New Google Pixelbook will see the return of the premium Chromebook

Google is likely planning to reveal more than new Pixel phones during its October 4 event. Also on tap, as per recently leaks are three Google Home mini speakers as well as a return to form for the company in the shape of a 2-in-1 premium Chromebook called the Pixelbook.

Google has a history of fielding premium Chromebooks, starting with 2013's sexy Chromebook Pixel, this new iteration does the notebook thing but also folds back into a tablet. There will also be a Pen, which is ideal for schools and corporate applications. Chromebooks can now run Android apps, so we might see some interesting functions thanks to this cross pollination. 

Source: Phandroid

Intel Invests $1 Billion in the AI Ecosystem

Intel sees Artificial Intelligence as one of the tentpoles of its future. The company is investing in that future with a US $1 billion aimed to develop product innovation.

"AI will make the impossible possible: advancing research on cancer, Parkinson’s disease and brain disorders; helping to find missing children; and furthering scientific efforts in climate change, space exploration and oceanic research," explained Brian Krzanich, chief executive officer of Intel.

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Pixel 2 expected to get 'Active Edge' and improved Google Assistant

Fast becoming one of the more anticipated smartphone releases this year, the successor to last year's Google Pixel tandem are still shrouded in mystery even as some marquee features are anticipated come October 4 as per FCC documents. The new Pixel, which we're calling Pixel 2, will be made by HTC and will feature an 'Active Edge' which makes it possible to squeeze the sides of the device to invoke an app or feature (i.e. bring up the camera or, more likely, conjuer up Google Assistant.

Google Assistant, which was one of the key features of last year's Pixel line is also expected to be able to handle more trigger words and, if reports are correct, should have a range of voices to choose from. The Pixel and larger Pixel XL (made by HTC and LG, respectively) are going to ship with Android 8 'Oreo' and should also bring water resistance while omitting the headphone jack. Stay tuned for our coverage of the launch and hands on of the products come October 4.

Source:BGR

Watch OS 4 coming to Apple Watch tomorrow

Apple Watch users get a free update tomorrow as Apple Watch OS 4 ships to existing users. The update focuses on improved activity tracking and motivation to help users 'close their circles' which is how Apple measures activity and fitness. Those who push harder are rewarded with various celebratory graphics and sign

Workout settings are more detailed and can be tailored to specific needs. There now require fewer button presses to get workouts started. Music playback on the Watch has also been significantly improved, this is ideal for runners who don't like bringing their iPhone along and have a Watch and wireless headphones.

A new Siri watch face makes notifications and calendar events more effective by having them come up closer to the time. Stay tuned for our initial impressions of Watch OS 4.