Google on Thursday began rolling out the October Pixel Drop, bringing a range of updates to Pixel phones, tablets, and watches. Alongside this, the stable version of Android 15 is now available for Pixel devices. Key updates include enhanced AI-powered features, camera improvements, and new safety tools.
October 2024 Pixel Drop Features
More ways to use Gemini, in more languages
Talk to Gemini on Pixel Buds: Initially launched with Pixel Buds Pro 2, Gemini is now available on all Pixel Buds models.
- Whether using Pixel Buds Pro, A-Series, or the original Buds, you can access Gemini for directions, email info, or brainstorming.
- Just say, “Hey Google, let’s talk” to start a conversation. Gemini Live is also available for free, now supporting languages like German and Portuguese.
Gemini with Pixel Screenshots: You can now ask Gemini to search through Pixel Screenshots. For example, you can ask it to “find the brand of sneakers I saved in Screenshots,” and it will locate the image for you.
For Pixel Phones
Audio Magic Eraser: Available on Pixel 8 and newer, this tool helps remove distracting sounds from videos. You can isolate specific sounds, adjust volumes, or enhance voices for clearer audio.
Underwater Photography: Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL now offer improved underwater photo and video capabilities. Using any waterproof case, you can capture more vivid and accurate colors while swimming or snorkeling.
Astrophotography in Night Sight: An update to Night Sight allows users to capture stunning night sky images on Pixel 6 and newer devices. The feature is accessible from the Night Sight slider by selecting the Astro option.
Night Sight for Instagram enables low-light photography directly within the app.
Thermometer App Update: Available on Pixel 8 Pro, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL, the Thermometer app now uses the camera’s viewfinder to target specific surfaces and get live temperature readings.
Pollen Tracker in Pixel Weather App: The Pixel Weather app now tracks pollen levels for users in the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, helping manage seasonal allergies. It also includes humidity and AQI data for Pixel 6 and newer devices.
Widget Finder: Pixel 6 and newer phones now offer a more personalized widget finder. Long-press your home screen, and you’ll get suggestions for widgets in categories like Social and Entertainment.
Call Screen Improvements: In the UK and Japan, Call Screen now features a more natural-sounding voice and real-time text display of what callers are saying. It also allows users to respond to appointment confirmations and reservations without answering.
Theft Protection: Pixel 6 and newer devices now feature Theft Detection Lock, which uses AI and motion sensors to lock your phone if someone tries to steal it. Remote Lock allows you to secure your phone quickly.
Privacy Enhancements: Android 15 on Pixel 6 and newer introduces a separate, PIN-protected space for apps containing sensitive information.
Vibration Adjustments: Pixel 7 and newer devices, including Pixel Fold and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, can now automatically adjust vibration levels for ringtones, notifications, and alerts based on the environment.
For Pixel Watches
Contact Tile: A new tile for Pixel Watch users lets you easily access frequent contacts and quickly call, message, or view contact details with one tap. This is available on all Pixel Watch generations with WearOS 3+.
Gmail Emoji Reactions: You can now send emoji reactions to emails directly from your Pixel Watch, including thumbs-up and smiley faces. Available on smartwatches running WearOS 3+.
Loss of Pulse Detection: Pixel Watch 3’s Loss of Pulse Detection feature, which detects cardiac arrest and calls emergency services, is now available in Belgium, Italy, and Spain.
For Pixel Tablets
Media Casting: Pixel Tablet users can now seamlessly transfer media to their Pixel phones. Simply bring your phone close to the tablet, and your media (like Spotify or YouTube music) will automatically move to the phone.
Unified Notifications: Dismissing notifications on one device now clears them on your other Pixel devices, like your Pixel phone and tablet. This feature requires Wi-Fi and is available on Pixel 6 and newer devices.
Smart Home Controls: While your Pixel Tablet is idle, you can now access smart home device controls and camera feeds using the home panel screensaver feature. Compatible smart devices are required for these features (sold separately).
You can now share photos directly from the digital photo frame and select from new stylish clock designs to fit your aesthetic.
Availability
The October Pixel Drop, along with Android 15, will begin rolling out to Pixel devices starting October 15, 2024. These updates will reach Pixel phones, tablets, and watches gradually.