Pixel line this year is wireless charging, Google is releasing the Pixel Stand, the smartest wireless charger that turns into a smart visual and audio experience powered by the Google Assistant. It answers your questions, plays music, helps you control smart home devices, transitions into a photo frame when idle, and much more.
The Pixel 3 is available for preorder today at Best Buy, Bell, Costco, Fido, Freedom, Koodo, Rogers, Telus, T-Booth, Videotron, Virgin, WirelessWave, Walmart, WoW Mobile in the coming weeks. The Pixel 5.5” 64GB will start at $999 (plus tax) and the Pixel 6.3” 64GB will start at $1129 (plus tax). The Pixel Stand will be available in November via the Google Store and select retail and carrier partners for $109 (plus tax).
An all new Pixel Slate brings the the Chrome OS to a 2-in-1 form factor. This is Google's answer to the iPad Pro and the Surface Pro, so it can work with a pen as well as an accessory keyboard.
Pixel Slate is a refreshing take on the Chromebook, it offers users a choice of processors and storage ranging from a Celeron to a Core i7. Rumours were that this device would be able to dual-boot into Windows 10 and while that has not been discussed at today's event, the specs show that these Pixel Slates can support it.
Currently on a waitlist, Pixel Slate is expected to start at $849 (plus tax), Pixel Slate comes in several configurations. Pixel Slate Keyboard is $259 (plus tax) and Pixelbook Pen is $129 (plus tax). All three will be available later this year** on the Google Store, Best Buy Canada and at other select retailers.
Google also previewed Google Home Hub which is a smart speaker that's built around a display for more interactive and complete smart interactions.
Stay tuned for upcoming reviews on these devices from Google.