David Bridges
Highlights
- Features: Google has rolled out software updates to older Pixel devices, enhancing their functionality.
- User Interface: The new Material 3 Expressive user interface allows for extensive customization options.
- Audio Tech: New audio features in Pixel Buds Pro 2 improve user experience by adapting to surroundings.
- AI Integration: Google introduces new AI tools in Gboard to assist with text editing and writing.
Now that the series has been out for a week, Google has begun rolling many of the software features it debuted with those phones to its older devices as part of the September Pixel drop. Starting today, if you own any Pixel device Google has released since 2021, including the and , you can start to customize your device with the company’s new Material 3 Expressive user interface.
What new features does Google offer for older Pixel devices?
Google is bringing many new software features to older Pixel devices, enhancing their overall user experience.
This update includes the new Material 3 Expressive user interface, which provides users with more customization options.
How does the Material 3 Expressive user interface improve customization?
The Material 3 Expressive user interface allows users to customize their device’s appearance extensively, including lock screen wallpapers.
This feature enables users to add “Live Effects” to their lock screen, providing a fresh look and personalized functionality.
What audio features are included in the new update?
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 will receive Adaptive Audio, allowing them to adjust output based on the surrounding environment.
Additionally, Loud Noise Protection will limit volume levels to protect users’ hearing.
What enhancements are being made to Bluetooth audio?
Google’s new technology allows simultaneous pairing of two different sets of Bluetooth headphones to one Android device.
This feature enables shared listening experiences, such as enjoying the same song or podcast with a friend.
What AI writing tools has Google introduced?
Gboard is receiving new AI writing tools designed to improve text editing and message clarity.
These tools can enhance the formality, expressiveness, or conciseness of messages while correcting spelling and grammatical errors.
What is the new AI bot creation experience?
Google’s new experience allows users to create personalized Android bots using AI technology.
This feature involves uploading a selfie, writing a prompt, and adding accessories to customize the bot.
Bluetooth audio on the whole is getting a , courtesy of . With the new tech, you can now simultaneously pair two different sets of Bluetooth headphones with a single Android handset. In practice, this will allow you and a friend to listen to the same song or podcast from a single device. If you want to involve more people, you can use your phone to create a QR code, which both friends and strangers can then use to join a private broadcast. Google suggests this could be a fun way to host a silent disco. To make it as easy as possible to start an audio broadcast, Google has redesigned Android’s menu. A simple toggle allows you to switch between sending and receiving files, and there’s a new indicator where you can follow the progress of your transfers.
As mentioned, the new audio features are made possible by Auracast, which enables public broadcasts of Bluetooth audio. Google began supporting Auracast with the , and now we’re starting to see that support mature, with devices now from Google, Samsung and Xiaomi all ready to join in on the fun.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a recent Google release if the company didn’t include . On that front, the company is offering additional writing tools in Gboard. Like its , the tool allows you to use an on-device model to edit your writing. The algorithm can tweak your messages to make them more formal, expressive or concise. It will also correct any spelling or grammatical errors.
Last but not least, Google is introducing an experience called , which allows you to use AI to create your own Android bot — you know, the cutesy mascot in most of the company’s smartphone marketing. The experience is available and through an app Google has released on the . To get started, you can upload a selfie, write a prompt and add some accessories to your bot. Afterward, Google’s latest AI models will do the rest.
Brandon Fletcher
Daniel Mercer
