Google announced a range of updates for Pixel and Android devices as part of its December feature drop, which includes new Gemini extensions, improvements to the Pixel Screenshots app, expressive captions, and accessibility enhancements.
Android Updates:
Google is introducing new Gemini extensions for services like Spotify, Messaging, Calling, and Smart Home. These will let users explore music, send messages, or make calls through Gemini. Soon, Gemini will also allow users to control smart home devices. Additionally, Gemini Advance will now remember user preferences, such as dietary needs, to make personalized suggestions like recipes.
The Lookout app, designed for the visually impaired, will benefit from Gemini 1.5, enabling image Q&As with voice and AI-generated captions.
Android devices are also getting expressive captions, which describe emotions such as [whispering], [cheers and applause], and [groaning]. Google Drive is receiving an auto-enhancement feature for photos and videos, which adjusts things like white balance and contrast. There will also be a QR code in the share sheet for photos and videos and new emoji sticker combos in Gboard.
Pixel Device Updates:
Pixel devices are gaining a new easy-to-operate mode with larger font sizes and improved touch sensitivity. A new theft protection feature will require biometric authentication for changing sensitive settings in certain locations. Additionally, the Snap app is adding a new photo picker to show all folders and cloud photos. The share sheet is now improved to display album art for songs detected by the Now Playing feature, and call screening has been enhanced to allow users to view AI-agent interactions with callers.
These updates will be available for all Pixel devices starting with the Pixel 6. Pixel 9 devices will also get contextual smart replies for calls and enhanced features in the Pixel Screenshots app, such as automatic categorization, improved search filters, and the ability to add saved screenshots to Google Wallet.
The new Pixel 9 series will also support HDR photos for Instagram, provide clearer voice recording in the Recorder app, and display Pixel Studio stickers in Gboard. The Pixel Fold and Pixel 9 Pro Fold are receiving dual screen portrait mode and the “Made You Look” feature for better photo framing.
Pixel Watch and Tablet Updates:
The Pixel Watch 2 will integrate with Nest Cam or Nest Doorbell notifications, allowing users to see who’s at the door. The loss of pulse detection feature will be expanded to Pixel Watch 3 users in Germany and Portugal. Fitness readings, including cardio load, will be available for multiple watches, including Pixel Watch 1–3 and others.
The Pixel Tablet will gain support for VPN and lockscreen widgets, rounding out the list of new features.
These updates are rolling out across various devices, enhancing functionality and usability for Pixel and Android users.
Post a Comment