Google’s track record with teasers at I/O events has been somewhat inconsistent. The company tends to alternate, providing sneak peeks one year and then holding back the next. This pattern could give us clues about what to expect at the Google I/O 2024 scheduled for May 14.
In May 2022, Google surprised us with “early previews” of the Pixel 7 series and its first-ever smartwatch, the Pixel Watch. It also gave us a glimpse at the then-upcoming Pixel Tablet. This wasn’t the case at the previous year’s I/O event, where there was no sign of the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. However, this strategy appears to have been generally successful, allowing Google to introduce new hardware on its own terms.
Last year, during I/O 2023, fans anticipated a potential teaser for the Pixel 8 lineup alongside the Pixel Watch 2. However, Google held back, potentially setting the stage for an early reveal this year.
If Google follows its pattern, we could be treated to teasers for the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro at the I/O 2024. With some design details already circulating through leaks, an official I/O teaser could set the record straight on the rumored changes to the camera design and probably even highlight some key features. Naturally, a mention of the new Tensor G4 chip would be exciting, especially if it promises significant performance and AI upgrades. Camera improvements are always a point of interest for Pixel loyalists, particularly given the buzz around a potential new camera bump design.
The probability of a Pixel Watch 3 teaser is also high. Google’s handling of the Pixel Watch releases mirrors the pattern of its flagship phones. As noted earlier, the Pixel Watch was teased at the I/O 2022 alongside the Pixel 7. But there was no mention of the Pixel Watch 2 at last year’s event, so I/O 2024 seems a likely stage for a Pixel Watch 3 sneak peek. Anticipated upgrades might include a faster chip with UWB support for Watch Unlock, more size options, and improved battery life. However, we likely shouldn’t expect dramatic design changes this early in the Pixel Watch’s lifecycle.
It’s worth noting that teasers risk impacting the sales of existing Pixel devices. This potential trade-off might be part of Google’s calculations as it decides whether or not to give us exciting glimpses into its future hardware plans.
Teaser history:
- Google I/O 2021: No Pixel 6 teaser
- Google I/O 2022: Pixel 7 and Pixel Watch teased
- Google I/O 2023: No Pixel 8 and Pixel Watch teaser
- Google I/O 2024: Pixel 9 and Pixel Watch 3 teaser?
Do you think Google will tease the Pixel 9 and Pixel Watch 3 at the upcoming I/O 2024? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Hillary Keverenge
2117 Posts
Tech has been my playground for over a decade. While the Android journey began early, it truly took flight with the revolutionary Lollipop update. Since then, it's been a parade of Android devices (with a sprinkle of iOS), culminating in a mostly happy marriage with Google's smart home ecosystem. Expect insightful articles and explorations of the ever-evolving world of Android and Google products coupled with occasional rants on the Nest smart home ecosystem.
Next article View Article
