Google to unveil new hardware, smartphones on October 4

California: Google sent invitations for an October 4 event in San Francisco, 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 Note 7, 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.’