With Google’s new Pixel phones costing extra for AI features and Apple’s iPhone 16 soon to be released, it’s worth holding off a bit longer.
New Google tech coming to its biggest show of the year
Google’s got a lot of exciting new products in the works, and we’re just days away from getting our first glimpse at its big I/O tech show. While artificial intelligence (AI) is likely to be a significant focus, all the latest news about chatbots has muddied the waters for some exciting Google hardware, too.
We’ve dug through the rumor mill to find the real diamonds in the rough. Here’s what we’re most excited about at Google I/O 2023.
More Pixel phones, but not the flagship
Google always showcases exciting new Pixel handsets at its I/O shows, so we’ll almost certainly see something new this year. Just a few months from the Pixel 7’s release, though, it’s probably not going to be the next-generation Pixel 8 or 8 Pro. Sorry.
What we may see instead is the Pixel 7A. That might not be set to break boundaries, but Google’s more affordable handsets are some of its best. High-end Android features in an affordable handset? Sign us up.
AI, AI, AI
Yes, AI will be a key component in Google’s I/O show. It’s been playing catchup since the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, and Bard just hasn’t made the kind of waves Google wanted. But this AI revolution is just starting, and Google should have much to discuss.
It’ll almost certainly discuss adding generative AI into some of its services, like Docs and Sheets. We’ll likely hear about how Bard will revolutionize Google search, too. We might even hear about Chrome having a built-in AI of its own.
Pro tip: Get better at using Google Sheets now, without AI, with our favorite tricks.
A bigger Pixel
Nobody makes a tablet as good as the iPad. Not yet, at least. Google’s Pixel Tablet could be gunning for that top spot. It’ll need to do something extraordinary to dethrone the iPad, especially with the latest versions using Apple’s excellent in-house M2 processors.
But Google has carved out niches for itself before. An Android tablet with Pixelbook quality and Chrome OS snappy performance? Color us interested.
All the ways to turn on your Android's flashlight
Who knew there were so many ways you could activate the flashlight on your Android phone? You’re going to love these Android shortcuts. Several can even be used for other useful commands.
Read on for all the ways to turn on your device’s flashlight and more.
Android 13 is here — If you have this phone
Apple’s iOS 16 will launch later this year. Updates include the ability to edit and unsend texts and check if anyone has your passwords. Tap or click here for more on what to expect with Apple’s next mobile operating system.
Android 12 security settings to update ASAP
Apple fans have been enjoying impressive new updates for the latest iPhones for some time, packed with fun new features. However, the highlights of the iPhone updates were the updated security settings.
Despite an additional launch in October, Android users have waited patiently for Android 12 to roll out similar updates. Originally the update went out just to Google Pixel phones. Tap or click here for seven things you didn’t know your Android could do.
A mysterious error is bricking this popular Android phone
When you get a new phone, you naturally want to explore every function and see what it can do. It doesn’t matter if it’s an Android or iOS device, as the models are constantly updated with new features. Tap or click here for five new phone security settings that feel like secrets.
This Android app can measure your heart rate using your phone's camera
Given the current global pandemic, a great emphasis is placed on personal health. Knowing your heart rate is a great way to keep track of blood circulation and oxygen levels. Especially with COVID-19, having enough oxygen in your blood is critical to your brain’s functions.