Google periodically introduces new features for its Pixel devices, and we are currently at one of those moments. The latest Pixel feature drop includes Circle to Search for the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, following its initial launch on Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series and subsequent availability on Google’s Pixel 8 lineup earlier this year.
This feature allows users to long press the navigation bar or home button, then circle, scribble, highlight, or tap an image, text, or video to access relevant information.
For owners of the Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, or Pixel Fold, Instagram now supports capturing and sharing 10-bit HDR videos directly on Instagram Reels, and uploading and sharing Ultra HDR photos on your feed.
In the US, Call Screen on Pixel 6 and newer devices can now start a call when the caller is silent. A “hello” button appears when a caller is unresponsive, allowing Google Assistant to prompt the caller to speak. Additionally, Google Assistant will inform the caller of any potential wait times if you can’t immediately answer a call being screened.
With the new app screen sharing feature, users can share a single app at a time during video calls or presentations on a Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, or Pixel 5a 5G and newer devices, without sharing the entire screen.
Pairing previously used devices is now easier in the Connected Devices settings, allowing for quick setup of Bluetooth accessories on a new Pixel device through Fast Pair.
Google Docs now supports handwritten annotations on documents or assignments using different pen colors and highlighters on a Pixel device with a finger or stylus.
On the Pixel Tablet, the Gboard keyboard will minimize into a toolbar when voice input is activated, optimizing screen space for multitasking.
The original Pixel Watch from 2022 is receiving a host of new features introduced on its successor last year, including Pace Training, Heart Zone Training, redesigned workouts interface, and auto-pause, auto-start, and auto-stop for various workout activities.
Other additions include the Fitbit Relax app for breathing exercises and Google Maps for Wear OS providing public transit directions on the Pixel Watch.
