Google has just announced a new June Feature Drop for Pixel devices, introducing some exciting new features that users are sure to love. These updates are starting to roll out today and will be available over the next few weeks, as explained by Mikaela Kraft, Product Marketing Manager for Pixel.
Here’s a rundown of some of the key features included in this latest update:
– Gemini Nano is now available for Pixel 8 and 8a, Google’s AI model that can be enabled as a developer option in the device settings. This feature was initially launched for the Pixel 8 Pro back in December and is used in the Recorder app summaries and Smart Reply in Gboard.
– The Recorder app on Pixel 8 and 8a now includes a Summarize feature that delivers detailed, downloadable summaries on-device. It can even detect speaker names, improving conversational transcripts that users can export into text files or Google Docs.
– Pixel 8a, Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro now have the ability to display content on larger screens like computer monitors via USB-C.
– Find My Device has been updated to locate phones even when they are off or have a dead battery while keeping location data encrypted and private.
– The Pixel camera now automatically selects the best moment in HDR+ photos to ensure faces are in focus and smiling with just one shutter press.
– Pixel 8 Pro users can now perform reverse phone number searches directly from their call log.
– Google Wallet has expanded to India, allowing more users to securely store and access items like boarding passes, loyalty cards, and tickets.
– The Pixel camera now allows manual selection of camera lenses for greater control over photos.
Moving on to Pixel Watches:
– In honor of National Safety Month, the Pixel Watch 2 introduces Car Crash Detection. This feature checks on the user after a severe car accident and can automatically dial emergency services if there is no response. It also integrates with Emergency Sharing to notify contacts and share real-time location.
– Users can now link their PayPal account to Google Wallet for easier payments on their Pixel Watch. Additionally, the Google Home app has been revamped for faster access to smart home devices directly from the watch.
And lastly, for Pixel Tablets:
– Richer doorbell notifications are now available when docked in hub mode on Pixel Tablets. Users will get a snapshot of who is at the front door with options for two-way talk or quick responses.
– A new Google Home Favourites widget allows quick access to smart home devices from both phone and tablet home screens.
It’s always exciting to receive software updates that enhance our existing devices. Be sure to keep an eye out for these updates coming soon to your favorite Pixel devices!
