The December 2024 Feature Drop brings exciting updates to Pixel devices, Gemini, and Google Contacts. Here’s a concise breakdown of what’s new.
Smarter Pixel Screenshots
Pixel Screenshots is transforming from a simple library to a powerful tool with new integrations and features:
- Automatic Categorization: Screenshots are now sorted into categories like Music, Places, Products, and Promo codes. A new carousel helps you filter and view specific categories.
- Enhanced Actions: When viewing screenshots, you’ll see new shortcuts like “Add to Wallet” for passes, alongside existing options such as adding events to your calendar, searching maps, or opening webpages.
- Search Integration: Pixel Screenshots will extract details like song names, product info, and tracking numbers, enabling quick searches for music, movies, or social media profiles.
- Circle to Search Link: You can now save cropped parts of screenshots directly into Pixel Screenshots for future use.
- Gboard Autofill Suggestions: Screenshots power contextual autofill on Gboard. For instance, a band name from a screenshot can appear as a suggestion in Spotify or YouTube Music. This works offline, keeping your data private, and can be disabled in settings.
These updates are rolling out with the December 2024 Feature Drop for Pixel 9 series devices.
Gemini’s Spotify Extension and Chess Champ Gem
Gemini is expanding its capabilities with two key updates:
- Spotify Integration:
- Search and play music using natural language commands like “Play [song] by [artist] on Spotify.”
- Available for manual setup through the Gemini app’s Extensions list.
- Supports searching by lyrics, moods, or activities but doesn’t allow playlist creation.
- Chess Champ Gem:
- A conversational chess experience powered by a language model.
- Use chess notation to make moves or ask for advice.
- Available to Gemini Advanced subscribers on Google One AI Premium Plan.
Redesigned Google Contacts Favorites Widget
Google Contacts has revamped its Favorites widget with:
- Circular Avatars: Replacing rectangular images for a cleaner grid layout.
- Improved Information: Names displayed below avatars and icons for birthdays.
- Dynamic Design: Highly resizable with support for Dynamic Color themes.
This server-side update is rolling out with Google Contacts version 4.45 on Android.
Conclusion
These updates elevate Pixel Screenshots, Gemini, and Google Contacts with smarter integrations and user-friendly designs. Whether you’re organizing screenshots, enjoying music, playing chess, or managing contacts, these improvements make your Android experience more seamless and efficient.
