Hold onto your charging cables, Pixel fans! The first Pixel Feature Drop of 2024 is here, bringing a healthy dose of new features to your favorite phone. Whether you wield the mighty Pixel 8 series or rock an older Pixel, there’s something for everyone in this update.
Pixel 8 Series Exclusive Upgrades:
- Medical-Grade Body Temperature with Fitbit: Remember that temperature sensor on the Pixel 8 Pro gathering dust? Well, it’s about to get hot under the collar (literally). Google’s secured FDA approval, transforming it into a medical-grade body temperature reader. Scan your forehead and bam, instant temperature readings! You can even save them to your Fitbit profile for a holistic health picture.
- Circle to Search: Feeling jealous of Samsung’s fancy new search feature? Well, Pixel 8 users, fret no more! Circle to Search is coming your way on January 31st. Just long-press the home button/navigation bar, circle what you want to know, and boom, instant information without leaving your current app. It’s like magic!
- Magic Compose: Say goodbye to writer’s block! The Google Messages app is getting a magical upgrade with Magic Compose. This AI-powered tool rewrites your draft messages in different styles, making them sound professional, dramatic, or whatever suits your mood. Pixel 8 Pro users get this feature on-device, while others will tap into the cloud’s AI power.
Features for Everyone:
- Photomoji: Google Messages is doubling down on fun with Photomoji. Turn any photo into a hilarious reaction emoji in seconds, adding a touch of personality to your chats.
- Quick Share (aka Nearby Share): Remember the handy Nearby Share feature for quickly sharing files? It’s getting a makeover and a new name: Quick Share. Look for the new icon on your Pixel phone and enjoy a streamlined sharing experience.
- Audio Switch: Pixel Buds Pro users, rejoice! The automatic device switching magic is spreading. Now, your earbuds seamlessly hop between your Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Tablet, or Pixel phone, keeping you connected without missing a beat. You’ll even get handy notifications about where your audio’s going.
Google didn’t forget the fashionistas! The Pixel 8 series is getting a stylish new coat – Mint. So if you’re feeling a bit green (with envy or otherwise), head over to the Google Store and check it out.
That’s all for now, Pixel fans! Keep your eyes peeled as these features roll out over the next few weeks. And remember, if you’re rocking a non-Google phone, some of these features might find their way to you eventually. Just keep the waitlist in mind.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the Feature Drop and unleash the full potential of your Pixel phone!
