On Thursday, Google unveiled its Pixel Feature Drop for October 2024. These periodic Feature Drops are designed to enhance Pixel devices by introducing a variety of new features and enhancements. This latest update brings new functionalities for Pixel Phones, Pixel Tablets, and Pixel Watches, alongside the stable release of Android 15 for all Pixel devices. A key highlight of this Pixel Drop is the introduction of Gemini, which offers expanded usability across multiple languages. Additional enhancements include AI-driven camera upgrades and new safety features.
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Google Pixel Drop October 2024: Availability
The October Pixel Drop along with a stable version of Android 15 started rolling out to Pixel devices yesterday itself (October 15). These updates will reach Pixel phones, tablets, and watches gradually within the next few days.
Google Pixel Drop October 2024: Features
More Ways to Use Gemini on Pixel Devices
- Gemini can now be used to talk on Pixel Buds. Earlier the feature was limited to Pixel Buds Pro 2 which has now been extended to all Pixel Buds models. You can use Gemini to get directions, email information, or brainstorm on Pixel Buds Pro, Buds A-Series, or Pixel Buds. To start using it all you have to say is “Hey Google, let’s talk”.
- Gemini Live is now available for free in languages like German and Portuguese.
- Gemini now allows you to search through Pixel screenshots to look for specific photos. You can key in “earrings I saved in screenshots” and it will locate all your saved earring images for you to look through.
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Feature Drop for Pixel Smartphones
1. Audio Magic Eraser- Pixel feature drop includes an audio magic eraser on Pixel 8 and newer phones. The tool will help remove distracting sounds from videos and it can be used to isolate specific sounds, adjust volume levels, or enhance voices for clearer audio. It can save videos that have been recorded with distracting sounds to make them perfect for future viewing. The sounds might be of howling winds, noisy crowds, hum of the fan or AC, and more.
2. Astrophotography in Night Sight- Google has rolled out an update to Night Sight which allows capturing of stunning and crystal clear night sky images on Pixel 6 and newer devices. With this mode, users can capture stunning starry nights, and vibrant moon on a full moon night. It can be accessed from Night Sight Slider by choosing the Astro option. After choosing the option, tap on the shutter button post which will take 5 seconds to set the phone down facing the sky.
3. Night Sight for Instagram- You can now use Instagram’s camera to click better low-light images directly within the app.
4. Underwater Photography- Pixel 9 series comes with better underwater photo and video capabilities. It can be done by using any waterproof case to capture more detailed and accurate colors during activities like swimming, snorkeling, diving, and more. Video recording is also made richer and more accurate with this feature.
5. Thermometer app updated- The Thermometer app can now use the camera’s viewfinder to target specific surfaces to get live real-time temperature readings. It can be used on the Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. The results can be referenced later via the device.
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6. Widget Finder- There is a more personalized widget finder in Pixel 6 and newer devices. All you have to do is long-press your home screen, and you will get suggestions for widgets in categories like Social and Entertainment. There will also be a preview of how the widgets will look on your screen.
7. Theft Protection-Theft Detection Lock will use AI motion sensors to lock your device if someone tries to steal it. For instance, if someone snatches your phone from your hand and tries to run, you can lock the screen of your phone. Remote lock is also available which will secure your phone within minutes. This will give you time to recover your accounts. Pixel 6 and newer devices get this feature.
8. Call Screen improved- The Call Screen has now received a more natural sounding voice and real-time text display of what callers are saying. It allows the users to reply to appointments and reservations without answering. This feature has been rolled out in select countries UK and Japan.
9. Privacy Improvements- The Android 15 stable version is now available for Pixel 6 and newer phones. This comes with a Pin-protected space for apps having private or sensitive content. This separate space is created so that one doesn’t want others to see it and keep them protected with a separate PIN.
10. Vibration Adjustment options- Pixel 7 and newer devices including the entire Pixel 9 series have now received automatic adjust vibration levels for ringtones, notifications, and alerts based on one’s environment. This means one can hear your phone in noisy environments and not be interrupted in spaces like a library when sounds aren’t allowed.
11. Pollen Tracker for Seasonal Weather Allergies- Google has rolled out a new pollen tracker in the Pixel Weather app. The tracker can track pollen levels for users in the UK, Germany, Italy, and France as of now. This helps manage the seasonal allergies of users. The tracker also takes into account AQI and humidity levels and is available on Pixel 6 and newer devices. I personally am waiting for this feature to roll out in India as it can be a lifesaver for people like me who encounter severe seasonal allergies on stepping out of the house.
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Feature Drop for Pixel Tablets
1. Unified Notifications- You can now dismiss notifications on one device and it will clear up on other your other Pixel devices as well. This is applicable for Pixel Phones and Pixel Tablets and needs WiFi connectivity. The feature has been rolled out to Pixel 6 and newer devices.
2. Smart Home Controls- If your Pixel Tab is sitting idle, it can be used to access smart home device controls and camera feeds using the home screensaver feature. The feature will work when the smart devices you use are compatible with a Pixel tablet. These are sold separately and one will have to look for compatibility before installing them. Photos can be shared directly from digital photo frames and you can select from new stylish clock designs to fit the aesthetic of your space.
3. Media Casting- Pixel Tablet users can seamlessly transfer media to their Pixel phones by bringing the phone close to the tablet. Transfer can include Spotify or YouTube Music which will automatically move to the phone from the tab without any hassles.
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Feature Drop for Pixel Watches
1. Contact Tile- This new contact tile for Pixel Watches allows users to easily access frequent contacts and instantly call messages, or view contact details with just one tap. It can be used on all Pixel watches running WearOS 3. Contacting your BFFs or close ones gets much easier with this update.
2. Loss of Pulse Detection- Pixel Watch 3 was announced with a life-saving loss of pulse detection feature. It was able to detect cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, poisoning, etc., and call emergency services without wasting a single second. The watch prompts a paired phone or watch to call the emergency services for help. It has been expanded to more countries including Italy, Spain, and Belgium.
3. Gmail Emoji Reactions- Using Pixel watches, you can now send emoji reactions to emails directly. These include thumbs-up and smiley faces and are available on Pixel Watches running WearOS 3+.
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