Google’s back with another feature drop for its Pixel lineup of phones, tablets, andwatches. The updates, some of which have already been announced atMWC 2024, start rolling out next week and will bring brand-new features to thePixel 7,Pixel 7 Pro,Pixel 8,Pixel 8 Pro, andPixel Fold. Additionally, some older Pixel phones and tablets will be getting features previously only available in more recent models.
Some of the changes will be obvious, such as new Call Screening features or the addition of Fast Pair to older Pixels, while other features – such as Circle to Search or camera improvements for third-party apps – might be less noticeable. Below is what you may expect from the latest feature drop once it reaches your Pixel phone.
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1Amazing photos and videos, directly on Instagram
Impress your followers with high-resolution Reels
One of the selling points of the Google Pixel is its ability to capture stunningUltra HDRphotos and videos, but the impressive camera wasn’t initially integrated with social media apps. In the past, when you tried taking a picture or recording a video via Instagram, the quality would be lower than photos and videos captured with the Camera app.
Now, you can directly record and share 10-bit Ultra HDR photos andInstagram Reels. You no longer have to record and upload high-quality videos separately. You can just create new videos through the app like normal.
2Improvements to next gen Call Screen
Tap ‘Hello’ to get callers talking
Google has made a minor but useful improvement to theCall Screenfeature. If the caller is silent during call screening, you’re able to tap the newhellobutton and Google Assistant will prompt them to speak. There’s also an option to let the caller know you can’t answer at the moment, but you’ll be available soon.
This feature is coming to thePixel 6and newer models. For now, it only works in English in the US.
3Circle to Search expands to Pixel 7
Search for anything on your screen
Circle to Searchwas introduced for the Pixel 8, but it’s now coming to the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. With this feature enabled, you may circle anything on your phone’s screen to search for it online. See a picture of someone wearing a cute dress you like? Circle it with your finger or the stylus to search for it. If Google finds it, you can buy one for yourself. It’s a similar concept toGoogle Lens, except you’re searching for objects on your screen rather than objects in the real world.
4Partial screen sharing
Screen sharing is already built intoGoogle Duo, but it has just gotten much more convenient. Now, when you share, cast, or record your screen, you’ll have the option to show a single app rather than your entire display. This change applies to the Pixel 5a and newer phones, as well as thePixel TabletandPixel Fold.
5Fast Pair
Quickly connect Bluetooth accessories
Fast Pairis a feature of newer Google phones that helps users quickly set up Bluetooth accessories they’ve used on other devices. Fortunately for users who have yet to upgrade, Fast Pair is now supported on the Pixel 5a and later phones, in addition to the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold.
6Google Doc markups
Make handwritten notes in Docs
The new markups feature makes it easier than ever to edit Google Docs on your mobile device. Instead of using the on-screen keyboard, you may now use your finger or stylus to make handwritten notes in the Google Docs app. There are multiple colors and highlighters to choose from, allowing for highly detailed feedback.
Google Doc markups will be available to all Android users running Android 8 or higher. If you don’t already have a stylus, check out our guide to thebest Google Pixel stylus pens.
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7Gboard Voice Toolbar for Tablets
Save screen space with voice typing
Once exclusive to newer Pixel devices, theGBoardvoice toolbar is coming to all Android tablets with Gboard 13.9 and up. While voice typing is active, the on-screen keyboard is minimized, which saves valuable real estate on a small screen.
