RECAP: Google’s Biggest Announcements At I/O 2022.

Google I/O 2022 has come and gone but the memories remain as so much exciting stuff was discussed and we just thought to d a quick recap before we call it a wrap. Traditionally, the Google event has been known to be a software-focused one, but this year’s story is a bit different compared to others. The new Pixel hardware was the star of the show, not only did Google show off its next-gen Pixel Pixel 7 series, but we were introduced to the upcoming Pixel Tablet and also an early look at the Pixel Watch. We present to you a quick recap of all the juicy bits and major announcements from Google I/O 2022.

The Pixel 7 and 7 Pro

First on the list are the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Google confirms that the next-gen Pixel smartphones will be coming this fall. The new Pixel device presents the modest update of last year’s design that keeps the horizontal camera bar but tones it down a little with updated camera cutouts. The 7 and 7 Pro will debut with the next-gen Tensor chipset as well as with Android 13. The new Tensor design would bring AI breakthroughs and new experiences across speech, imaging, video, and security. The Pixel 7 and 7 Pro are purely designed to deliver the “most helpful, most personal experience” you can get on a smartphone, and that’s facilitated by Google’s next-gen Tensor platform.

The Pixel 6a

Still, on smartphones, Google officially unveiled the Pixel 6a, its latest affordable smartphone. The new model showcases notable upgrades over its predecessor, including an updated design inspired by the vanilla Pixel 6, a switch to Google’s in-house Tensor chipset, new camera tricks, voice recognition, etc. Unlike last year’s model, the Pixel 6a will be released in 14 markets, including India starting July 28. The Pixel 6a will sport a 12.2-megapixel main camera and a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and not the bigger 50MP sensor that we see on the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. The Pixel 6a aims to bring a bit of a calming presence to Google’s mid-range and budget smartphone strategy.

The Pixel Watch

Moving on, Google finally confirms the Pixel Watch after several weeks of tease and leaked photos that have surfaced online. Although today’s announcement isn’t a full reveal, however, it has been confirmed that the watch will arrive later this fall alongside the Pixel 7. Although Google didn’t disclose quite a lot about this hardware, however, reports have confirmed that the hardware will run n Wear OS 3 and offer Fitbit integration. Also, it is made from recycled stainless steel with swappable proprietary bands. It features a “refreshed UI” with better navigation and smart notifications. The first of its kind Google smartwatch is expected to have apps like the Google Maps and Assistant, Google Wallet, and Google Home.

Google’s Forthcoming Pixel Tablet

At the I/O 2022 event, Google teased the coming of the Pixel Tablet. Google is returning to the game with a tablet focused on consumer entertainment, gaming, and other use cases like image processing. The company disclosed that the tablet is coming to fill out the range of Pixel devices and provide a complete ecosystem in Google’s lineup. The Pixel Tablet supports Google’s 2022 “Better Together” initiative. The Pixel Tablet has been confirmed to be available “sometime” in 2023. It’s been a while since Google ventured into making its own tablet, reports say the design of the Pixel Tablet lacks similarity to the Pixel line of phones.

Google’s AR Glasses

At the event, Google revealed its latest AR glasses. The new AR glasses, present a key feature that gives users the ability to see languages translated right in front of their eyes. A very practical application of AR. Although, many details weren’t released about when the AR glasses will be available for purchase, however, Google demonstrated the AR device in a recorded video.

The New Google Pixel Buds Pro

Google announced a new pair of truly wireless earbuds, the Pixel Buds Pro, set for preorder starting July 21st and in stores on July 28th. Reports say the new Buds Pro offers more features than last year’s Pixel Buds A-Series, however, at $199, they’re also twice the price. The Pixel Buds Pro offers active noise cancellation, up to 31 hours of total listening time, spatial audio, wireless charging, and also features an optional transparency mode for when you want to hear what’s going on around you or chat with someone, which is a feature the Pixel Buds A-Series lack. The forthcoming Budpro is set to make listening to select content feel more immersive, as its feature re-creates an experience similar to a surround-sound setup without the need for multiple speakers.

Android 13 

Google touches on the next version of its mobile OS, the Android 13. Coming with Android 13 will be the Material You themes to more places, this theme lets you set apps to function using different languages while also adding security and privacy features. Other packed notable features coming with it will be a new predictive back gesture, new permission to use exact alarms, and better support for Bluetooth LE Audio. The second Android 13 beta will also be available to non-Pixel phones. 

Google Wallet is back 

Google brings back the Wallet app. Wallet used to be a standalone app until retired into Google Pay. This time it’s not just a place to hold just your payment cards, but a place to hold your passes rewards program memberships and vaccination. Users will have the ability to use it across Google’s ecosystem in apps like Google Pay and on the web via Chrome Autocomplete. 

Google Maps To Get All New Immersive View

Google launched a new model for Maps. This new model for Google Maps has been designed by the search giant to give users a more real-life feel of the places searched. The design is characterized by a new Immersive View of a Street View in the sky. The new design provides users with a view of the searched location from above or from the street level. Both views allow users to get a sense of the neighborhood and specific spots users might want to engage with.

Google tries to show its serious about User Privacy

Google had a whole set of security and privacy announcements, including plans for the My Ad Center interface: a hub that will let users customize the types of ads they see by selecting from a range of topics they are interested in or opt to see fewer ads on a given topic. According to The Verge, the company is also focused on implementing additional security features for its products by default, in addition to the concept of “protected computing” to do more processing on-device rather than sending data elsewhere.