Google’s latest Pixel feature drop is finally here, bringing major updates and exciting new features for Pixel users. The update is the Android QPR1 with the December 2024 security patch. From extended OS support to some exciting new features, here’s the complete rundown of what’s new.
Pixel 6 & Pixel 7 Get 5 Years of OS Updates
Google has confirmed a big win for Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 users—an additional two years of OS updates. This bumps the total updates from 3 to 5 years, which means these devices stay relevant and secure for longer. It’s a nice holiday gift from Google because we rarely see brands delivering more than the initial promise.
ALSO READ: Pixel 6 And Pixel 7 Users Rejoice As Google Extends Software Support To 5 Years: Check Details Here
Feature Highlights
Now, let’s talk about the features. There are quite a few. Some of them are exclusive to the Pixel 9 series, some exclusive to the foldables, while some are available for all Pixel users. There’s also something for non-Pixel users. Let’s dive in.
1. Gemini AI Spotify Extension
Gemini now extends with Spotify, allowing users to play songs and perform tasks with voice commands.
2. Expressive Captions
An update to Live Captions, this feature enhances video captions by detecting emotions like gasps, cheers, and applause for a more human feel.
ALSO READ: Samsung’s One UI 7 Beta Program Is Finally Live With Upgrades To Galaxy AI
3. Automatic Call Screening View
This feature lets you preview conversations between the caller and an AI agent. You can decline calls anytime during screening.
4. Suggested Replies for Call Screening
Available on Pixel 9 with Gemini Nano, this will suggest quick response options during call screening.
5. Pixel Screenshots Update
- Screenshots are now automatically categorized for better organization.
- New search filters make it easier to find specific screenshots.
6. Save Circle to Search
You can now tap and hold on the searched area to save your search.
7. Now Playing Upgrade
Adds album art display for detected songs in the Now Playing history. Finally.
ALSO READ: Smartphones Launching in December 2024: OnePlus 13, Redmi Note 14 Series & More
8. Suggested Items in Gboard
Suggests movies, music, products, and more based on screenshots from the Pixel Screenshots app, exclusive to the Pixel 9 series.
9. Emoji Kitchen Gets Better
Includes expanded emoji mashups in Emoji Kitchen, which look so much better. It will be available for all Android devices using Gboard. There’s also a new pizza mashup with certain emojis. As an Emoji Kitchen fan, this is huge.
10. Ultra HDR for Instagram
You can also now post Ultra HDR photos directly to Instagram, now available for the Pixel 9 series too. Earlier, it was limited to the Pixel 7 series and later (excluding the A lineup).
11. Snapchat Photo Picker
Snapchat finally uses Android Photo Picker instead of Snapchat’s gallery, improving security and seamlessness. This should also be coming to other Android devices, I believe.
12. Made You Look
Adds a new animation when taking photos on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold with Made You Look.
ALSO READ: Samsung’s Next Generation of Foldables to come with larger displays
13. Dual-Screen Portrait Mode
The dual-screen portrait mode, initially introduced on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, is now available on the original Pixel Fold as well.
14. Clear Voice Mode
This is a new voice mode in the Recorder app, which reduces background noise during audio recordings.
15. Simple View Mode
This new mode increases font size and touch sensitivity, making apps easier to navigate for old or differently-abled people. It’s available for Pixel 6 and newer devices.
16. Pixel Studio Stickers in Gboard
Earlier only available in the Pixel Studio app itself, the stickers will be available to save on Gboard and then used anywhere you like.
Rolling Out Now
The feature drop is already rolling out to Pixel 6 and later devices. Make sure you go to Settings > System > Software update and install the latest update. What do you think of the December 2024 Pixel Feature Drop? What’s your favorite feature? Let us know in the comments below.
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