Google Pixel's New Feature Drop Includes Massive AI Upgrade - Here's What You Can Do Now

Google Pixel's New Feature Drop Includes Massive AI Upgrade - Here's What You Can Do Now

Google recently announced a number of major AI updates, including the launch of Gemini, a new AI model designed for Bird and mobile devices. This is because existing Pixel devices will also be upgraded to incorporate AI.

This is all part of the new features that will be rolled out to Pixel phones, tablets, and smartwatches starting today. But while Gemini is focused on generative AI, these features are focused on productivity and customization, honing in on what your device can already do.

The most significant part of this feature drop is the launch of Video Boost on the Pixel 8 Pro. This was announced at the same time as the phone, but was one of the features not available at launch. Video is uploaded to one of Google's cloud servers, where it is photographed with more powerful computation than the Tensor G3 can provide on its own.

The idea is that color, lighting, and image stabilization will be improved and graininess reduced; Video Boost will also enable Night Sight video, which will improve video shot in low light.

Google will also add Night Sight time-lapse mode to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. This promises to record "vivid and detailed time-lapse videos in low light," which is possible as long as the phone is on a stable surface or tripod.

Google Photos' portrait light benefits from a new AI model that can balance light, remove harsh shadows, and generally improve portrait photography. Best of all, it can be used with both new and older photos; Photo Unblur will also be upgraded, with enhanced capabilities to sharpen images of dogs and cats.

Speaking of photos, Pixel Fold owners will be able to see a preview of what they are taking on the outside display. However, it will only really be useful when taking pictures of people, as they can see and adjust to the preview in front of them.

Google Assistant's call screen feature is also smarter, able to suggest contextual responses that provide an opportunity to respond appropriately without actually answering the call; Pixel Watch also supports call screens, allowing users to check status without having to take out their phones.

Pixel Watch also supports the call screen, allowing users to check status without having to take out their phones.

Pixel Tablet owners will also get enhanced voice and video calling. This includes support for Clear Calling, an AI-powered system that provides optimal call quality on video calls, and Spatial Audio. This works through the tablet's speakers or through Spatial Audio-enabled headphones like the Pixel Buds Pro.

Pixel Fold can also connect to a laptop or desktop to function as a webcam alongside Pixel 6 and later devices. This was previously available in the Android 14 beta, but is now rolling out to all Pixels. It is unclear if other Androids will get the same treatment.

Smartphones are a solid, if imperfect, way to replace home scanners. Pixel is now getting a new "clean" feature that will remove smudges, smudges and creases from scanned documents to ensure they look a little more presentable.

Google's smartwatch will likewise get the ability to unlock the phone when a Pixel phone is nearby.

Google's Password Manager will also detect which accounts support passkeys and help you set them up. In addition, the repair mode allows users to lock and save their personal data when they need to send their phone in for repair.

The recorder app currently supports transcription in 28 languages, while Direct My Call and Hold for Me have both expanded to the United States. Toll-free numbers without prefixes are also available.

Finally, the World Clock app now displays the weather both in-app and in a widget; like the Pixel Watch 2, the first-generation Pixel Watch adds many new watch faces, and Do Not Disturb and Bedtime mode can be synced across devices. Do Not Disturb and Bedtime Mode can be synced between devices.

If you have a Pixel Tablet, Pixel Watch, Pixel 6 or higher, keep an eye out for this update. Because you might want to see all of these cool features for yourself as soon as possible.

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