Google’s new Pixel 11 puts Gemini at center of AI phone battle with Apple

Google Pixel 11 LaunchSource: GoogleAlphabet on Wednesday unveiled its new Pixel 11 smartphone lineup, putting its most agentic version of Gemini yet at the center of the devices just weeks before Apple is expected to roll out a rebuilt Siri powered by Google's AI models.The new lineup includes the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL and Pixel 11 Pro Fold. But Google's hardware pitch leans just as heavily on Gemini Intelligence — a suite of artificial intelligence features designed to understand what a user is doing on the phone and take action across different apps.For example, Gemini Intelligence can connect information from messages, calendars, maps and other Google services, then suggest or carry out next steps, such as checking availability, comparing travel options, or beginning a restaurant reservation. Google is also expanding AI features that work directly inside the phone's operating system, rather than requiring users to open a standalone chatbot.Rick Osterloh, Google's devices chief, told CNBC in an exclusive interview that the company believes AI could fundamentally change how people interact with smartphones."For the last 10 to 15 years, not a lot has changed in h...