Google's June Feature Drop Brings Exciting Updates to Pixel Devices
Google Pixel users are in for a treat as the tech giant rolls out its latest June Feature Drop packed with new and improved features for multiple Pixel devices, including the Pixel 8, Pixel 8a, and Pixel Watch 2.
Long-Awaited AI Tech Arrives on Pixel 8 Models
After much anticipation, Gemini Nano has made its way to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a, elevating the capabilities of on-device tools like the Recorder app. With Gemini Nano, users can now expect "more detailed…summaries" in their transcripts, complete with speaker names to easily identify who said what during recorded conversations. It's important to note that Gemini Nano is a "developer option," so users will need to manually activate the AI feature by following instructions available on the Pixel Phone Help website.
More Features to Explore
In addition to advanced AI technology, Pixel 8 series models now support displaying content on larger screens. All it takes is a USB-C to DisplayPort cable connection to a monitor to enhance your viewing experience. But that's not all—Pixel users can now easily perform reverse phone number searches directly from their call logs, quickly identifying unknown callers. This feature is accessible on the Pixel Fold, Pixel 6, and newer models.
Pixel Watch 2 Gets Life-Saving Upgrade
Google's Pixel Watch 2 is also getting significant updates. The standout feature is the new Car Crash Detection, which could potentially save lives. If the wearer is involved in a severe car accident, the watch activates a timer on the screen. If the user doesn't respond, the Pixel Watch 2 will automatically contact emergency services and update emergency contacts with the user's real-time location.
Additionally, Pixel Watch 2 users can now link their PayPal accounts to Google Wallet on their wearable devices for convenient transactions.
The June Feature Drop also reintroduces enhancements previously seen in the Spring 2024 update for Google Home, such as the Google Home Favorites widget for Pixel smartphones and streamlined smart home controls on wearables.
The Pixel Tablet isn't left out either, with updates offering "richer doorbell notifications" that allow users to view and respond to visitors at their doorstep directly from their tablet screens.
With other notable rollouts like Find My Device now functioning even when a phone's battery is dead, Google continues to push the boundaries of what's possible with its Pixel line-up, making them some of the best options out there for smartphone users.
