Unleashing the Magic: Unveiling the Juicy Updates for Google's Pixel Phones
Android's Notable 15 Upgrades to Surface on Pixel Smartphones At Last
After the long wait following the launch of the Pixel 9 phones, it's finally time to savor some of those enticing Android 15 features that have been brewing up some hype among the tech community. And the best part? Starting October 15, these tantalizing goodies will grace not just the latest Pixel 9 devices, but also older models, baby!
Here's a breakdown of what you can expect, based on the type of device you're rocking:
Pixel 9: The All-Star
If you're the proud owner of the latest Pixel 9, you'll be thrilled to learn that the ability to employ Gemini AI in conjunction with the Pixel Screenshots app will soon be within your grasp. And if you're using the 9 Pro, with its external temperature sensor, get ready to use the camera as a nifty viewfinder for precisely positioning it on your little one's feverish brow. For those looking to ease their reading woes, the camera viewfinder can also be used for live reading features.
Pixel 8 Pro: The Veteran Contender
And for those of you hanging on to your Pixel 8 Pro, don't fret! A brand-new feather in its cap is the Audio Magic Eraser feature, a nifty tool for fine-tuning audio in your video clips. The Google Photos app will soon sport provisions to lower undesirable background sounds and amplify the voices of your loved ones, chatty strangers be damned!
Pixel 6 & Newer: The Dynamic Duo
If you're rocking a Pixel 6 or any device that followed, here's a heads up: The much-awaited Theft Protection and Private Space features will soon be knocking on your door! The former is designed to protect your device from thieves and the latter offers a secure, lockable folder to stash your sensitive apps.
Enhanced Vibration: Peaceful Phone-A-Thon
For those zen warriors who prefer silence, Android 15 has got your back. The Pixel 7 and later phones will now feature an "Adaptive Vibration" mode, which adjusts the intensity of vibrations based on your surroundings — perfect for avoiding those steely glares when your phone starts buzzing in a tranquil library.
Pixel Weather App and More: Universal Expansion
The Pixel Weather app is now available for all Pixel 6 devices and newer, along with the eagerly-anticipated Pixel Tablet. So, no more weather-related FOMO!
Gemini Integration: A Demise for the Original Pixel Buds?
If you were holding out hope to avoid Pixel Buds Pro 2's Gemini AI integration with past Pixel Buds, sorry to burst your bubble, but that time has come to an end! Starting October 15, the Pixel Buds Pro, A-Series, and the original Pixel Buds will all be compatible with Gemini Live, so better buy a new pair if you're hoping to shy away from team Gemini.
Pinned Taskbar: A Godsend for the Clumsy
Good news for the tech-impaired out there: Those of you still using the Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, or Pixel 9 Pro Fold will soon be able to pin and unpin the taskbar with an added feature. And trust us, you'll appreciate this upgrade if you're constantly struggling to remember the right gesture to bring up specific apps on your dual-screen devices.
Stay tuned for more updates on Google's Pixel lineup, and remember, the future is always just a software update away!
- The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro's future integration with Gemini AI and the external temperature sensor, respectively, will bring exciting features such as improved Pixel Screenshots and feverish brow camera positioning.
- For Pixel 8 Pro users, the anticipated Audio Magic Eraser feature is supposed to arrive, which fine-tunes audio in video clips by reducing unwanted background noise and amplifying voices.
- Owners of Pixel 6 devices and newer can look forward to the arrival of the Theft Protection and Private Space features, designed to secure their devices and sensitive apps.
- Starting October 15, all Pixel Buds Pro, A-Series, and the original Pixel Buds will be compatible with Gemini Live, potentially signaling the demise of compatibility with past Pixel Buds models.
