Technology
Google launches Pixel 11, its first AirTag rival, and expands Gemini AI across devices
At its Made by Google event, the company unveiled new flagship phones, a tracking device to compete with Apple, and AI-powered features designed to make Pixel devices more intuitive.
TechCrunch — AI
Google held its annual Made by Google 2026 event to unveil an expanding lineup of hardware and software features, including the Pixel 11 smartphone series, a new tracking tag, the Pixel Watch 5, and a suite of Gemini-powered tools aimed at making its devices smarter and more accessible.
Gemini AI gets more capable across Pixel devices#
The company devoted significant time to demonstrating how artificial intelligence will deepen its integration into everyday Pixel experiences. A major accessibility enhancement allows Live Transcribe to recognize American Sign Language, enabling the Pixel camera to convert sign into written text—expanding communication options beyond typed input for deaf and hard-of-hearing users.
Google also introduced Rambler, a natural-language voice feature that processes conversational speech more intelligently. Rather than demanding precisely structured commands, it grasps run-on sentences, verbal fillers, and casual phrasing to interpret intent accurately.
Additional refinements include direct camera-based access to Circle to Search, letting users identify objects, look up distant items, translate text, or ask contextual questions without leaving the camera view.
Pixel 11 standard model brings storage and design upgrades#
The base Pixel 11 receives a slimmer redesigned camera module—more than 40% thinner than its predecessor—with an all-glass surface spanning the phone's width. Storage now starts at 256GB, double the previous entry level and the reason the 128GB tier was discontinued. The price climbs to $899, a $100 increase attributed partly to the doubled base storage and ongoing supply constraints on memory components.
The phone is available in Frost, Hibiscus, Pistachio, and Obsidian finishes.
Pro models emphasize durability and refinement#
The Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL prioritize toughness with improved drop resilience and a new anti-scratch coating offering more than double the scratch resistance of the previous generation. The standard Pro model starts at $1,099 (up from $999), with color options in Canyon, Fog, Olive, and Obsidian—this year featuring a fully matte finish for the Obsidian variant.
