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Pixelated

Pixelated is a weekly podcast from the 9to5Google team, bringing you the latest in Google news and our commentary every week.
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Episodes

Welcome Home, Gemini

Hosts Abner, Damien, and Will dive into Google's latest smart home innovations, from the refreshed Google Home app and new gradient icon to the powerful Gemini for Home AI. They discuss Gemini's arrival on older hardware, its impact on voice assistant interactions, and the benefits of AI-powered camera descriptions. The episode also covers the new 2K Nest cameras, the delayed launch of the new Google Home speaker, and critically examines the various subscription tiers for unlocking advanced AI features, weighing their value against potential user fatigue.

Oct 03, 202555 min

A Convergence of ChromeOS Questions

This episode dives into Google's ambitious plan to merge Chrome OS and Android into a "single platform" for PCs, reacting to Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon's "incredible" preview. The hosts express frustration over Google's lack of transparency, especially for enterprise users, and question the value proposition for consumers compared to Windows or macOS. They discuss the critical need for robust app support, Google's past hardware inconsistencies, and speculate if the true motivation is to integrate Gemini AI across all computing categories. The conversation also briefly touches on the early unveiling of the OnePlus 15 and Qualcomm's new chips.

Sep 26, 202546 min

Do smart speakers still make sense in 2025?

Welcome to episode 70 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google. This week, Abner, Damien, and Will talk through their feeling surrounding the upcoming smart speaker Google appears to be readying for launch next month. From whether a Gemini-powered smart speaker fits with what people ask for in their homes to debating if a display is absolutely necessary to make the device worth it, all three hosts work through their feelings on the looming reboot of a once-booming market, and where Google might int...

Sep 19, 202537 min

A Pixel-Apple-Pixel Sandwich

Welcome to episode 69 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google. This week, Abner, Damien, and Will kick off by talking about Pixel sales growth, with a recent Counterpoint report suggest 105% YoY growth for Google's smartphone lineup. After analyzing just what it means for the future of both Pixel and Android, the crew hops over to the other side of the fence to share their thoughts on Apple's latest iPhone lineup. Don't worry, loyal listener — they also make sure to wrap-up with some extended thou...

Sep 12, 202554 min

More M3E for you and me

This episode delves into Android 16 QPR1 and the Material 3 Expressive redesign, highlighting the new Quick Settings layout, system-wide UI consistency, and the MyPixel app. The hosts also explore the potential of Android's Desktop Mode, discussing its gaming capabilities and current productivity limitations. They assess Material 3 Expressive's implementation in Google apps and widgets, and ponder how major OEMs like Samsung will respond to Google's evolving design language.

Sep 05, 202546 min

Pixel 10, one week later

The Pixelated hosts discuss their first week with the Pixel 10 series, noting the familiar design and Tensor G5's AI-centric performance. They delve into new features like Magic Cue and Daily Hub, Pixelsnap compatibility, and the ongoing debate about color choices, thermal improvements, and battery life. The episode highlights Google's strategy for on-device AI and user experience.

Aug 29, 202558 min

A very different Made By Google

This episode features the Pixelated crew breaking down Google's unconventional "Made By Google" event, including its celebrity cameos and Jimmy Fallon as host. They share their impressions of the Pixel 10 series, highlighting camera innovations like ProRes Zoom and the AI's ability to enhance images. The discussion also covers the Pixel Watch 4's unique domed display and internal co-processor, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1, and hints at new Gemini-integrated smart speaker hardware.

Aug 22, 202545 min

A Pixel Pre-order Pickle

The hosts delve into the implications of rumored delays for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Pixel Watch 4, and Pixel Buds 2a, debating Google's hardware release strategy compared to competitors. They also address persistent battery issues with the Pixel 6a, exploring the challenges of maintaining hardware performance alongside extended software support. The episode concludes with a look at Google's new 'Ask more of your phone' ad campaign for the Pixel 10, highlighting its direct challenge to Apple's AI capabilities and Google's focus on software-first innovation.

Aug 08, 202537 min

Oh snap, Pixel 10 has magnets

This episode of Pixelated dives into the latest Pixel leaks, starting with unchanged US pricing for the Pixel 10 and Pixel Watch 4, notably avoiding tariff increases. The hosts confirm Qi2 magnetic charging (Pixelsnap) for the Pixel 10 and discuss the new Pixel Buds 2a. They also touch on the controversial Pixel Watch 4 charger design and the quiet rollout of AI Weather Reports to older Pixel devices.

Aug 01, 202538 min

Pixel 10, now in living color

Welcome to episode 63 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google . This week, the Pixel leaks start comin' and they don't stop comin', as we break down the massive amount of Pixel 10 and Pixel Watch 4 leaks that continue to fall into our lap. Come for the conversation on which colors are doing it for us — and which aren't — and stay for the breakdown on why the Pixel 10 series just might arrive with Qi2 built-in. Plus, what's the deal with foldables, and is the Pixel Watch 4's new charger ridiculous,...

Jul 25, 202550 min

The Pixel 10 countdown begins

Hosts delve into the highly anticipated Made By Google event, focusing on the Pixel 10's likely similar hardware but significant software and AI enhancements, driven by the new TSMC-made Tensor G5 chip. They also discuss the Pixel Watch 4's expected improvements, the Pixel Buds 2a, and new accessories like Pixel Snap, pondering how Google will market these subtle yet impactful innovations. The conversation also touches on the future of on-device AI and the Pixel Fold.

Jul 18, 202542 min

Samesung no more

This episode unpacks Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event, focusing on the new foldable phones and Galaxy Watch 8 series. The hosts discuss the hardware improvements on the Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, the challenges of multitasking on foldables, Samsung's strategy to attract Note users, and the potential of a trifold future. They also share hands-on impressions of the Galaxy Watch 8 models and the promising integration of Gemini AI into Wear OS and Circle to Search.

Jul 11, 202548 min

Much Ado About Nothing

The team dives into the Nothing Phone 3, analyzing its polarizing design, the removal of the signature Glyph lighting, and the introduction of a new mini-LED display. They discuss the phone's positioning as a "flagship," its pricing, and challenges in the US market compared to competitors like Pixel and OnePlus. The episode also covers Google Gemini's new multi-colored icon, exploring what this visual change means for the integration and perception of Gemini within Google's core branding and search products.

Jul 03, 202549 min

The murky future of Chromebooks

This episode discusses the latest ChromeOS updates and new hardware like the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14. The conversation delves into the uncertain future of ChromeOS, exploring Google's potential pivot towards a more unified Android desktop experience. Topics include the challenges of attracting consumers, the need for pro-level apps, and the dynamics with Samsung DeX.

Jun 27, 202544 min

The VIP Pixel Drop

This episode dives into the June 2025 Pixel Feature Drop, highlighting the new Pixel VIPs widget for elevated contacts, the Gboard AI Sticker Creator integrating Pixel Studio, and significant accessibility improvements like the Magnifier's live search and enhanced hearing aid support. The hosts also explore the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update, discussing UI refinements and the ambitious Connected Displays feature aiming for a desktop Android experience. Finally, they debate the merits of Android's evolving Material 3 Expressive design compared to Apple's radical iOS 26 Liquid Glass design language, analyzing their potential impacts on user interaction and future computing paradigms.

Jun 13, 202542 min

Pixelated 057: All About Pixel 10

Pixelated discusses the recent deluge of Pixel 10 leaks, starting with a surprising ad storyboard leak in Canada and the 'Ask more of your phone' tagline hinting at deeper Gemini integration. They also cover leaked prototype details, including minor design changes, the continued use of the Tensor chip and Exynos modem, and the notable absence of UFS 4.0 storage. The episode reviews leaked color options for the base and Pro models, emphasizing their importance for differentiation, and speculates on the likely August launch timeline and the strategy for releasing devices simultaneously.

Jun 06, 202535 min

Post-I/O 2025 thoughts

Hosts discuss the significance of Google Photos turning 10, highlighting the new editor redesign and evolving AI features. They share their post-IO 2025 thoughts, focusing on the futuristic vision and practical applications of AI, particularly the promising Gemini integration in Android Auto. The conversation concludes with initial impressions of the Android 16 QPR1 beta and the debate around the separate Android show.

May 30, 202536 min

Expressions of an Android 16 QPR Beta

This episode dives into the first impressions of Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, highlighting its vibrant and expressive Material You design, customization options like Quick Settings, and overall stability. The hosts also share takeaways from Google I/O 2025, focusing on exciting AI advancements like Gemini and Project Astra's potential for future smartphone control and real-world use cases.

May 23, 202533 min

The Android 16 Show

This episode breaks down the key announcements from Google's Android Show, including the Material 3 Expressive redesign in Android 16 with its new animations and live updates. The hosts also dive into Wear OS 6 bringing the same expressive design and UI improvements to watches, discuss the Find My Device app evolving into Find Hub with new tracking features, and touch on Gemini's expansion across platforms ahead of its expected major role at Google IO.

May 16, 202533 min

Material 3 Expressive and you

This episode dives into Google's leaked Material 3 Expressive design research, discussing the shift towards less uniformity and more unique app UIs compared to Material You. The hosts examine conceptual designs, debate usability versus visual flair, and consider the challenges developers face in adopting significant design changes. The conversation also touches on recent Gemini AI updates ahead of Google I/O and the latest Pixel update.

May 09, 202535 min

The Android Show Show

Welcome to episode 52 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google . This week, we talk about the upcoming "Android Show" and the Android 16 leaks. Subscribe YouTube Podcasts Pocket Casts Spotify Apple Podcasts Overcast Hosts Abner Li Damien Wilde Read more Google hosting ‘Android Show’ with ‘exciting updates’ before I/O 2025 All the leaked Android 16 features not yet available on Pixel [Video] Android 16’s eventual redesign leaks in latest look Listen to more 9to5 Podcasts 9to5Mac Happy Hour Electrek ...

May 02, 202537 min

I/O 2025 pre-preview ft. Android

Welcome to episode 51 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google . This week, we do our initial Google I/O 2025 preview. Subscribe YouTube Podcasts Pocket Casts Spotify Apple Podcasts Overcast Hosts Abner Li Damien Wilde Read more Google posts I/O 2025 sessions list: What’s new in Android, AI, more Google I/O 2025 teases Material 3 Expressive, Android 16 for TV, in-car Gemini To succeed, desktop Android needs Gemini to build a next-gen OS YouTube marks 20th birthday, teases TV app redesign & cust...

Apr 25, 202541 min

Pixelated 050: A Sky Full of Astra

Welcome to episode 50 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google . This week, we talk about the lack of One UI 7 and Gemini Live's Astra camera/screen sharing already going free. Subscribe YouTube Podcasts Pocket Casts Spotify Apple Podcasts Overcast Hosts Abner Li Damien Wilde Read more Samsung posts updated One UI 7 rollout schedule through July amid delay Google makes Gemini Live camera & screen sharing free on Android Listen to more 9to5 Podcasts 9to5Mac Happy Hour Electrek The Buzz Podcast S...

Apr 18, 202533 min

Reviewing the Pixel 9a

Welcome to episode 49 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google . This week, we talk about our review of the Pixel 9a. Subscribe YouTube Podcasts Pocket Casts Spotify Apple Podcasts Overcast Hosts Abner Li Damien Wilde Read more Pixel 9a review: Google’s A-Series is now its own thing Pixel 9a is missing Modes, more as it’s still on Android 15 QPR1 Google on other designs it explored for the Pixel 9a camera Listen to more 9to5 Podcasts 9to5Mac Happy Hour Electrek The Buzz Podcast Space Explored Rapid...

Apr 11, 202546 min

The Pixel 10 comes down to...

This episode of Pixelated discusses the leaked renders and rumors surrounding the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and Pixel 10, focusing on design, camera specs, and the potential impact of Google's hardware and software choices. The hosts delve into the implications of design consistency, accessory compatibility, and the role of the Tensor G5 chip. They also explore the rollout of Gemini AI and its potential to differentiate the Pixel experience.

Apr 04, 202536 min

Where Is My Pixie?

The hosts discuss the rumored "Pixie" assistant and its evolution into Pixel Screenshots and Gemini features, questioning whether Google made the right decision to avoid overlap between the two AI projects. They also delve into Google's move to develop Android OS entirely behind closed doors, and explore the challenges of marketing AI to average users.

Mar 28, 202533 min

Pixel 9aches and pains

En el episodio, se discuten las primeras impresiones del Pixel 9a, destacando su diseño único, los materiales, y la diferenciación de la serie A. Se exploran las características clave, incluyendo la batería y el rendimiento de la cámara, además de analizar el retraso en el lanzamiento y la disponibilidad del dispositivo.

Mar 21, 202536 min

Cast Another Day

En este episodio, se discuten varios temas importantes. Se explora la posibilidad de jugar juegos de PC en Android y las estrategias de Google en la industria del juego, incluyendo el futuro de los juegos móviles. También se aborda el problema del Chromecast, su compatibilidad y la actualización a Android 14, además de la integración de Gemini con Chromecast y la expansión de las funciones gratuitas de Gemini.

Mar 15, 202533 min

Gemini, Add Astra

This episode of Pixelated dives into the announcements from MWC 2025, focusing on Google's Gemini Live and the new features rolling out. The hosts discuss the potential of Gemini's screen and video sharing capabilities, Android's growing presence at MWC, and the latest Pixel Feature Drop, including connected cameras and satellite SOS expansion. They also explore the updates for Pixel Watch and the future of Wear OS.

Mar 07, 202532 min

Chromecast flies the Nest

In this episode, the hosts discuss the discontinuation of the Chromecast, the potential for cheaper Google TV streamers, and the role of smart TV interfaces. They explore integrating Gemini into Google TV and the possibility of TVs becoming smart home hubs, while considering the future of Nest speakers and other Google hardware. The conversation also touches on Google's partnerships and the potential for a Google-branded TV.

Feb 28, 202535 min
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