Less than a month after Google unveiled a host of new features in the Android feature drop, a fresh batch of improvements is rolling out with the new June Pixel feature drop update. While some have been previewed before, there are additions that seem to bring meaningful changes to the Pixel 8 line and other Pixel smartphones and devices.
On-device AI for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a
Perhaps, the most important is the arrival of Gemini Nano for Pixel 8 (review) and Pixel 8a (review). Google the AI model is still in a beta phase and can only be accessed by activating the developer mode from the settings in these handsets.
It was originally announced that the AI model would be an exclusive feature on the Pixel 8 Pro (review) until Google backtracked its plan and instead promised to bring it to other Tensor G3-powered devices. The AI model should enable on-device processes like summaries for the recorder and smart replies in Gboard while it powers the chatbot of the same name.
Project your Pixel 8’s screen to larger displays via USB-C
Google is giving the Pixel 8 series the ability to connect with external monitors through USB-C. It has been a long-requested feature to add support for display output with TVs and monitors via wired connection on top of wireless casting, and it’s finally happening with this update. As usual, you’ll need a compatible cable and monitor to use the function.
Offline Find My Device tracking
Back at last year’s I/O, Google said it is bringing offline finding or tracking to Android devices and confirmed this year that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro come with the feature. Now, the latest Pixel feature drop also confirms that the Pixel 8a is taking advantage of offline tracking, which is no surprise as it runs on the same Tensor G3 as those flagship models.
As stated by Google, the Find My Device network and app can locate a Pixel handset up to 23 hours that it has been switched off or that the battery has died out.
A better camera app
There are two enhancements coming in the Pixel camera app as well. First is the best moment shot supporting HDR+ shooting mode, which was only possible when you are in the standard photo mode. This is available to the Pixel 6 and newer models, Pixel Fold (review), and Pixel Tablet (review).
The second is the redesigned lens switcher in the app that now places the toggle for wide, ultrawide, and telephoto directly when taking photos. The change benefits the Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8 Pro, and the Pixel Fold that come with a telephoto snapper.
More features in the Pixel feature drop: Lookup and smart home widgets
Google’s Pixel Fold and Pixel 6 and newer models are also getting a new Lookup feature in the phone app. You can tap on an unknown number from your recent call logs and then select Lookup to reverse search the number and should possibly identify the caller.
The rest of the features in the Pixel feature drop were already showcased last month. These include the Google Home Favorites widgets that you can add on your Pixel smartphone or Pixel Watch home screen, adding quicker access to your smart home devices and controls.
Furthermore, PayPal comes to the Google Wallet app and this is compatible to Pixel Watch and Wear OS 3-powered smartwatches and newer. Presently, it is available in Germany and the USA.
Which are your favorite new features from this Pixel feature drop? And have you received the update? Share with us in the comment section.
