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New for Pixel 9
The introduction of the Pixel 9 series brings an exciting new feature: the Gemini Extension for Pixel Screenshots. This innovative tool allows users to retrieve information from their saved screenshots simply by saying, “Hey Google, use Screenshots to find [the brand of sneakers I saved].”
Additionally, the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL are equipped with a remarkable underwater photography capability. The devices can now automatically recognize when they are submerged, enhancing the quality of photos and videos taken underwater. This feature allows users to utilize any waterproof case while swimming or snorkeling, resulting in more vibrant and accurate colors.
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New for all devices
The Pixel Camera is set to enhance astrophotography with a new dedicated slider in Night Sight mode. Users can now tap the shutter button and have five seconds to stabilize their phone before capturing stunning images of the night sky.
Android 15 introduces a suite of features aimed at enhancing security and user experience. The Theft Protection suite and Private Space features will be available, along with Widget Discovery in the picker. Adaptive Vibration technology will help minimize noise in quieter settings by utilizing the microphone and other sensors to adjust sound levels based on the environment. This feature will be applicable to ringtones, notifications, and alerts on the Pixel 7 and newer models.
Furthermore, Night Sight is now accessible within Instagram for Pixel 6 and newer devices (excluding the A-Series), while Gemini Live is expanding its reach to Brazil, Denmark, India, Japan, and South Korea.
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Pixel 9 features coming to older devices
Exciting updates are also on the horizon for older Pixel devices. The Pixel Weather app will soon be available for Pixel 6 and newer models globally, featuring a new pollen tracker that breaks down levels of grass, tree, and weed pollen in countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and the UK.
Moreover, the Pixel Thermometer UI, which debuted with the Pixel 9 series, will be introduced to the Pixel 8 Pro. This update will include a camera viewfinder and the ability to save recent temperature measurements for up to seven days.
The Audio Magic Eraser feature, which allows users to adjust the volume of specific sounds and voices, will also be rolled out to the Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a.
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The Next Gen Call Screen feature is also expanding to Japan and the UK for Pixel 6 and newer devices. This update includes a more human-like voice and real-time transcription capabilities. In the UK, users will benefit from improved automated replies for confirming appointments and reservations, allowing them to skip the hassle of phone calls.
Pixel Tablet Drop
The Android 15 Pixel Drop extends its enhancements to the Pixel Tablet as well. Notifications dismissed on a Pixel phone will now also be removed from the Pixel Tablet, and vice versa, provided this feature is enabled in Settings and the devices are connected via Wi-Fi.
In addition to the Home Panel screen saver, the Pixel Tablet will introduce new clock designs in Hub Mode. The Google Photos screen saver has become more interactive, allowing users to share, favorite, or archive their photos seamlessly.
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Lastly, Google has confirmed that the UWB-powered Tap to Cast feature, first announced at the beginning of 2024, will be rolled out in the coming weeks.
Pixel Watch Drop
The Pixel Watch is set to receive a new Individual Contact Tile, featuring a profile image alongside shortcuts for calling and messaging.
Additionally, Gmail for Wear OS will now support sending and selecting emoji reactions as replies, enhancing the user experience.
The loss of Pulse Detection on the Pixel Watch 3 will expand to three more European countries: Belgium, Italy, and Spain, joining the ranks of Austria, Denmark, France, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
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