Google has scheduled its next Made by Google event for August 12, 2026, in New York City. The livestream kicks off at 3 PM Pacific Time, which is 1 AM on August 13 in Moscow. The spotlight is expected to be on the Pixel 11 series and the new Pixel Watch 5.
The official invite teases ”the next generation of Pixel” phones. According to industry insiders, Google plans to launch four models at once: the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and a foldable Pixel 11 Pro Fold. This lineup echoes Google’s recent strategy of offering a base model, a Pro version, and a foldable device to cover multiple price tiers-aiming to compete directly with Apple’s iPhone and Samsung’s Galaxy series.
One of the most intriguing rumored changes isn’t about the phone’s design but its user interaction. In Android 17 Beta 4, developers discovered traces of a new feature called Pixel Glow. The code suggests it will use ”soft light and color” for notifications, calls from favorite contacts, and responses related to Gemini functionalities when the phone is placed face down. References to ”hardware light elements” hint that Google may be reviving hardware-based light alerts-but this time enhanced by AI.
Outside of this, no dramatic design overhaul is expected. Leaks point to only minor external tweaks, so Google’s presentation will likely focus on software enhancements, Gemini-powered features, and new on-device use cases. This fits a broader smartphone industry trend: the hardware is settling into a familiar shape while major updates come from software and AI-driven functionalities layered on top.
Pricing could shift upward, too. Rumors say component costs are rising, prompting Google to increase the price of the Pixel 11-possibly dropping the 128GB base variant in at least some models. Alongside the phones, Google is also expected to unveil the Pixel Watch 5 in two sizes and refreshed Pixel Buds Pro earbuds, although details on the new headphones remain scarce.
The Pixel 11 series pricing is expected to be:
- Pixel 11 base model starting above previous 128GB price points
- Pixel 11 Pro with increased prices reflecting component costs
- Pixel 11 Pro XL priced competitively within the premium segment
- Pixel 11 Pro Fold as a high-tier foldable device with a premium price
By announcing in August, Google stakes out some breathing room before the busy fall season when Apple and Samsung usually grab the spotlight. We’ll soon find out how much the Pixel 11 series will cost and what Gemini-powered features will set it apart from the Pixel 10.
Google’s move highlights where the smartphone race is headed: the showdown isn’t just about new shapes or materials anymore, but about AI-enhanced software experiences that redefine day-to-day usage. The Pixel 11 and Pixel Watch 5 launches will be an early test of how far Google can push this approach-and how much consumers are ready to pay for it.