The new Pixel 9 series from Google features remarkable AI capabilities integrated directly into its camera, highlighted by a fresh option called “Add Me.” This innovative function allows users to capture memories across different moments and settings. On the eve of its official launch scheduled for August 22, our journalist had the opportunity to visit the Google Experience Center and try out the Pixel 9 and its exciting new features.
One standout feature that generated significant buzz is “Add Me.” This function includes an “add me” button positioned just below the camera’s viewfinder. By tapping this button, users can effortlessly enter “Add Me” mode. During the demonstration, our journalist snapped a picture of a female staff member, who then stepped out of the frame and was replaced by a male colleague. After taking a second photo, the gallery displayed “Photo 1 + Photo 2.” Once the session concluded, the album showcased three images: “Photo 3,” which is a composite of the first two, along with “Photo 1” and “Photo 2.”
The staff explained that this feature is especially handy for group shots, allowing the photographer to jump in alongside their friends. It also adds a fun twist to photos, enabling users to appear multiple times in the same shot, resulting in amusing images, such as someone giving themselves a hug.
When questioned about the capability to merge human subjects with existing photos saved on the device, the staff clarified that this isn’t possible yet. The two sequential photos must share the same background, though adding multiple people to a scene is entirely feasible.
Another impressive capability of the Pixel 9 series is its ability to change photo backgrounds. Staff demonstrated this by selecting a photo backdrop and entering “starry night” in the AI dialogue box. In moments, the original sunny blue sky was replaced with a stunning AI-generated starry scene. The AI also assists in cropping images into multiple formats for user convenience.
Beyond photography, the AI functionalities of the Pixel 9 series bear resemblance to Apple’s Siri. However, one unique feature of Pixel 9 is that it allows users to save all dialogue in text format. This means users can capture existing text or images, prompting the AI to conduct detailed analyses and reasoning.
The staff also shared that the new Pixel 9 series will come with a one-year free trial of its AI features. After this period, users can expect to pay around $20 monthly for continued access.
