GOOGLE has just announced its first Android feature drop of 2024, bringing a range of new functionalities to Android smartphones. The most prominent addition in this update is the ability to utilize your Android device as a thermometer. With flu season in full swing, this feature allows users to measure their body temperature conveniently. To obtain an accurate reading, all you have to do is scan your forehead with your phone. Google also mentions that users can save their results to their Fitbit profile for better health and wellness insights. However, this feature is exclusively available to owners of the newest addition to Google’s smartphone lineup, the Pixel 8 Pro. The medical-grade thermometer function, along with other features, will start rolling out today on Pixel 8 Pro devices, and the update will continue to reach users over the following weeks. If the features are not immediately visible on your smartphone, don’t worry; they are on their way.
Furthermore, Google is making searching on Pixel 8 and 8 Pro devices even easier with the introduction of the Circle to Search button. By circling any item or text on the screen using a finger or stylus, users can activate AI-driven web searches for the selected content. This innovative feature will not only be available on Pixel 8 Pro devices but will also make its way to Samsung’s latest flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S24, in about a week. The rollout for this feature is scheduled to commence on January 31.
In addition to these updates, Google continues its efforts to enhance Google Messages. This month, the tech giant has incorporated generative AI technology into its native messaging application, enabling users to rewrite drafted messages in different styles. This new feature will be accessible to users of Pixel 6 and newer smartphones. Google Messages users will also have access to the Photomoji feature, allowing them to react to messages using personalized cutouts of themselves or their pets. Simply select a photo, choose the desired object as a reaction, and send it. The sent photomojis are saved in a dedicated tab for easy reuse, and friends in group chats can also utilize these sent photomojis as reactions.
With these exciting feature updates, Google aims to provide Android users with enhanced functionality and convenience. Whether it’s measuring body temperature, performing quick web searches, or adding a personal touch to messages, these new additions cater to the diverse needs of Android smartphone owners. Stay patient if you don’t see these features immediately on your smartphone as they will become available gradually. Get ready to make the most of your Android device with these latest advancements from Google.
