Google Pixel 4 release date: New phone to be unveiled within weeks as launch event is confirmed

Three new phones could arrive at New York launch event

Google took the unusual step of unveiling its new Pixel 4 smartphone on Twitter ahead of the official release date (Google)

Google has revealed the launch date of its new phone, the Pixel 4.

It will be shown off at a launch event in New York City on 15 October, according to an invitation sent to the press.

The same message also included a note asking people to come and see "a few new things" that Google has made, suggesting that there will be other new products in addition to the Pixel. In the past, Google has used its Pixel launch events to show off new smart speakers, Chromecasts, and other products.

Google will almost certainly show off two versions of the new phone: the Pixel 4 and the bigger Pixel 4 XL, in line with recent years. It might also launch a special 5G version, it said.

The company tends to hold its launch events in October, soon after the release of the iPhone, and so the rough schedule for the launch event had long been expected. But the announcement confirms the exact release date, and suggests the phones should be available soon after.

The Pixel 4 has become the worst kept secret in technology, with leaks detailing just about everything that is coming in the new phone. Google even opted to show off the phone itself, revealing the new device by publishing some information about it on its own website.

Leaks have suggested the new phone will have a vastly improved camera – with the addition of an astrophotography mode for taking pictures of the stars – as well as a motion-tracking feature that allow users to control the phone by waving at it.