In a much-anticipated move, Google has announced a host of innovative features and updates for its Pixel 8 series and other Pixel devices in the latest feature drop. South African users can look forward to a range of enhancements, from a novel search feature to practical upgrades in existing functionalities.
One of the headline features is the introduction of the Circle to Search feature, making its debut on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Initially spotted on Samsung’s Galaxy S24, this feature allows users to effortlessly gather more information about any item on their phone screen. By performing a long press on the home button or navigation bar, users can ‘circle’ an object, prompting Google to provide relevant details about the selected content. The rollout for this feature is set to go live on January 31st, coinciding with the release date of Samsung’s S24 lineup.
The Pixel 8 Pro’s built-in thermometer, previously used for checking the temperature of everyday items like coffee, is now set to become more practical. In a surprising turn, Google has made it possible for users to measure body temperature using this “medical-grade” thermometer feature. This enhancement adds a valuable functionality to the device, making it more than just a novelty.
Older Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 and newer, are not left behind in this update. Google is introducing Magic Compose, an artificial intelligence-powered feature that enables users to rewrite drafted messages in different styles. While the Pixel 8 Pro processes this on-device, other Pixel phones will leverage cloud capabilities to refine their messages, giving them a professional tone or making them more concise.
The familiar Nearby Share feature is undergoing a rebranding, now known as Quick Share. Functionality remains the same, allowing users to seamlessly send content to nearby Android, ChromeOS, and Windows devices that support the feature. This aligns with a unified branding effort between Google and Samsung.
The Pixel Watch is receiving an exciting update with the introduction of automatic audio switching. This feature allows users to effortlessly switch their Pixel Buds Pro from the Pixel Watch to various Pixel phones or tablets. Users will also receive helpful notifications regarding the audio switch, enhancing the overall experience for Pixel Watch owners.
In a fun and creative addition to the Messages app, Google introduces “Photomoji.” Users can now react to messages with personalized cutouts of themselves or their pets. By selecting a photo, reviewing the desired object to react with, and hitting send, users can inject a bit of personality into their message reactions. These creations are saved in a special tab for easy reuse, allowing friends in group chats to join in on the fun.
As with previous feature drops, these updates will be rolled out to Pixel hardware owners starting as early as Thursday, with the release continuing over the next few weeks. Google’s commitment to enhancing user experience and introducing innovative features remains evident, making the Pixel series a compelling choice for tech enthusiasts in South Africa.
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