In 2024, Made by Google made significant strides in enhancing the Pixel phone experience, rolling out a series of updates that introduced new features and redefined existing functionalities. The updates, which occurred on six occasions throughout the year, encompassed everything from routine operating system enhancements to the introduction of entirely new applications.
January Feature Drop
The year commenced with a noteworthy January Feature Drop, coinciding with the launch of the “Mint” Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Among the standout features was the Pixel Thermometer app, which now allows users to record body temperature readings directly from their foreheads, seamlessly integrating with the Fitbit app. Additionally, the launch of Circle to Search on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, along with the exit of Photomoji and Magic Compose from beta in Google Messages, marked a significant evolution in user interaction. The rebranding of Quick Share from Nearby Share also received attention, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.
March Feature Drop
March brought a return to the regular update cadence with another Pixel Feature Drop, aligning with the release of Android 14 QPR2. This substantial update introduced an expandable Bluetooth Quick Settings Tile and a Material You volume slider, enhancing user control. New options for casting and screen sharing allowed users to capture a single app, while the Call Screen feature gained a “Hello?” button to engage callers more effectively. The Pixel Tablet also saw the introduction of the Gboard Voice Toolbar, facilitating speech-to-text functionality without the need for a full keyboard.
June Feature Drop
June was marked by the early launch of the Pixel 8a, which introduced Audio Emoji in the Pixel Phone app. The Pixel 8 series received a more significant update, featuring Display Port Support for external screen connectivity via USB-C. The Gemini Nano technology was rolled out to enhance features such as Recorder Summarize and Gboard Smart Replies. Camera improvements included enhanced HDR+ frame selection for the Pixel 6+, while the Pixel 6/7 Pro and Fold models benefited from Manual Lens Selection. However, the Android 14 QPR3 update was relatively minor, focusing on various tweaks within the Settings app.
Pixel 9 Series Launch
The launch of the Pixel 9 series marked a departure from previous norms, as it debuted alongside Android 14. Notably, several features from the Android 15 Beta were backported to the new devices. Google introduced three innovative applications: Pixel Screenshots, which allows users to index and easily recall their screenshots; Pixel Studio, an image generator utilizing advanced AI technology; and Pixel Weather, a user-friendly weather app that offers AI summaries and customizable backgrounds. The introduction of Gemini Live and the on-device Call Notes feature further enhanced the Pixel experience, providing users with conversation summaries and improved call quality.
Android 15/October Drop
The October Drop introduced Android 15, featuring a Private Space option and Predictive Back functionality enabled by default. Users enjoyed a redesigned screenshot interface and a new Home Controls screen saver. The Pixel 9 series gained underwater photography capabilities, while all devices received a dedicated Night Sight slider. The Adaptive Vibration feature was also enhanced to adjust sound levels based on the user’s environment, improving the overall user experience.
December Drop
As the year drew to a close, Google wrapped up its updates with the December Drop and Android 15 QPR1. This update included a Material You redesign for Settings, charging optimization features, and enhancements to the Pixel Screenshots app, which now integrates Gboard and Google Wallet. The Pixel Recorder received a clear voice feature to minimize background noise, while Gemini saw a broader rollout of contextual replies across various applications. Notably, the Pixel Camera introduced Dual Screen Portrait Mode for foldable devices, enhancing photography capabilities. Additionally, Google announced an extension of Android OS updates for the Pixel 6 and 7 series, ensuring continued support for users.
