By: Nick Gambino
Like almost every tech conference in 2022, the Google I/O developer conference has returned to an in-person setting. After two years away (well, not “away” but online) Google wanted to come back strong with a plethora of hardware and software announcements.
Here’s everything they announced at Google I/O 2022.
Pixel 6a and Pixel 7
This is what fans were really tuning in for. The new Pixel 6a is essentially the more affordable version of the Pixel 6. This cheaper-version-phone strategy has paid off over the last few years, giving budget-conscious consumers a quality smartphone option.
The Pixel 6a includes the Tensor AI chipset with a respectable 12 MP camera. The Pixel 7 and 7 Pro was also announced though they weren’t very forthcoming with the details. The 6a, expected July 28th, will fetch for $449 while the 7 and 7 Pro prices will be announced later this fall.
Pixel Watch
There’s a rule: every company that has a stake in the smartphone industry must also have at least one toe dipped in the smartwatch pool. Well, it’s not a rule, but smartwatches are more popular than any of us expected, so it’s a good idea to get involved.
The Pixel Watch finally received an official unveiling. It sports a bezel-less face with a tactile crown. It’ll run on Wear OS 3 and play well with Fitbit’s software. Like the Pixel 7s, we’ll get more details, including pricing, at a later date.
Pixel Buds Pro
The name is self-explanatory of course. The Pixel Buds Pro are noise-cancelling, wireless earbuds that work with anything that supports Bluetooth. That said, they support spatial audio if you’re paired up with a Pixel device.
The Pixel Buds Pro will be released at the same time as the Pixel 6a, on July 28th, and will go for a not-super-cheap $199.
AR Glasses
Just like watches, tech companies seem to be all in on AR glasses. Google famously tried and failed with Google Glass. Well, they’re back at it with the yet-to-be-titled AR glasses that help users overcome communication barriers by doing things like translating spoken languages in real time.
Android 13
What are all these announcements if we didn’t at least get a peek at the newest Android OS? Android 13 will include new customization features like choosing a different language for each app and color matching icons.
The Wallet app is getting an update and will now support official government-issued IDs. Let’s see…what else…oh, they’re improving security and privacy of course. Android 13 will automatically delete your clipboard history. Something nobody thinks about but is appreciated.
The Google I/O developer conference gave us a good look at what the company has in store for us this year. Though, some of the biggest reveals were a bit detail light, leaving us hanging until the fall.
