Google’s Annual Hardware Launch: What to Expect at Made by Google 2026
It’s that time of year again! On Wednesday, Google will host its annual Made by Google hardware launch event, showcasing the latest Pixel gadgets. The company has already teased exciting new slab-style and foldable Pixel smartphones, along with an updated watch. Speculations suggest that the event may also reveal a new color for the popular Pixel Buds and possibly a brand new item tracker akin to Apple’s AirTag.
Interestingly, the event will take place in the evening this year, starting at 6 PM ET / 3 PM PT. This is a shift from the traditional early afternoon or mid-morning schedule typical of tech launches. Adding to the buzz, the event will feature comedian Trevor Noah as the celebrity host, which might attract a broader audience.
Unusually, the Google Store homepage features a preorder countdown for the Pixel 11, set to end at 10 AM ET on Wednesday — several hours before the actual launch event. This could indicate that details about Google’s new devices will be revealed long before the formal event kicks off, potentially adding to the excitement and strategic marketing approach.
What to Expect
For those interested, the event will be available to watch live on YouTube.
A leaked marketing render of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. Image: Evan Blass
Google has hinted at new phones while promoting the event, including shadowy glimpses of updated Pro and foldable smartphones. However, these new models are anticipated to be largely iterative updates. The expected lineup includes the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold. Based on leaks, they will resemble the Pixel 10 lineup but may feature enhanced camera bars and richer colors.
One exciting new feature might be a glowing light on the camera bar, called “HiLight,” which can be customized to indicate calls from selected contacts and might also interact with Google’s Gemini AI when engaged.
A tease from Google showing the new light. Image: Google
Under the hood, the phones are expected to be powered by the new Tensor G6 chip, utilizing TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm process. If this holds true, the Pixel 11 series will be one of the first smartphones equipped with this advanced technology, offering enhanced performance and energy efficiency. Additionally, Google may increase the base storage for the Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro to 256GB, a significant upgrade from the previous 128GB standard.
However, there are whispers that the starting prices for the entire Pixel lineup will see a hike, attributed to the ongoing memory crisis affecting global supply chains.
A leaked marketing render of the Pixel Watch 5. Image: OnLeaks and The Tide Chart
The Pixel Watch 5 has also been teased, with hints of new color options and potentially a significant upgrade in storage capacity. Reports indicate the watch may feature 64GB of storage, double that of its predecessor. It’s also expected to integrate Google’s Gemini Intelligence, promising a pro-active assistant experience and improved sleep tracking accuracy.
However, pricing is expected to increase as well; the new models may start at around $399, compared to previous models which began at $349.99.
Introducing New Accessories
A leaked marketing render of new Pixel Buds. Image: Evan Blass
Google originally launched the Pixel Buds Pro 2 in 2024, and it seems the company might simply introduce a new color this year instead of a full refresh of the product line. A recently leaked image shows the earbuds in a stylish olive green that harmonizes with renders of the upcoming Pixel 11 models.
Rumored Pixel Tag Item Tracker
An image apparently showing off the Google Pixel Tag. Image: 9to5Google
Moreover, Google is rumored to unveil the Pixel Tag, an AirTag-like item tracker that could follow in Apple’s footsteps. The initial leaks suggest it has an oval shape, distinguishing it from Apple’s circular design. It is expected to integrate seamlessly with Android’s Find Hub network, though detailed features and pricing are yet to be confirmed.
Future Announcements
While there are also rumors surrounding new Googlebook laptops and smart glasses, these are likely to be revealed at a later date, as the focus remains on the Pixel announcements this week.
For updates and live coverage of the launch, keep an eye on tech platforms and Google’s official channels.
Update, August 11th: Clarified that Google has officially teased the Pixel Watch 5. Stay tuned!
Find out more about these developments Here.
Image Credit: www.theverge.com
