Google’s June Feature Drop Brings AI Enhancements and Handy Features to Pixel Devices
Google’s Pixel Feature Drop for June is here, bringing a range of new features and improvements to Pixel smartphones, Pixel Watch, and the Pixel Tablet. While some features are rolled out widely, others are limited to specific regions and devices. The update, delivered as a 0.97GB security update, highlights Google’s continued focus on integrating AI into its ecosystem, enhancing user experience, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with its Pixel devices. Read on to discover the key improvements and what they mean for Pixel users in India.
Gemini Nano on Pixel 8, Pixel 8a
The Gemini Nano AI model, previously exclusive to the Pixel 8 Pro, is now available on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a. This extension allows these devices to perform more advanced AI-powered tasks directly on the device. For instance, the Summarise feature in the Recorder app is significantly enhanced, offering improved accuracy and the ability to export transcripts to Google Docs. These Pixel models are also gaining the ability to mirror content to external displays using a compatible USB Type-C cable.
Find My Device Offline Tracking, Best Take Expansion
Google has expanded the capabilities of Find My Device with offline tracking. Now, even if a Pixel 8 series smartphone is switched off or has a depleted battery, users can locate it using Bluetooth technology. This feature requires cell service or an internet connection and can track the device for up to 23 hours. The Best Take feature, which automatically selects the best photo from a burst, is also receiving an update. Now, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, and Pixel 6 series phones will gain the ability to swap faces between different photos. This update also includes the convenience of performing a reverse search to identify unknown phone numbers directly from the call log.
Pixel Camera Improvements
The Pixel Camera app is getting a significant improvement, giving users manual control over lens selection for capturing photos on Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel Fold. Previously, the camera automatically chose between the primary and telephoto lenses based on distance, but this update allows users to override this behavior. While the Pixel 8 Pro already introduced this feature with its Pro mode called Lens Selection, bringing it to older models provides more control and flexibility for users.
Car Crash Detection on Pixel Watch, Home App Revamped
The Pixel Watch 2 in India is now equipped with Car Crash Detection, a vital safety feature that can call emergency services and preset contacts after detecting a high-impact car crash. This feature works in tandem with a paired Pixel smartphone as the Pixel Watch’s Wi-Fi might not support all emergency numbers in all countries. Fall Detection, a previously available feature, has also been improved.
Google Wallet is also getting a new feature that will allow users in select countries to link their PayPal accounts, further enhancing the convenience of digital payments.
The Home app on Wear OS has been revamped, allowing users to access Google Home devices with a single swipe on the watch. This provides faster and more convenient control over smart home devices.
Finally, the Pixel tablet is receiving richer doorbell notifications while docked, providing users with more information about visitors. The update also enables two-way communication with the visitor through the device, allowing users to speak to them or send a quick message. However, this functionality requires a Nest Doorbell (wired, 1st and 2nd gen) or Nest Doorbell (battery).
In conclusion, Google’s June Feature Drop brings a host of impactful improvements and new features to Pixel devices. From AI-powered enhancements to improved safety features and refined user experiences, this update showcases Google’s dedication to continuously enhancing the Pixel ecosystem. Although certain features may have regional limitations, this update marks another step towards a more connected and intelligent future for Pixel users.
