• Google reportedly developing "Pixie," a Pixel-exclusive AI assistant powered by the new "Gemini" language model.
• Pixie's launch is expected on Pixel 9, with potential expansion to lower-end devices and wearables.
• Google shifting focus from ubiquitous Assistant availability to building a premium AI experience on its own hardware.

Pixel-Powered Pixie: The Information's report suggests Google's AI strategy is evolving. Instead of pushing Assistant everywhere, the company might be prioritizing a more personalized, device-specific approach. Pixie, powered by the advanced Gemini model, could offer deeper, context-aware interactions exclusive to Pixel devices.

Eyeing Hardware Integration: The report also mentions Google exploring "glasses that could make use of AI's object recognition." This aligns with Google's past eyewear ventures and hints at ambitions to integrate AI capabilities into its hardware ecosystem, creating a seamless user experience powered by Pixel and Pixie.

Moving Away from Assistant Everywhere: The financial struggles of Assistant on non-Google devices seem to be driving this shift. With Pixie, Google might be aiming for a more controlled, premium AI experience tied to its hardware, potentially offering a stronger monetization path through device sales and integrated services.

Taking on the iPhone?: The report suggests a bold ambition within Google – to challenge the dominance of iOS through superior hardware and AI integration. Whether this strategy succeeds remains to be seen, but it marks a significant pivot in Google's approach to AI assistants and its broader hardware ambitions.

The Future of AI Assistants: Google's move towards a Pixel-exclusive AI assistant raises questions about the future of Assistant on other platforms. While it might still be available on Android and other devices, the focus on Pixie suggests Google might be prioritizing a more integrated, hardware-centric approach. This could have implications for the broader AI assistant landscape, with other players potentially following suit and developing their device-specific offerings.