Google rolls out December Pixel update, most of it Gemini-related

Every once in a while, Google rolls out a new set of Pixel features called 'Pixel Drop.' This latest update introduces improvements to the camera, audio and video tools, and most importantly, Gemini, Google's AI assistant.

Pixel can now work better with Gemini

Google is keen to share advances in its AI assistant, from a new Gemini Spotify extension to a Gemini lock screen setting that makes it easier to make phone calls. But those updates ultimately mean nothing if your device doesn't support them. The latest, Pixel Drop, lets Pixel users take advantage of Gemini's more advanced functionality.

Your secrets are stored with Gemini

Now, Google Pixel will be able to take advantage of Google's "memory" capabilities for Gemini, thanks to a new feature called Saved info . Basically, when you chat with Gemini on a Pixel device, you can ask the AI ​​assistant to remember certain information about you, like your food preferences or schedule details. That way, future responses will take this context into account and be more helpful to you.

Google rolls out December Pixel update, most of it Gemini-related Picture 1

In addition to marking details for Gemini to save during a chat, you can add and edit preferences at gemini.google.com by selecting Settings > Saved info .

Note : You must have Gemini Advanced to take advantage of the Saved info feature . The premium upgrade costs $19.99/month.

Support more applications

The latest Pixel updates also mean that Gemini will be able to talk to more apps, like Contacts , Google Messages , and Clock . Some of the highlights of this new compatibility include the ability to ask Gemini to text you, call someone, or set an alarm.

According to the update announcement on Google's blog, the company will "add support for even more apps in the coming weeks . "

Caption Pixel is more expressive than ever

As Gemini's new memory feature reminds us, context is everything—and Google's latest Pixel updates take that into account in a number of ways. In addition to the Gemini-compatible updates, Google has also introduced Expressive Captions for US users with a Pixel 6 or later.

Google rolls out December Pixel update, most of it Gemini-related Picture 2

This feature applies captions to anything you watch on your phone, using font styles, sound effects, and capitalization to help you understand the emotion behind the dialogue instead of a live transcript.

Pixel's new camera features bring organization and accessibility

Known for its sharp photography skills, the Pixel will also get more advanced camera features with this launch. Some of the highlights include the Dual Screen feature and new integration for Pixel Screenshots.

Dual Screen

If you own a Pixel Fold or Pixel 9 Pro Fold, you can take advantage of Google's Dual Screen feature. The display lets both you and your subject preview the image before you take it, so your subject isn't just relying on your direction to know how to pose.

Pixel Screenshots

The latest release includes integration between Pixel Screenshots and Circle to Search. With this integration, you can now add search results to Pixel Screenshots with a simple tap, so you don't have to struggle to remember that recipe you looked up yesterday. Google is also adding more sorting options to Pixel Screenshots with image categories.

Of course, while these new features are a treat for existing Pixel users, they're also a ploy to attract new customers. Especially now, when AI tools are everything, the addition of Gemini support to the Pixel is a huge advantage for the hardware. After all, even if you can technically get the Gemini app on your iOS device, the AI-powered assistant is much more effective with the Pixel's integrations.

Samuel Daniel

Update 09 December 2024