Google has unveiled a fresh look for Android along with new features for its apps and devices, just ahead of the upcoming Pixel hardware event on October 4th. Here’s what’s new:
AI Assistance at Your Fingertips
Get instant help with the Assistant At a Glance widget. It uses AI to provide you with useful info like precise weather alerts, dynamic travel updates, and upcoming event reminders directly on your home screen, precisely when you need them.
Improved Accessibility with Image Q&A
For individuals who are blind or have low vision, scrolling through images in group chats, camera apps, or social media can be challenging. Google’s Lookout feature makes visual content more accessible using AI-generated detailed descriptions.
After opening an image, you can type or use your voice to ask questions and learn more about its contents. Lookout now supports 11 additional languages, including Japanese, Korean, and Chinese, making it accessible in a total of 34 languages.
Enhanced Productivity
Access your everyday tickets and passes when you need them. With Google Wallet Pass photo import, you can convert passes with barcodes or QR codes, like gym or library cards, into secure digital versions stored in your Google Wallet.
New Communication Apps for Android Auto
Android Auto is getting new communication apps, including Webex by Cisco and Zoom. You can initiate and join conference calls via audio and check meeting schedules on your car’s display. Manage active calls through Android Auto, allowing you to mute your microphone or end calls as needed.
Personalization
Kickstart your day with motivation by receiving updates on your Fitbit or Google Fit activity and sleep data in personal Routines.
Add your sleep hours and start time to your Good morning Routine and say, “Hey Google, good morning” to hear your sleep stats in the morning.
Other Noteworthy Features in Android this September 2023
- Translate in Gmail: Translate emails directly from the Gmail mobile app when it detects foreign-language emails.
- Google Meet: Enjoy a simplified mobile experience with fewer distractions during calls.
- Google Photos: AI curation organizes your photos for easy access to special moments.
- YouTube Shorts: Add effects to enhance your videos.
- Unknown Tracker Alerts: Your Android device can now detect and notify you about unfamiliar tracking devices.
- Android Earthquake Alert System: Early earthquake warnings are available in over 95 countries.
- Secure RCS Chats: All messages, including group chats, are end-to-end encrypted.
- WhatsApp on Wear OS: Access WhatsApp on your Wear OS smartwatch for messaging and calls.
- WearOS Place Info: Find new places, place information, and directions right on your smartwatch.
Announcing the updates, Eve Andersson, Senior Director, Products for All, Google, said:
Today, Android is unveiling a fresh look and introducing new features for the Google apps and devices you rely on daily. We’re committed to enhancing your experience by consistently delivering improvements. Discover more at android.com/updates.