Google Rolls Out Major Pixel Update with New AI Features and Security Fix
Google has released its June 2024 feature drop for Pixel devices, bringing a host of new capabilities alongside a critical security update. The update introduces AI enhancements, display improvements, and expanded functionality across Pixel phones, watches, and tablets.
AI Comes to More Pixel Devices
One of the most significant additions is the expansion of Gemini Nano, Google's efficient on-device AI model, to more Pixel phones. The Pixel 8 and 8a now have access to Gemini Nano as a developer option, opening up new possibilities for AI-powered features.
The Recorder app on Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a devices has been upgraded to provide more detailed summaries, including speaker identification in conversations. This enhancement makes it easier for users to review interviews, lectures, or meetings.
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| The Recorder app on the Pixel 8 Pro now provides detailed summaries with speaker identification, making it easier to review conversations and meetings |
Display and Camera Improvements
Pixel 8 series devices now support USB-C DisplayPort output, allowing users to easily connect their phones to external displays. This long-requested feature significantly improves the versatility of Pixel phones for productivity and entertainment.
The Pixel camera app received notable upgrades, including:
- Automatic selection of the best moment in HDR+ photos
- Manual lens selection while taking photos
- Improved focus on faces and smiles
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| The Pixel 8 series now supports USB-C DisplayPort output, allowing users to easily connect their phones to external displays for enhanced productivity and entertainment |
Critical Security Update
Alongside new features, Google has addressed a high-severity security vulnerability (CVE-2024-32896) that was potentially being exploited. The US government has urged federal employees to update their Pixel devices within 10 days or stop using them, highlighting the importance of this fix.
The vulnerability could allow for privilege escalation, potentially giving attackers access to sensitive data. While Google states the exploitation is limited and targeted, all Pixel users are strongly advised to update their devices immediately.
Additional Features
Other notable improvements in the June update include:
- Find My Device now works when the phone is off or has a dead battery
- Reverse phone number lookup directly from the call log
- Car Crash Detection for Pixel Watch 2
- Improved smart home controls on Pixel Watches
- Enhanced doorbell notifications for Pixel Tablets
The update is rolling out gradually over the next few weeks. Users can check for updates by going to Settings > System > Software Updates on their Pixel devices.
With this comprehensive update, Google continues to enhance the Pixel ecosystem, balancing new features with critical security improvements to keep users' devices secure and up-to-date.
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| The Pixel Watch 2 now features Car Crash Detection, which can automatically call emergency services and notify contacts in the event of a car accident |
