Google Pixel 9 to Unveil Flagship ‘Google AI’ Features: Report

Google is planning to debut a host of new AI and machine learning features with the Pixel 9 lineup, according to a report from Android Authority.

Citing a source within Google, the publication outlined the tech giant’s plans to package several flagship AI features under the new umbrella of “Google AI” with the launch of the Pixel 9 series.

Google has long been focused on AI features for its Pixel devices, with AI capabilities being a key highlight of the homemade Tensor chipsets that have powered everything since the Pixel 6 family. With all the hype around AI right now, this focus has only grown sharper.

“Search, save, and organize info, get things done, and kickstart creativity,” reads a leaked info page for Google AI shared by Android Authority.

It looks like Google AI will combine both new and existing AI features. The info page lists Gemini, the Google-branded AI assistant that’s already available on all Android devices, and Circle to Search, which has made its way to several Pixel models and third-party devices, alongside three entirely new features.

Google AI will introduce a new feature called “Add Me,” which is supposedly designed to make sure that everyone’s included in a group photo. From the sound of things, this could be an improved version of the Best Take feature Google introduced with the Pixel 8 series.

Arguably the most promising part of Google AI is the new Pixel Screenshots feature, which allows users to search through their screenshots using on-device AI. The feature will allow Pixel users to search for specific screenshots, or ask a chatbot questions about their contents.

Google’s Pixel Screenshots almost sounds like a more privacy-focused version of Microsoft’s controversial “Recall” feature for Windows. Instead of indiscriminately recording all of your activity like Recall, Pixel Screenshots only looks through screenshots you have manually captured and granted it permission to access.

Rounding out the new features expected to be included in Google AI is Studio. Judging by its description, Studio will likely be an image (and maybe even video?) generation tool — similar to Apple’s Image Playground — available on Pixel devices going forward.

Last month, Apple announced “Apple Intelligence,” a suite of new AI features coming to iPhones and iPads later this fall. Google AI could be the Pixel-maker’s way of levelling the playing field, even though Pixel devices have had Google’s Gemini chatbot for quite a while now. Google is expected to unveil its new Pixel 9 lineup at a special event on August 13.