It’s Friday again, which means the weekend is finally upon us once more. It’s also been a busy week for tech in terms of hardware and software – Google’s Pixel series is back with new phones, and the Epic Games Store has finally launched for Android and iOS. So for those of you out there who somehow managed to miss out on all the recent tech action, here are some of the week’s headlines.
Meet Google’s New Pixel Lineup
First up are Google’s newest batch of smartphones, the Pixel 9 series. The lineup consists of four different phones, which include the standard Pixel 9 model, the Pixel 9 Pro, Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold (that’s quite a mouthful). The phones come with upgrades such as increased RAM, Google’s new Tensor G4 chipset, brighter displays, and in the case of the non-folding phones, newer designs with flat aesthetics and a revamped camera module.
The Pixel Watch 3: Seeing Double
Alongside its new Pixel phones, Google also launched its latest flagship wearable, the Pixel Watch 3. While it retains a look that’s very similar to the Pixel Watch 2 (you could mistake one for the other), it comes in two sizes now, which include a standard 41mm model, and a larger 45mm variant. The Pixel Watch 3 models also come with brighter screens with a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits, and there’s also Gorilla Glass 5 protection for the display.
The Pixel Buds Pro Get an Upgrade
As for audio, Google also launched the Pixel Buds Pro 2, which take over for the original Pixel Buds Pro from 2022. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 feature a design that incorporates a “wing” mechanism, allowing users to adjust the earbuds’ fit within their ear. There’s also a new Tensor A1 chip inside, which Google says should provide enhanced active noise cancellation. There’s also “conversation detection” which lets the earbuds switch up the sound quality when you’re in a phone call, for example.
Meet GameSir’s Marvel-Themed Controller
If you’re a Marvel fan who owns an Xbox (or PC, for that matter), then this one is for you – GameSir recently announced the launch of its new G7 HE Iron Man Limited Edition, a wired controller which is designed to work with Xbox consoles, as well as PC and Steam games. The controller comes with a red and gold paint job as well as a bit of artwork depicting Iron Man, in addition to a removable magnetic faceplate. Also present are built-in vibration motors as well as hall effect sticks and triggers.
The Epic Games Store Rolls Out for Mobile
Last but not the least on this list is Epic – amidst its regulatory battles with tech giants Google and Apple, the Epic Games Store has pushed forward with its launch on mobile platforms. As such, users on Android and iOS (EU users for the latter) will be able to download the third-party app store on their devices. This also marks the return of Fortnite for smartphones, as well as the debut of Fall Guys for smartphones.
