Google's next big hardware event is fast approaching, with Made by Google 2024 scheduled to kick off on Aug. 13. It's an earlier date than usual for this annual event, which usually takes place in October.
This doesn't automatically mean there's some exciting news that the tech giant just couldn't wait to share. Google may just be trying to get its new Pixel phones out ahead of Apple's expected iPhone 16 launch in September. But whatever the reason, it looks like we'll get our hands on Google's next devices sooner than initially anticipated.
Here's what to expect from Made by Google 2024.
Made by Google is an annual event unveiling Google's latest gadgets, with the primary focus typically going to the next generation of Pixel phones. They aren't the only devices on the agenda though, with past Made by Google events also featuring Google's Pixel Watch and Pixel Buds.
This year the in-person event will take place at Google's headquarters in Mountain View, California, though it has previously been held in New York and Brooklyn.
Google has already dropped multiple hints regarding what we can expect at its August event, teasing its upcoming devices across social media.
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August's Made by Google event is set to unveil the next generation of Pixel phones, including the Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. As is tradition, a lot about these phones has already been leaked, and rumours about the lineup abound.
Google appears to be changing up its hardware design with the Pixel 9, eschewing the Pixel 8 series' rounded edges in favour of a flatter feel. The Pixel 8's rectangular back camera strip also seems to be out, replaced with a rounder, pill-shaped design.
The Pixel 9 series will of course get a spec boost to go with its new look, with reports of higher megapixel cameras and faster Tensor G4 chips across all models. The Pixel 9 Pro will reportedly have a 4GB RAM increase from the Pixel 8 Pro as well, offering 16GB of RAM to more smoothly run Google's AI chatbot Gemini.
It's likely there will be considerable focus on the Pixel 9 series' AI and Gemini functionality. Even Google's official Pixel 9 Pro and Pro 9 Fold teaser videos focused more on Gemini than the phones themselves, like a parent who makes their child's birthday party all about said kid's younger sibling. While Made by Google is first and foremost a hardware event, AI is currently the undisputed darling of the tech industry, so it isn't surprising that it would get a look in.
We know for certain that the Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro are coming. If rumours are to be believed, they could very well be joined by a Pixel 9 Pro XL.
The last XL variation in Google's Pixel series was the Pixel 4 XL back in 2019, which offered increased screen size and battery life over the Pixel 4. As such, it wouldn't be surprising if the rumoured Pixel 9 Pro XL offered a similar bump over the Pixel 9 Pro.
Even so, early leaks suggest the Pixel 9 Pro XL is even smaller than the Pixel 8, sporting a 6.5-inch screen compared to the latter's 6.7 inches. If true, this could mean the Pixel 9 Pro is smaller still. We'll just have to wait until Aug. 13 to find out for sure.
Google launched its first foldable smartphone at last year's Google I/O event, introducing the world to the Google Pixel Fold. This year the tech giant will follow it up with the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
This is another announcement that we know for certain is happening, with Google having already posted a teaser video saying as much. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold appears slimmer than Google's first generation foldable, with a squarer back camera module replacing its predecessor's rectangular strip. As usual, we can likely expect upgraded specs as well.
Though Google's Pixel 9 phones are undoubtedly the diamonds of this Google season, they likely won't be attending this party alone. Leaks suggest that Made by Google will launch the Google Pixel Watch 3, available in both 41- and 45-millimetre sizes. In comparison, last year's Pixel Watch 2 only comes in a 41-millimetre size.
Some older reports suggest that the Pixel Watch 3's 45-millimetre variant will actually be called the Pixel Watch 3 XL, though the name's absence in newer leaks have cast some doubt on exactly how Google will title these devices.
The Pixel Watch 3 will reportedly have thinner bezels allowing for a larger screen, while said screen will also be twice as bright as the previous model. Google's latest watch may also introduce a new battery saver mode, stretching the Pixel Watch 3's charge to last 36 hours. The device's standard battery life with its always-on display is apparently still 24 hours, the same as the Pixel Watch 2.
Google may also bring out the next generation of its wireless earbuds this August. While details about the rumoured Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 remain scant, leaks suggest that the earbuds will come in at least four different colours: pink, pale green, ivory, and grey (though they'll likely get more fanciful names).
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 case will reportedly be slightly bulkier than the Pro, while the Buds themselves seem to have larger grills. Google also appears to have brought back the Pixel Buds' stabiliser arcs, which are intended to help keep the earphones in your ear.
New smartphones, new earphones, and a new watch would be a lot, but Google may not be stopping there. Made by Google may also introduce a follow up to 2020's Chromecast with Google TV called the Google TV Streamer.
Leaks suggest that the Google TV Streamer has abandoned its predecessor's dongle form factor, opting for hardware designed to sit on a table or entertainment unit. The wide, pill-shaped device's slanted surface makes it look similar to a magnetic phone charger.
The Google TV Streamer may have HDMI, Ethernet, and USB ports, while its remote will have a customisable shortcut button as well as ones for YouTube and Netflix.
Made by Google may be a hardware event, but hardware is nothing without software. Many have been expecting Google to launch Android 15 this August, bringing with it new features such as Theft Detection, a locked space to hide apps, and the ability to add photos to your Google Wallet.
However, recent reports claim that the Pixel 9 series will be launched on Android 14 rather than 15, casting doubt on whether Google's OS system is ready to debut. Android 15 is currently in its fourth and final scheduled beta, with the next update expected to be its official release.
Though even if Android 15 doesn't show up on Aug. 13, it's likely it will appear within the next few months.
Made by Google will kick off on Aug. 13 at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. EST. Fortunately for those of us unable to make it to California, the event will be livestreamed on the Made by Google YouTube channel.
