Google announces a host of new features for Android and Wear OS
February 27, 2024
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Google’s operating systems are moving closer together, thanks to a host of new AI features The first thing the company pays attention to is the update Android Auto.
Google’s operating systems are moving closer together, thanks to a host of new AI features
The first thing the company pays attention to is the update Android Auto. Now the operating system will be able to summarize long texts or live group chats while driving with the help of artificial intelligence. It will also suggest relevant responses and actions. You can just tap once to send a message and even share the ETA or start a call.
In the future, with image captions in Lookout on Android you’ll be able to: Listen to automatically generated AI descriptions of photos, locally stored online images, and images your interlocutors attach to messages. This feature is now available worldwide in English and has been designed with the needs of people with visual impairments in mind.
Google Maps on Android Get a new feature in Maps in the form of improved screen reading support for the lens. This is something similar to augmented reality, where virtual elements are superimposed on images of the real world. It will help you explore your surroundings and identify places like transportation stops, ATMs, and restaurants. Point your smartphone’s camera at your surroundings and TalkBack will read aloud information about the venue—opening hours, ratings, and even directions.
Google shows that it has not forgotten the Documents service with the new features it has brought to Android. Thanks to a new feature In Google Docs, users can now add handwritten comments to documents from your touch screen devices. To do this, simply use your finger or stylus. You will have a variety of marking tools like different pen colors, markers, and more.
Handwritten Notes on Documents / Channel 24 Screenshot
Handwritten Notes on Documents / Channel 24 Screenshot
Handwritten Notes on Documents / Channel 24 Screenshot
Android already has a very useful output switcher that makes it easy to switch between devices while playing YouTube Music. So you can quickly “throw” music from one device to another. For example, from the phone to the television in the room, to the smart speaker or headset in the kitchen. Now you can do the same with Spotify. The output switcher on Android will now show you Spotify Connect devices, making it easier for you to switch between connected devices.
Another feature coming to Android is the Fitbit application updated within the scope of Health Connect. You’ll be able to see data about your health, fitness and well-being in one place. Go to the “You” tab and you’ll see Fitbit data from all nearby connected apps and devices. Additionally, in the Today tab, you will see data such as exercises, steps, calories burned, floors walked and distance traveled from Health Connect compatible applications.
And last but not least: in Google Messages on Android, there is the opportunity to communicate with the Gemini AI directly from within the application. This feature will be released this week, will be in beta testing, and will only be available in English at launch. You’ll be able to draft messages, share ideas, plan events, and even chat with an AI chatbot.
Use Operating System
If you’re using one of the Wear OS smartwatches, there’s good news.
You can now see your Google Wallet passes on your Wear OS watch. The watch will be able to display boarding passes, event tickets, gym memberships, loyalty cards and more on your wrist. You can even choose which elements you want to show and which to hide.
Another feature coming to Wear OS from Android is the ability to get route information with a quick glance at your wrist. You can leave your phone in your pocket and look at your hand to make sure you’re heading in the right direction and on time for the bus, train, or ferry. You will also be able to see the departure time directly from your smartwatch and get navigation via compass, making the whole process much easier. If desired, you can even display the direction of travel on the watch and navigate hands-free.
John Wilkes is a seasoned journalist and author at Div Bracket. He specializes in covering trending news across a wide range of topics, from politics to entertainment and everything in between.