Google I/O is an annual developer conference held by Google. In case you were wondering, “I/O” stands for Input/Output, as well as the slogan “Innovation in the Open”. For Apple enthusiasts, that’s Google’s equivalent of WWDC or the Worldwide Developers Conference.
And although Google I/O has historically been a software-focused event where the most interesting part undoubtedly was the unveiling of the next version of Android, recent years have been different. Especially 2022.
Sure, we still got a word on Android 13 and all of Google’s incredible work improving and evolving its existing app portfolio, but I won’t lie – I was holding my breath for some new hardware.
So, let’s talk about the Pixel 6A, Pixel Buds Pro, and… the Pixel 7 & Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel Watch, and Pixel Tablet?! That’s right. Google over-delivered when it comes to hardware at this event, and I think I might know why…
Not only did Google unveil some long-anticipated products like the Pixel Buds Pro, which I assume are supposed to take after the role of Apple’s AirPods Pro in the Android world, but we also finally got the first A-series phone, the Google Pixel 6A, which carries Google’s new design and brand identity, looking just as iconic as the Pixel 6, released in late 2021.
The Five-Month Early Release for Pixel 7 And Pixel 7 Pro
Then… the crowd pulled out their phones and started snapping pictures of… the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro because those were on the screen. They were being unveiled for everyone to see! As it turns out, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro’s premature 2021 announcement wasn’t an exception to the rule for Google.
The thing is that the Pixel 6 pre-announcement took place after a series (and by ‘series’ I mean a whole season) of leaks were already released by OnLeaks and Jon Prosser in the months prior to the official reveal. Furthermore, the Pixel 6 pre-announcement came about in August – two months before the phones were going to be launched.
Although this year we’ve certainly had a fair share of Google Pixel 7 leaks, they haven’t been as detailed, assuming because there isn’t going to be much new about the Pixel 7 series compared to the current Google flagships. Anyway, the point is that the Pixel 7 hasn’t been as heavily leaked as the Pixel 6.
