Google’s annual I/O conference is setting the tech world on fire as the company is rumored to launch a plethora of products this year. One of the most talked-about launches is the rumored Pixel Fold, the company’s first foldable phone. According to various rumors, the Pixel Fold will come in either obsidian (black) or chalk (white) and be priced at around $1800. The device may be released as early as June 27th. Aside from the foldable, the Pixel 7A is also expected at I/O. This budget-friendly device was reported to cost $499 and feature the same processor found on its flagship counterpart.
The other two heavily rumored products at I/O are the Pixel Tablet and the new Android 14. The Pixel Tablet is expected to come with a separate dock that can be used to transform it into a smart display while Android 14 has been described as being friendlier to both foldable phones and tablets.
Google I/O 2023 will take place on May 10th, but unfortunately it is not open to the public and press attendance is also limited. Those who wish to watch can register on the official website and follow the livestream.
The company also plans to showcase its AI developments as it attempts to catch up to OpenAI ChatGPT. Google’s AI product Bard didn’t prove to be as successful as predicted, and the search engine Bing was recently revamped to utilize the same AI technology behind ChatGPT. As a result, Bing has seen 16% growth. It is expected that Google will announce new products and discuss how its AI engines surpass the competition.
Google is expected to shed more light on its AI-powered search engine Magi. It is currently unclear if Google will officially reveal or hint at the product but it is unlikely that the product will be given a full public unveiling.
Stephen Shankland is a CNET journalist covering Google I/O and will be one of the few press members to attend this year. Stephen is known for his keen eye and comprehensive analysis on the tech industry having served as a tech journalist for over two decades.
