What you should know
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- Google confirmed that Gemini Nano, a powerful AI model, will not be coming to older Pixel devices like the Pixel 8 due to “hardware limitations”.
- The company hinted at a wider expansion of Gemini Nano to “high-end devices in the near future”, indicating that premium smartphones may eventually receive these AI features.
- The Pixel 8 Pro, unlike the regular Pixel 8, has the necessary specs, such as 12GB of RAM, to run Gemini Nano, setting it apart with exclusive AI features.
- Updates to the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 and 9300 chipsets, optimized for Gemini Nano, suggest that mid-range non-Google devices could also integrate these AI features.
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Full Story
Oh, bummer of a day for the tech enthusiasts among us, huh? Especially those clinging to their older Pixel gadgets with hopes high and dreams big. They were all jazzed up about getting their hands on Gemini Nano. That’s Google’s latest brainchild, a mobile-friendly AI model that’s been the talk of the town. Or, well, the tech forums, at least.
So, here’s the scoop. Initially, this shiny new toy was a Pixel 8 Pro exclusive. Yeah, you heard that right. Only the Pro got to flex its AI muscles, leaving the rest of the Pixel family in the dust. And guess what? It seems like that’s not changing anytime soon.
Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty, shall we? Google dropped this bombshell on the Android Developers channel over on YouTube. There was this episode of The Android Show, where they chat about all things tech. They covered MWC 2024, Android 15, and, of course, Gemini Nano.
When the topic of Gemini Nano popped up, the Google folks were pretty clear. No dice for the Pixel 8, folks. They blamed “hardware limitations,” which sounds like a polite way of saying, “Upgrade your phone, buddy.” But hey, they did tease us with talks of expanding to other “high-end devices” soon. So, there’s a sliver of hope, right?
Now, let’s talk specs. The regular Pixel 8 versus the Pro is like comparing a tricycle to a sports car. Okay, maybe not that dramatic, but you get the idea. The Pixel 8 packs 8GB of RAM, while the Pro struts around with 12GB. That extra RAM is probably why the Pro gets to play with Gemini Nano and the regular doesn’t.
And here’s a juicy tidbit. MediaTek’s been busy bees, updating their Dimensity 8300 and 9300 chipsets. Why? To get cozy with Gemini Nano, of course. This could mean that some mid-range phones, not just the high-and-mighty Google ones, might get a taste of AI goodness.
What’s the big deal with Gemini Nano on the Pixel 8 Pro, you ask? Well, it powers a bunch of cool features. We’re talking about a smarter Recorder app, nifty replies in Gboard, and even some magic for your photos and videos. It’s like giving your phone a superpower, but only if you’ve got the Pro.
This whole situation kind of sets the Pro models apart from their less fortunate siblings. It’s like Google’s way of saying, “Wanna play with the cool kids? Get the Pro.” It’s a classic move – dangle the carrot and watch us all drool.
So, what’s next on Google’s agenda? Will the Pixel 9 get the cold shoulder too? And will that be enough to make folks jump ship to the Pro? Guess we’ll just have to twiddle our thumbs and wait for the next Made by Google event to find out.
