Revolutionizing Pixels: A closer look at Google's latest feature drop

Photo: Google

Google's latest announcement goes beyond introducing a fresh colour for the Pixel 8 series. In addition to this, the company unveils its newest feature drop, showcasing the innovative Circle to Search feature. Originally spotted on Samsung's Galaxy S24, this functionality will soon be available on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, with its launch scheduled for January 31, coinciding with the release date of Samsung's S24 lineup. To use Circle to Search, long press the home button or navigation bar and encircle any item on your phone screen. Google will then provide relevant information about the selected content. 

This update also enhances the use of the Pixel 8 Pro's built-in thermometer. You can now measure body temperature, a feature described by Google as "medical-grade." This suggests that Google likely obtained FDA clearance for this specific use. Adding a practical application for the thermometer somewhat eliminates its earlier puzzling presence in the phone. 

For older Pixel models, including the Pixel 6 and newer, the feature drop introduces Magic Compose. This AI-powered tool enables users to rewrite drafted messages in various styles. While the Pixel 8 Pro processes this on-device, other Google phones will rely on cloud capabilities to impart a professional tone or make them concise.

The update also rebrands the previous Nearby Share to Quick Share, aligning with both Google and Samsung. Despite the name change, the functionality remains unchanged. So you can share content with nearby Android, ChromeOS, and Windows devices supporting Quick Share.

In a comprehensive update, Google announces automatic audio switching for the Pixel Watch. This feature enables users to seamlessly switch Pixel Buds Pro audio from the Pixel Watch to various Pixel phones or tablets, accompanied by helpful notifications indicating the audio destination.

Lastly, Google introduces "Photomoji" to its Messages app, allowing users to react to messages with cutouts of themselves or their pets. By leveraging on-device Google AI, users can select a photo, choose the object for the reaction, and send their personalized creations. These Photomojis are conveniently stored for reuse, and recipients in group chats can also employ these sent creations.

The feature drop will be gradually rolled out to Pixel hardware owners, starting as early as Thursday and extending over the next few weeks.

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