Google has just released and updated new features for its Android mobile system and PIxel devices. Overview.
On Android
Expressive captions convey the intensity and emotion of a voice, including details like the whisper of a secret or the cheers of a victory. These captions work in all Android apps, including videos, social posts, and streaming.
Enriched image descriptions with Gemini
The Lookout feature, with Gemini 1.5 Pro, offers detailed image descriptions. Take or open a photo to hear the caption read in a natural voice, and ask questions to deepen your understanding. This feature is now available worldwide.
Remixed Stickers and Clearflow Keyboard
Create fun sticker combinations, like ????+❤️, with Emoji Kitchen in Gboard. Also enjoy the Clearflow keyboard, designed for fast and precise typing.
Easy sharing with QR codes
Share your photos, videos and documents using QR codes via Quick Share. Select a file, generate a QR code, and let other users scan it for a quick, secure transfer without adjusting your sharing settings.
Improved scans in Google Drive
Document scans with Google Drive benefit from automatic enhancements for a cleaner, clearer result. Take a photo and save it in a format optimized for documents like receipts or business cards.
Gemini extensions for more connections
Gemini offers extensions that integrate with the apps you love, like Spotify for managing your playlists, apps for sending messages, and controlling your settings. Coming soon: smart device control and rich information on Google Maps.
Pixel news on phone and tablet
On Pixel 9 series
The Pixel 9 series features a redesigned Pixel Screenshots app, now integrated with Gboard, Circle to Search and Google Wallet, with automatic categorization filters and design tweaks. Stickers created in Pixel Studio are now compatible with Gboard (English).
The Recorder app adds a “Clear Voice” option to reduce background noise. Instagram’s built-in camera supports Ultra HDR on the Pixel9, 9Pro, 9Pro XL, and 9Pro Fold. Call Screen, enhanced by Gemini Nano, offers context-sensitive responses for situations like delivery instructions.
Foldable Pixel devices
Portrait mode on the Pixel Fold and 9 Pro Fold now allows you to display a dual-screen preview of you and your subject. Made You Look is available on both models, while the Pixel Fold gets the new Joy character from Vice-versa.
Google USA
Tablette Pixel
With Android 15 QPR1, the Pixel tablet gains lock screen widgets and official access to Google’s VPN.
All Pixel Phones
For Pixel 6+ (US English), live transcriptions of automatic Call Screen sessions now allow you to answer or reject calls at any time. Now Playing history displays album art and identifies songs not recognized by Google Search.
Gemini extensions for Messages, Phone, Spotify, and Utilities are rolling out, and Gemini Live is expanding to other languages. List here.
Advanced subscribers can use the saved information, and control of connected devices via Gemini will be available soon. Identity Verification (Beta) adds security by requiring facial or fingerprint authentication for sensitive actions in unfamiliar locations.
The December 2024 Pixel Feature Update is rolling out via system and app updates starting today.
