Like most different model loyalists, Pixel followers every have their very own definition of when the smartphone line was at its “finest” based mostly on components similar to their preliminary consumer expertise, the accessible {hardware} and software program on the time, pricing, and so forth. However taking a more in-depth take a look at the numbers although, plainly this 12 months might need been the most effective for Google’s gadget collection to date.
READ: The Pixel 9 might need stolen a few of Apple’s iPhone market share
It needs to be famous that Google’s transition to its Tensor chipsets again in 2021 was seen each as a stepping stone and downside by some, and whereas the succeeding years weren’t the smoothest for Pixel customers, we’ve seen some vital progress and progress with the Pixel model. 2024 positive wasn’t excellent both, however listed below are some components as to why we expect that this 12 months is a big milestone of kinds for Google’s flagship smartphone vary.
First up now we have the Pixel 9 collection telephones – Google’s newest flagship units include newer designs which characteristic an general extra refined look, and are powered by the Tensor G4 chipset. The Tensor G4 isn’t a robust chip, however its key energy is offering the Pixel 9 with enhancements when it comes to general effectivity, battery endurance and thermal administration, particularly in comparison with earlier Pixel fashions.
Google additionally claims that its new telephones have posted spectacular gross sales numbers, which within the context of its Pixel {hardware} vary is fairly commenadable. So far as gross sales are involved, Pixels have by no means been dominant within the general smartphone panorama, but it surely’s good to see them make progress when it comes to market share. Google’s Pixel Watch collection has additionally seen a “glow-up” of kinds with the brand new Pixel Watch 3 fashions, addressing points from the primary era such because the poor battery life and restricted measurement choice.
2024 wasn’t solely nice for the Pixel 9 collection – in case you missed it, Google introduced that it was extending software program help for a number of of its older Tensor-powered telephones. Which means that customers who personal any of the Pixel 6 collection, Pixel 7 collection, in addition to the unique Pixel Fold will obtain two extra years of Android upgrades, an important transfer on Google’s behalf, and albeit one thing that extra manufacturers ought to observe.
READ: How Lengthy will your Pixel Cellphone Maintain Getting Updates?
With that being mentioned, not all has been clean crusing to be trustworthy. As an illustration, whereas Gemini and AI on Pixel units typically have been spectacular, it’s clear that there’s nonetheless loads of room for enchancment, particularly in terms of how Gemini works as an supposed substitute for Google Assistant. Even built-in options like Pixel Studio and Magic Editor are fairly restricted in terms of precise usability. I can’t rely the variety of occasions I’ve seen the error message “Magic Editor can’t full this edit” present up on my display with even the only of edits.
I can’t rely the variety of occasions I’ve seen the error message “Magic Editor can’t full this edit” present up on my display with even the only of edits.
There’s additionally the case of Google’s ill-fated Pixel Pill collection. Whereas the Pixel telephones and watches acquired all the eye, the Pixel Pill was simply form of there within the background, sometimes getting reductions and even a re-release which removes the dock from the retail bundle. Information that Google has now cancelled a would-be pill successor doesn’t bode too nicely for the corporate’s nth try at launching and committing to a pill product line, which now has followers questioning if it can ever launch a brand new pill once more.
Quirky AI and pill woes apart, Google’s Pixel collection has seen some vital enhancements this 12 months, and with information of upcoming {hardware} transitions (similar to a much-anticipated change to TSMC) on the horizon, loads of Pixel followers – together with yours actually – are wanting ahead to the following era of Pixel units. Many fingers are crossed, and so they’re crossed actual tightly.
