Pixel phones in for a treat: January feature drop brings Circle to Search, Magic Compose, and more،
In the latest feature, Google introduces the new Circle to Search feature, first shown during Samsung's Galaxy S24 reveal, on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Scheduled to go live on January 31, coinciding with the release date of Samsung's S24 series, the feature allows users to circle anything on their phone's screen with a long press of the button. home or navigation bar, prompting Google to provide more information about the highlighted item. content.
Image credit–Google
Additionally, in this feature, the Pixel 8 Pro's built-in thermometer finally becomes more practical. Users can now use it to measure their own or someone else's body temperature. Described by Google as “medical-grade,” it strongly suggests that the company has obtained some level of clearance from the FDA to enable the thermometer for this purpose.
Older pixels also receive updates with 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 message written in different styles with the help of AI. Although this processing takes place on the device for the Pixel 8 Proother Pixel models will use the cloud to enhance their messages, giving them a professional tone or making them more dramatic or even lyrical.
Additionally, this feature also introduces the rebranding of Near Share to the simplified Quick Share brand, now shared by 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 this feature.
Google is also announcing the addition of automatic audio switching to the Pixel Watch. With this feature, you can easily switch your Pixel Buds Pro from your Pixel Watch on your Pixel phone or tablet. Additionally, you will receive helpful notifications indicating where your audio is transitioning, improving the overall user experience.
Finally, Google is introducing “Photomoji” to its Messages app, expanding its beta tester program availability to the public. This feature allows users to turn a photo into a reaction by simply selecting an image in the media picker and pressing Create.
As usual, these features for Pixel phones are expected to launch, and some lucky Pixel hardware owners will get a taste of them as early as Thursday. Others can expect to enjoy the latest features over the coming weeks.
