Google Launch Night In is over and done with, and we got pretty much everything we expected – from the new mid-range Pixel 5, to the Pixel 4a 5G, the new Chromecast with Google TV and Google Nest Audio. Here’s a recap of all the new goodies and make sure to let us know your fave.
While you’d be forgiven for just calling #LaunchNightIn a Google Pixel event, the most exciting product was arguably outside of the new phones. Nevertheless, the Pixel phones do mark a sea change for Google’s handsets, ditching the ultra-premium flagship market for something more modest – but will it work?
The other devices we are talking about are Google Nest Audio and Chromecast with Google TV. The former is a taller and more audio-focused edition of the Google Nest Mini while the latter finally brings an interface to the Chromecast lineup.
We’ve got all the details regarding the Pixel 5, Pixel 4a 5G and more below but you can also watch the full live event right here, if you’ve got time on your hands:
Read this: Check out our Google Pixel 4a Recombu review
Google Pixel 5
The new Pixel 5 is a complete reimagining of what a Google flagship should be, opting for the mid-range Snapdragon 765G processor rather than a top-of-the-line 800 chip and a more refined yet humble design. Don’t fret, despite a tightening of the belt, you still get that sweet 90Hz OLED panel.
You’ll also be getting a decent 8GB RAM and 128GB storage onboard, coming in a neat recycled aluminium package that includes some hijinkery that allows for regular and reverse wireless charging.
The new Pixel 5 benefits from a new camera setup, ditching the telephoto from Pixel 4. There’s a 16MP main sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide. Google Pixel’s are known for their impressive cameras so it will be interesting to see how this combo stacks up.
Google Pixel 5 is available in Sorta Sage (Green) or Just Black for the modest sum of £599. You can pre-order now and it’s set to be shipped come mid-October.
Google Pixel 4a 5G
You might think Google’s new phone is just a Pixel 4a with 5G crammed in but you’d be extremely wrong. The new Pixel 4a 5G is closer to a 4a XL or 4a S model, if we’re attempting to explain it beyond that “5G” suffix.
What you get is quite surprising. The 4a 5G package includes the same processor and camera setup as the new Pixel 5, meaning the new 5G model will definitely outperform its 4G sibling.
The compromises come in the form of a 60Hz panel, but it’s a sizeable 6.2-inches, and you also get the same plastic back as the 4a. You do get a headphone jack, a feature that’s missing on the Pixel 5.
The price remains pretty attractive at £499, despite being a hefty bump up from the £349 price of the regular Pixel 4a. There’s also just one colour option – Black – despite rumours of a new White option. If you want the Pixel 4a 5G, you’ll have to join the waiting list and it’ll be being shipped come November 19.
Chromecast with Google TV
The product which we hinted at earlier as the most exciting addition is the new Chromecast with Google TV. The new device finally adds an interface to the Chromecast and, much like Apple TV, Google aims to make it easy to manage all your streaming services in one place.
The remote looks like a joy compared to the Apple TV remote, offering capacitive buttons – including dedicated YouTube and Netflix buttons.
Support for Google Stadia is notably absent but Google has said that the feature coming in 2021. What the new streaming device does support is 4K HDR, 60fps, Dolby Atmos, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision.
You can pick up the new Chromecast with Google TV for £59.99, with pre-orders are open right now.
Google Nest Audio
Last but not least (well, maybe, but that’s up to you… vote below!) is the new Google Nest Audio. The new speaker takes the Nest Mini and stretches higher for added audio capabilities.
The new speaker features a 75mm woofer and 19mm tweeter, offering sound that’s 50% stronger and can reach 75% louder volume.
Google Nest Audio will, of course, feature Google Assistant and work with all your Google Home stuff. The new model is available from October 15 from a price of £89.99.
That’s the end of your swift journey through the Recombu preview of Google’s Launch Night In, but don’t go yet. Make sure to cast your vote below on the product you’re most excited for:
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