Google has announced the first feature drop of 2024 for its Pixel phones, bringing new and exclusive features to the Pixel 8 series, as well as some updates to older Pixel models (via The Verge).
One of the most notable features in this feature drop is the Circle to Search feature, which was first demonstrated during Samsung’s Galaxy S24 unveiling. This feature, which will be available on both the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, allows users to circle anything on their phone screen with a long press of the home button or navigation bar, and Google will provide more information about the highlighted content. For example, users can circle a movie title, a restaurant name, or a product image, and Google will show relevant results, reviews, or prices. This feature is expected to go live on January 31st, the same day as the release date of Samsung’s S24 series, which will also support this feature.
Another feature that is exclusive to the Pixel 8 Pro is the built-in thermometer, which can now be used to measure the body temperature of the user or someone else. Google claims that this feature is “medical-grade”, implying that it has obtained some level of FDA clearance to enable the thermometer for this purpose. This feature could be useful for monitoring the health of the user or their family members, especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Older Pixel phones are not left out in this feature drop, as they will also receive some new features. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 7, as well as the Pixel 8, will now have access to Magic Compose. This feature allows users to rewrite a drafted message in different styles with the help of AI. Users can choose from various options, such as professional, dramatic, or lyrical, and the AI will generate a new message that matches the selected style. For the Pixel 8 Pro, this processing happens on-device, while other Pixel models will use the cloud to enhance their messages.
Additionally, this feature drop also introduces the rebranding of Nearby Share to the simplified Quick Share branding, which is now shared by both Google and Samsung. Despite the name change, the functionality remains unchanged: Quick Share still allows users to send content to nearby Android, ChromeOS, and Windows devices that support the feature. This feature is similar to Apple’s AirDrop, which allows users to share files between iOS, macOS, and iPadOS devices.
Google also announces it is adding automatic audio switching to the Pixel Watch, which was launched in late 2023. With this feature, users can seamlessly switch their Pixel Buds Pro from their Pixel Watch to their Pixel phone or tablet. Additionally, they will receive helpful notifications showing where their audio is transitioning to, improving the overall user experience.
Finally, Google introduces “Photomoji” to its Messages app, expanding its availability from the beta tester program to the public. This feature allows users to transform a photo into a reaction by simply selecting an image from the media picker and hitting Create. The app will then generate a custom emoji based on the photo, which users can send to their contacts or use as stickers.
These feature drops for Pixel phones are set to roll out gradually, with some lucky Pixel owners getting an early taste as early as Thursday. The rest can expect to enjoy the latest features over the next few weeks.