Google has recently announced a new color addition to its Pixel 8 series, but that’s not all. Alongside the fresh color option, the company is introducing its latest feature drop for the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. This update brings a brand-new feature called Circle to Search, which was first seen on Samsung’s Galaxy S24. With Circle to Search, users can simply long-press the home button or navigation bar to circle anything on their phone screen and access more information about the highlighted content. This feature will be available starting January 31st, aligning with the release date of Samsung’s S24 lineup.
In addition to Circle to Search, Google is making the built-in thermometer on the Pixel 8 Pro more useful. Users can now utilize this feature to measure their body temperature or that of others. Google describes the built-in thermometer as “medical-grade,” suggesting that the company has obtained FDA clearance for this functionality. While the initial decision to include a thermometer in a smartphone may seem puzzling, it now offers a practical use beyond mere temperature checks of hot beverages or other trivial items.
Google is not leaving older Pixel models behind. The Pixel 6 and newer devices will have access to a feature called Magic Compose, which utilizes AI to rewrite drafted messages in different styles. Unlike earlier versions that relied on cloud processing, the Pixel 8 Pro performs all processing on-device. Other Pixel models will still be able to benefit from the cloud to give their messages a professional tone or make them more concise.
As part of this feature drop, Google has rebranded its Nearby Share functionality to Quick Share, aligning with Samsung’s similar branding. Quick Share allows users to easily send content to nearby Android, ChromeOS, and Windows devices that support this feature. Another exciting addition to this update is the automatic audio switching feature for the Pixel Watch. Users can now seamlessly switch their Pixel Buds Pro between their Pixel Watch, Pixel phones, or Pixel Tablets, receiving helpful notifications about the audio destination.
Photomoji in Messages
Google is introducing a playful feature called “Photomoji” to its Messages app. With Photomoji, users can react to messages using cutouts of themselves or their pets. The on-device Google AI allows users to transform their favorite photos into reactions. Users can simply select the photo, choose the object they want to react with, and hit send. These creations are saved in a special tab for future use, and friends in group chats can also utilize sent photomoji.
The latest feature drop for the Google Pixel 8 series brings exciting additions and enhancements. The Circle to Search feature allows users to quickly access more information about any highlighted content on their phone screen. The built-in thermometer becomes even more practical with the ability to measure body temperature. Older Pixel models receive new tricks like Magic Compose, which enables rewriting drafted messages in different styles. Quick Share provides seamless content sharing to nearby devices, while automatic audio switching enhances the Pixel Watch experience. Lastly, the Messages app now offers the fun Photomoji feature for reacting to messages using personalized cutouts. Google continues to innovate and enhance the user experience with these latest updates for the Pixel 8 series.
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