Remember the days when MWC buzzed with the latest Android flagship phone reveals? Yes, we did see many exciting phone launches. But this year’s event also had some special announcements from Google. The company unveiled a wave of new features.
And before you ask, no, these new features aren’t only about the Android ecosystem. Google has also announced new features for Gemini, its AI-powered assistant. All the new features aim to enhance the user experience and make things feel seamless.
Google Announces Many New Features for Android Ecosystem
First, let’s take a look at the features Google announced for the Android ecosystem. There was a handful number of announcements, and here’s a description of each:
Android Auto
Google’s focus on fostering safer driving experiences was pretty evident at WMC. The company understands the potential dangers of distracted driving. Focusing on it, the team unveiled an innovative feature for Android Auto.
It’s called AI-powered message summaries. This groundbreaking addition utilizes artificial intelligence to condense incoming messages. So, instead of paragraphs, you get easy-to-digest snippets. Of course, Google knows that you may want to access the full message. Well, that will need only a tap.
With that, you can then access the full message. This will also let you reply with relevant pre-composed options. You can even share your estimated arrival time or start a voice call. The good part is that you can do all that without taking your eyes off the road.
Enhanced Accessibility Features
Google aims to make its technology accessible to everyone. And its efforts are evident in the exciting new features the company has introduced. These specific features are for individuals with vision impairment.
Users can leverage AI-generated captions for images, photos, and pictures received in messages. These make it easier to engage with visual content regardless of visual abilities.
Furthermore, Google Lens within Google Maps is getting a significant boost. With enhanced screen reader support, it will become easier to travel. It will read aloud the location’s name, operating hours, customer reviews, and more.
Features for Google’s Wear OS
Wear OS smartwatches are about to get even more versatile. Google is introducing the Google Wallet app to Wear OS. This will allow users to access a lot of things without going through any hassles. That includes loyalty cards, membership cards, passes, and tickets from their wrist. It also eliminates the need to fumble for your phone, streamlining daily tasks.
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Additionally, Google Maps on Wear OS is receiving an information boost. Commuters can now view vital details while traveling. That includes info on bus, ferry, or train numbers on their wrist. You also get departure times, compass-guided navigation, and the ability to mirror directions. All this enhances the navigation experience.
Health Connect
Exciting news for fitness enthusiasts! Google and Samsung have collaborated on Health Connect. It is a powerful tool that takes health data from different apps and devices. That includes AllTrails, MyFitnessPal, and Oura Ring. What’s more is that the tool merges it together into the Fitbit app.
This means users can now view a comprehensive picture of their health all in one place. The “You” tab in the Fitbit app acts as your central hub, displaying all your consolidated health data. And the “Today” tab presents a clear overview of your daily activities and health metrics. All are from Health Connect-compatible apps. This integration makes it easier to track your well-being. It also helps to gain valuable insights into your health journey.
Spotify Cast Support on Android Volume Control
Android users can rejoice! A long-awaited feature has arrived. And it will bring a significant boost to your audio control experience. Google has integrated Spotify Connect support into the native media switcher.
That means it’s now easier to manage both volume and playback controls for Spotify. And what’s even better is that you can manage them from your phone’s volume control center. This integration will work when casting media to a Google Cast-compatible device too. For example, a Google TV.
Before, controlling volume while casting Spotify would need you to switch between apps. And it was a cumbersome and time-consuming process. But with the new integration, you get hassle-free controls.
Google Docs
Google has announced handwritten annotations support for Docs. The support comes through the Markup feature. Thanks to this, you can use your finger or a stylus to draw annotations on documents. The good part is that it works on both Android phones and tablets.
A New Integration Feature for Google Gemini
As mentioned earlier, the new features aren’t just about the Android ecosystem. It goes beyond. Google has integrated the recently announced Gemini into Google Messages. With this integration, the AI-powered assistant can now help you draft messages, brainstorm ideas, and plan events.
In case you didn’t know, Google has also Gemini integrated into other services. That includes Google Docs, Maps, and YouTube.
