During September, Google launched a set of new features for Android phones, as part of what it calls the September Android Drop update, in a package that focuses on taking advantage of artificial intelligence , facilitating access to information, improving the phone user experience while on the go, in addition to adding new tools to the Messages app. The features usually begin to arrive gradually, depending on the type of phone, Android version, and services available in each region.
Gemini remembers where things are.
Google is adding to Gemini the ability to remember the locations of objects that the user places at home or elsewhere, even if they are not equipped with tracking devices.
A user can ask Gemini, for example, to remember where they put their passport or spare key, saving its location in the Find Hub service, and even attaching a photo of the item. When needed later, the user can ask Gemini where it is or return to a dedicated tab for saved items.
The feature is available on devices running Android 16 or later, and in countries where Gemini and FindHub services are available.
The tool adds a set of moving dots above the screen, moving in sync with the vehicle's movement, with the aim of reducing the contrast between the movement seen by the eye and the movement felt by the body. The tool can be set to work automatically, or added to quick settings, with options to customize the shape of the dots and their degree of transparency. The feature also requires a phone running Android 17.
"Guided Vision" to understand what the camera sees
Google is expanding the capabilities of Gemini Live with the Guided Vision feature, which uses the phone's camera to provide audio descriptions of what is in front of the user.
The feature was designed in collaboration with blind and visually impaired communities, and can be used for tasks such as reading small text on products, helping to read a menu in a low-light setting, or identifying certain household items.
If the camera is not properly pointed, the feature can provide voice guidance to the user to readjust the frame, move the camera, or point it towards a specific object.
Google says the feature will be available on phones running Android 9 or later in countries where Gemini is available, but the company warns against relying on it for navigation or obstacle detection, as it may provide inaccurate information.
Google now allows the use of Google Keep directly from within the Google Messages app, enabling users to jointly create and edit notes and lists without leaving the conversation.
For example, a shopping list or travel notes can be created and shared with group members, allowing them to view, edit, and add new ideas. The feature will begin rolling out in Google Messages in September.
Customize conversations with backgrounds and themes
Google Messages also gets a Chat Theme feature, which gives the user greater ability to customize the appearance of each conversation.
Tags:
technology