Google’s Pixel Feature Drop for June: AI-Powered Features and More
Google’s latest Pixel Feature Drop for June is rolling out to devices in India, bringing a wave of new features and improvements to the Pixel ecosystem. The update, delivered as part of a 0.97GB security update, enhances the AI capabilities of Pixel phones, expands the functionality of Find My Device, and adds handy features to the Pixel Watch and Pixel Tablet. However, it’s important to note that not all features are available to Indian users.
Gemini Nano Expansion and Improved AI Features
The most noteworthy addition in this Feature Drop is the expansion of Gemini Nano, Google’s on-device AI model, to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a smartphones. This means these devices can now leverage Gemini Nano for more advanced AI-powered features. The Summarise feature in the Recorder app, for instance, now works better thanks to Gemini Nano, providing improved results and allowing you to export transcripts directly to Google Docs. The update also allows all new Pixel models to mirror content to an external display, requiring a compatible USB Type-C cable and display.
Find My Device Offline Tracking and Best Take Expansions
Google has enhanced Find My Device with offline tracking capability, a welcome addition for users who have misplaced their phones. This feature can locate your Pixel 8 series smartphone even when it’s switched off or has a dead battery. It utilizes Bluetooth technology and requires cell service or an internet connection for the most accurate results. Google claims the feature can help locate your device for up to 23 hours without power, providing peace of mind in emergency situations.
The Best Take feature, which automatically selects the best photo from a burst, now extends to the Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, and all Pixel 6 series smartphones. The update also introduces the ability to perform a reverse search directly from the call log, offering a convenient way to identify unknown phone numbers.
Pixel Camera Improvements and Lens Selection
The Pixel Camera app has received a welcome improvement, allowing users to manually select which camera lens they want to use while taking photos. This is a significant addition for the Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel Fold, which feature telephoto cameras. Previously, the camera automatically selected a lens based on distance, limiting user control. The Pixel 8 Pro introduced Lens Selection, a Pro mode option that gives users complete control over their shots. This allows for better control and less reliance on digital cropping for zoom, delivering higher-quality images.
Car Crash Detection on Pixel Watch and Home App Improvements
The Pixel Watch 2 now boasts Car Crash Detection, a crucial safety feature that automatically calls emergency services and designated contacts after detecting a high-impact car crash. This feature requires the Pixel Watch to be paired with a Pixel smartphone for its full functionality. Fall Detection, a feature already available on Pixel Watch, has also been improved. In specific regions, Google now permits users to link their PayPal accounts to Google Wallet, simplifying online payments.
The Home app on Wear OS has received a significant revamp, allowing users to quickly access Google Home devices with a single swipe. Finally, the Pixel Tablet now offers richer doorbell notifications when docked, providing users with a clear view of visitors and enabling communication through the device. This feature relies on a compatible Nest Doorbell to operate effectively. Users are also advised to update individual Google apps and services through the Play Store after installing the June Feature Drop.
Conclusion
Google’s June Feature Drop for Pixel devices is a testament to the company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the user experience with innovative software updates. The addition of Gemini Nano to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a, the expansion of Find My Device functionality, and numerous camera and application upgrades highlight Google’s focus on improving AI capabilities and user convenience. While not all features are currently available in India, the release offers a positive glimpse into the future of the Pixel ecosystem. We can expect to see continuous improvements and AI-driven features as Google continues to integrate its latest technologies into their Pixel devices.
