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Google set to unveil new smartphones, hardware at Oct 4 event

SAN FRANCISCO — Google sent invitations for an event in San Francisco on Oct 4 where the web company is expected to introduce new smartphones and home-automation hardware, along with other new product upgrades.

Attendees inspect the Nexus 5X phone during a Google media event on Sept 29, 2015 in San Francisco, California. Photo: Getty Images via AFP

Attendees inspect the Nexus 5X phone during a Google media event on Sept 29, 2015 in San Francisco, California. Photo: Getty Images via AFP

SAN FRANCISCO — Google sent invitations for an event in San Francisco on Oct 4 where the web company is expected to introduce new smartphones and home-automation hardware, along with other new product upgrades.

The text of the letter, which includes the phrase ”Ok Google, add to calendar”, suggests a bigger role for the Google Now voice assistant. The invitation also features an animated graphic showing a search bar that morphs into the shape of a smartphone.

The product unveiling by Google, part of Mountain View, California-based Alphabet, follows a eventful period for the global smartphone market. Apple’s new iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, which no longer feature a headphone jack, went on sale last week. Samsung Electronics, the biggest maker of phones that run on Google’s Android software, has been embroiled in a recall involving its Note7, which are prone to overheat and burst into flames. While the timing of Google’s new hardware isn’t a departure from the past, there’s a risk it could be overshadowed.

Google may also introduce a higher-resolution upgrade to its Chromecast media streaming device and new virtual-reality hardware, according to Android Police, a website focused on the mobile operating system.

There are also reports that Google may ditch the Nexus brand for its phones; the company sent a tweet with the hashtag “madebygoogle”. Industry trackers have been expecting Google to show off its own smartphone in October, showcasing the prowess of its new Nougat version of Android software.

Google may stamp its latest smartphones with a “Pixel” brand instead of the “Nexus” name it has used in the past for Android smartphones it has made in collaborations with partners. A Google smartphone would be fielded as a standard to which other’s making Android devices should aspire. An enticing Google smartphone could also prove a contender for the attention of buyers during the prime year-end holiday shopping season. AGENCIES

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