Google introduces new features for Chat, Pixel Screenshots, Photos, and Now Playing

Google is rolling out a series of updates across its services, making them more user-friendly and efficient. Here are the key updates:

Pin Important Messages in Google Chat

Google Chat is set to receive a new feature allowing users to pin messages in personal and group chats. This feature, available through Gmail’s latest update (v2024.11.24.702067492), introduces a “Board” section where pinned messages and files can be easily accessed. This will help Workspace users keep essential information, like FAQs or resources, handy within chats.

Additionally, Google is tweaking the interface for Google Chat. The Shared and Tasks tabs are now found in the three-dot menu alongside Threads and Search options. While these changes require more navigation, they declutter the main interface, providing better visibility for chat messages.

Smarter Pixel Screenshots App

Google’s Pixel Screenshots app has become more powerful with the latest Pixel Drop update. Key improvements include:

• Gboard Integration: Suggestions for movies, music, and products from screenshots now appear directly in Gboard while using apps like IMDb. This feature requires enabling “Show suggestions from your screenshots in other apps” in the app settings.
• Enhanced Search and Organization: Screenshots are now categorized automatically with improved search filters. The homepage also offers density options for better browsing.
• Suggested Actions: Based on screenshot information, the app suggests actions like creating calendar invites or saving tickets and credit cards to Google Wallet for quick access.

2024 Google Photos Recap

Google Photos is introducing its annual 2024 Recap, a feature that compiles your year’s memories into an engaging format. The recap includes:

• A one-minute video showcasing photos and videos with cinematic effects and music.
• Fun insights such as “Year in Smiles,” “Year in Color,” and top faces that frequently appeared in your pictures.
• Gemini-powered captions highlighting key moments like trips or weddings, accessible through the Photos settings.

These memories can be saved, shared, or accessed in your photo grid starting January. Ensure Face Groups is enabled to receive your Recap.

Default Music App for “Now Playing” on Pixel

Pixel’s “Now Playing” feature, known for identifying songs, is getting an upgrade. Soon, users will be able to set a default music app, eliminating the need to choose an app each time. While this option is mentioned in Google’s updated support pages, it is not yet available. The new setting will allow users to:

1. Open Settings on their Pixel device.
2. Navigate to Sound & Vibration > Now Playing > Default Music Player.
3. Select their preferred app for automatic song playback.

Though this feature hasn’t rolled out yet, it’s expected to enhance the convenience of the Now Playing tool.

Conclusion

These updates highlight Google’s efforts to enhance user experience across its ecosystem. From streamlined messaging to smarter tools for organizing memories and music, these features aim to simplify everyday tasks for users.