Just some days after Apple dazzled up with its ‘Apple Intelligence’ and other interesting software feature updates at the WWDC24 event, Google is kicking up some summer dust with its June Feature Drop, bringing a slew of exciting updates to Pixel smartphones and watches. Even the Pixel Tablet is getting in on the action.
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This year’s update focuses heavily on user customization and the power of artificial intelligence (AI)
At the heart of this update is the Gemini Nano AI, which is finally making its debut on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a after months of anticipation.
This powerful AI will enhance several on-device tools, including the new Summarize in Recorder feature. With this upgrade, you can now create detailed summaries, export transcripts to text files or Google Docs, and even identify speakers in the transcripts for easy reference.
However, the Summarize in Recorder will only be available on Pixel 8 Pro and in Developer options on Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a in English. This means you’ll have to activate the AI functionality yourself, as it won’t be on by default.
This Pixel update drop also includes support for the Display Port Standard on the Pixel 8a, Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, via the USB-C port. Just connect your phone to a monitor using a USB-C to DisplayPort cable and you will be able to display content (movies, shows and slides) on a bigger screen.
Additionally, a new reverse phone number search feature is available on your Pixel Fold, Pixel 6, and newer models. This allows you to easily identify unknown callers directly from your call logs similar to what services like TrueCaller help you to do.
Other functionalities coming with the update drop include a Find My Device feature that will now work even when your battery is dead in case of a lost device. The camera app has also been updated, giving you the ability to manually choose which camera lens to use, providing more control over your photography.
Pixel Watch update
The June update also brings some interesting features to Pixel Watches. This includes a new Car Crash Detection feature on the Pixel Watch 2.
The new safety feature detects car accidents and triggers a timer on the screen. If you don’t respond, the watch will automatically contact emergency services and notify your emergency contacts with your real-time location. Google also improved Fall Detection to better detect falls from bicycles.
As part of the update drop, you can now link your PayPal account to Google Wallet on your Pixel Watch, making payments easier when you don’t have your wallet or your hands are full.
For watches running Wear OS 3 or newer, the updated Home app offers a redesigned interface, providing easy access to and control of smart devices with just a swipe. You can now adjust the rotation of blinds or control fan speed directly from your watch.
Pixel Tablet
The Pixel Tablet is also receiving its own patch, with “richer doorbell notifications.” This update allows you to see who is at your front door via a direct video feed from a Nest doorbell and respond using Quick Responses.
With the June Feature Drop, Google continues to enhance your Pixel experience with a mix of cutting-edge AI advancements and practical updates that are equipped to meet your daily needs.
Whether you’re excited about the new Gemini Nano AI on your Pixel 8 and 8a, thrilled by the enhanced safety features on the Pixel Watch, or looking forward to the improved functionalities on your Pixel Tablet, this update sure has something for everyone.