Google’s latest Pixel feature drop is here

Here we go again. See if this sounds familiar: a new update is rolling out to Google’s Pixels, but the latest ones, namely the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, have to wait and aren’t getting the new software as soon as all the others.

Well, it’s happening this month too. Google has today unveiled its latest “feature drop” for Pixels, and it’s rolling out to everything from the Pixel 3a to the Pixel 5a (5G). The Pixel 6 and 6 Pro will have to wait until “later this month”.

So what’s all the fuss about? First off, you get support for Night Sight in Snapchat, to help you capture clearer low-light pictures and videos. This will work on the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro whenever they get the update.

Next up, Live Caption for calls – if you take a call but prefer not to speak. Google’s AI magic will auto-caption what the person you’re talking to is saying, and you can type replies which will then be read out loud on the other end.

Gboard can now convert your words into colorful stickers which are built with your exact text. This is coming to Pixel users globally, if typing in English (US) starting today. This is just the latest enhancement to Gboard, along with emoji, emoji kitchen, and custom sticker suggestions while you type.

Also on all Pixels, you can now host your own YouTube watch parties or share a favorite app with live sharing for Duo.

Live Translate’s Interpreter mode has learned more languages and can now translate your face to face conversations with Spanish, Italian, and French speakers right on your phone – provided that it’s a Pixel 6 or 6 Pro, and since it’s only those two handsets, by “now” we mean “whenever they get the March update” again. The translations never leave your device. This can be brought up by saying “Hey Google, be my Spanish interpreter” (or Italian, or French, of course).

There’s also a new Pixel battery widget, showing up-to-date stats about your battery as well as connected devices like Pixel Buds.

Additionally, Direct My Call and Wait Times will be available for all phones including and newer than the Pixel 3a. Exclusively for Pixel 6 and 6 Pro (when they get this update), Recorder will transcribe in Italian and Spanish, and Assistant Quick Phrases will be available in Spanish, Italian, and French.

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