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Google’s ninth Made by Google event took place on August 13, 2024. It introduced the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2, while making Gemini the organizing software story. Google’s event roundup is available at Google’s Made by Google 2024 collection.
This recap separates what Google announced from what shipped later, labels US launch prices, and explains the limitations around Gemini, health features and regional availability.
What Google announced on August 13, 2024
The presentation followed a clear sequence: Gemini and Pixel AI, the Pixel 9 phones, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2. The Fold had been previewed before the event, so August 13 was its full product launch rather than its first public appearance.
| Product | US launch price | Availability announced | Main distinction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pixel 9 | $799 | August 22, 2024 | Standard flagship Pixel |
| Pixel 9 Pro | $999 | Configuration and market dependent | Pro cameras in a 6.3-inch body |
| Pixel 9 Pro XL | $1,099 | August 22, 2024 | 6.8-inch Pro model |
| Pixel 9 Pro Fold | From $1,799.99 | September 2024 | Foldable with an 8-inch inner display |
| Pixel Watch 3 | $349.99–$499.99 | September 10, 2024 | 41mm and 45mm Fitbit-focused smartwatch |
| Pixel Buds Pro 2 | $229 | September 26, 2024 | Tensor A1 earbuds with ANC and Gemini features |
Prices and dates above are US launch signals, not August 2026 prices or a guarantee that every configuration launched in every country.
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- The power behind AI on Google Pixel - Google Tensor G4 is Pixel’s fastest, most powerful chip yet. It powers Google’s AI for innovative camera features, seamless multitasking, and more help throughout the day.
- Gemini. Your built-in AI assistant - Gemini helps you supercharge your ideas. Hold the power button to start writing, planning, learning, and more.
- A camera that unfolds a world of creativity - With a flexible design, powerful triple rear camera system, and advanced AI, it’s easy to snap brilliant selfies, take incredible group pics, and add custom edits.
- Opens smoothly, stands solidly - Use Pixel 9 Pro Fold lying flat or in multiple standing positions. And count on its sturdy hinge to hold up fold after fold.
- Meet your new dream screens - Immerse yourself in entertainment and ease through daily tasks with the 80% brighter 8" Super Actua Flex inner display and 6.3" Actua outer display. The largest display on a phone.
Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL
Google used the Pixel 9 generation to split its Pro strategy into two sizes. The Pixel 9 Pro has a 6.3-inch display, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL has a 6.8-inch display; both use Tensor G4. The Pixel 9 is the lower-priced standard model. Google’s specifications and launch timing are detailed in its Pixel 9 Pro XL announcement.
How the phones differ
- Pixel 9: the entry point for buyers who want the Pixel camera and Google software without Pro pricing.
- Pixel 9 Pro: the choice for Pro camera hardware, more RAM and advanced display features in a relatively compact body.
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: broadly the same Pro philosophy in a larger format, with more screen and battery capacity.
All three use Google’s new camera-bar design and Tensor G4. Camera and AI capabilities can vary by model, country, language and software version, so “Pixel 9” does not mean every feature is identical across the range.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Google’s tablet-sized Pixel
Google positioned the Pixel 9 Pro Fold as its thinnest foldable at launch. It combines a 6.3-inch outer display with an 8-inch inner display and Tensor G4. The full announcement is documented in Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold release.
What the inner screen enables
- Split-screen paired apps for repeat multitasking setups.
- Drag-and-drop photo handling between compatible applications.
- Dual Screen support in Google Meet.
- Fold-aware viewing such as multiview in YouTube TV.
- Fold-specific camera experiences, including Made You Look.
That makes the Fold primarily a productivity and media device: the inner display is useful for reading, video, video calls and two-app workflows. Its $1,799.99 starting price means it is difficult to justify for someone whose use is mainly messaging, social apps and conventional phone photography. Its cameras are not the same as those in the Pro slab phones, and foldable hardware brings additional weight, repair and durability considerations. App optimization also varies.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold with Gemini has the largest display on a phone and brings you the best of Google AI first, so you can do more, effortlessly[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Unlock Gemini Advanced for a year at no cost to you; get access to even more powerful AI features with the Google One AI Premium plan, a total value of $239 at no cost to you[8,9]
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the thinnest foldable available[3]; it features a silky matte glass back, a redesigned camera bar, and a scratch-resistant display
- Take brilliant selfies and incredible group pics with Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s advanced triple rear camera, flexible design, and innovative AI; use tabletop mode for tripod-free astrophotography and group pics
Google’s one-pager says the Fold receives seven years of updates from the device’s first US Google Store availability. That is a software-support statement, not a promise of seven years of trouble-free hinge or screen hardware. See the Pixel 9 Pro Fold one-pager for the attributed support claim.
Gemini became the Pixel experience’s center of gravity
Google presented Gemini as the default assistant on Pixel 9 phones, callable with the power button or “Hey Google.” Gemini Live was designed for conversational exchanges: users could interrupt, pause and return to a discussion, including hands-free use while the phone was locked or the app ran in the background. Google announced ten voice options.
Connected apps and Pixel AI
- Extensions for Google Keep, Tasks and Utilities.
- Expanded YouTube Music integration.
- Add Me and other generative photography and composition tools.
- Pixel Screenshots assistance for finding and using saved information.
- Enhanced zoom and video features announced for Pixel devices.
Google’s Gemini announcement said Gemini Live initially rolled out in English to Gemini Advanced subscribers on Android, with iOS and additional languages to follow. Its Pixel AI roundup lists 14 AI capabilities across Pixel phones, Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2.
Availability can depend on device, account, country, language and subscription. Some features require Gemini Advanced or Google One AI Premium, and “built in” does not mean every operation runs on the phone. Internet access may be required, and generated answers can be wrong, so important information still needs checking.
Rank #3
- The power behind AI on Google Pixel - Google Tensor G4 is Pixel’s fastest, most powerful chip yet. It powers Google’s AI for innovative camera features, seamless multitasking, and more help throughout the day.
- Gemini. Your built-in AI assistant - Gemini helps you supercharge your ideas. Hold the power button to start writing, planning, learning, and more.
- A camera that unfolds a world of creativity - With a flexible design, powerful triple rear camera system, and advanced AI, it’s easy to snap brilliant selfies, take incredible group pics, and add custom edits.
- Opens smoothly, stands solidly - Use Pixel 9 Pro Fold lying flat or in multiple standing positions. And count on its sturdy hinge to hold up fold after fold.
- Meet your new dream screens - Immerse yourself in entertainment and ease through daily tasks with the 80% brighter 8" Super Actua Flex inner display and 6.3" Actua outer display. The largest display on a phone.
Pixel Watch 3: two sizes and a stronger Fitbit focus
Pixel Watch 3 arrived in 41mm and 45mm cases, with brighter, larger displays. Google estimated up to 36 hours of battery life and said the 45mm model gained battery capacity over its predecessor; the 41mm model was advertised as charging 20% faster. The official specifications and pricing are in Google’s Pixel Watch 3 announcement.
| Model | US launch price |
|---|---|
| 41mm Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | $349.99 |
| 41mm LTE | $449.99 |
| 45mm Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | $399.99 |
| 45mm LTE | $499.99 |
Fitness, ecosystem and safety features
- Daily Readiness, Cardio Load and Target Load through deeper Fitbit integration.
- Remote Pixel camera control and smart-home controls.
- Voice notes and other Pixel-connected functions.
- Loss of Pulse Detection, intended to detect a sudden loss of pulse and begin an emergency-calling process.
Loss of Pulse Detection is not a general-purpose heart monitor, diagnosis or guarantee that emergency services will be contacted. Detection can fail; calling depends on connectivity, region and device configuration. LTE and Bluetooth/Wi-Fi models also differ in how independently they can communicate. Check Google’s safety documentation before relying on the feature, and do not treat it as a substitute for emergency services or medical care.
Choose 41mm or 45mm primarily by wrist fit and screen preference. Bluetooth/Wi-Fi is usually the simpler option when a phone is nearby; LTE adds independence but may require compatible carrier activation and a recurring plan.
Pixel Buds Pro 2
Pixel Buds Pro 2 introduced Google’s custom Tensor A1 chip and were described as the first Pixel Buds built for Gemini. Google said they were about 24% lighter and 27% smaller than the previous generation, with twice as strong active noise cancellation. The earbuds launched in Porcelain, Hazel, Peony and Wintergreen for $229, with availability set for September 26, 2024.
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- Your built-in AI assistant helps you supercharge your ideas. Hold the power button to start writing, planning, learning, and more.
Google’s claimed battery figures were up to eight hours with ANC enabled and up to 30 hours with the case. Those are manufacturer results under stated test conditions, not independent measurements; volume, calls, spatial audio, connectivity and ANC use change real-world endurance. Details are in Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 announcement.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Android 15 and Wear OS context
Pixel 9 was presented as a showcase for Android’s Gemini integration, while Pixel Watch 3 fit Google’s Wear OS 5 ecosystem story. The Android Developers recap covers adaptive app experiences for the Fold and Wear OS 5 support at Android Developers.
Android 15 features such as Private Space, theft protection and improved large-screen multitasking were part of the broader platform rollout, not all same-day Made by Google launches. Google’s Android 15 announcement is at Android 15. The broad Pixel rollout began October 15, 2024.
Which device made the most sense?
For a conventional phone buyer
Pick Pixel 9 when price matters most. Pick Pixel 9 Pro for Pro cameras in a smaller body, or Pro XL when a larger display and battery matter more than compact ergonomics.
For a foldable buyer
Pick the Pro Fold only if you will regularly use its 8-inch inner screen for multitasking, reading, video or calls. Otherwise, a slab Pixel avoids the premium, additional hardware complexity and camera compromises.
For a watch buyer
Decide first between case sizes, then between phone-dependent Bluetooth/Wi-Fi and LTE. Confirm Android compatibility, carrier support and any Fitbit service requirements in your market.
For an earbud buyer
Pixel Buds Pro 2 make the strongest case for people already using Android and Google services who value ANC, Gemini access and ecosystem switching. Their launch claims should not be treated as independent laboratory results.
What the event meant
Made by Google 2024 was less a single breakthrough launch than an attempt to connect phone, foldable, watch and earbuds through Gemini, Fitbit and Android. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold was the boldest hardware statement; Gemini was the broadest platform change; Pixel Watch 3 added a larger size and more prominent health features. Every buying decision still depends on local availability, supported languages, subscriptions and the difference between Google’s launch claims and independently verified performance.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
