Google has announced the launch of this mega release which will be available to anyone with one of the latest Pixel smartphones from today
A host of new Android features will be arriving to many devices today, designed to ensure safer functioning and better phone calls.
Some will even be able to open and start their cars with just their phone.
Google has announced the launch of this mega release which will be available to anyone with one of the latest Pixel smartphones.
There are several new features to try out including the launch of an in-built VPN.
This new Virtual Private Network obscures your online identity, and is useful when logging into the web or your emails through public WiFi.
Many VPNs need a subscription, however Google has promised that its version will be completely free to use.
The US tech giant also says this update will ensure your online activity is always protected at a network level, regardless of what app or web browser you’re using.
Alongside offering free VPN, the latest Android update means you will easily be able to review security and privacy settings, risk levels, and other information together in one location.
This will mean accounts and passwords are better protected when stored on devices.
However, there’s more to it than just security.
Google claims its users will hear improved phone calls because of a feature called Clear calling.
It uses clever technology, through Google’s Tensor processor, to enhance the voice of your contact and reduce background noise regardless of the type of device they are using.
It should mean you’ll be able to hear things more clearly if they’re in a busy cafe or walking down a busy street.
Another bonus arriving to the Pixel is the addition of a Digital car key.
This feature lets you lock, unlock and initiate a compatible car using your phone alone.
You can even share a key with friends and family should they need to access your vehicle and you aren’t nearby.
The next big change will be welcomed by anyone who loves Google’s dictation feature with things getting even better.
Once downloaded, the update now identifies and labels each person who is talking and inserts line breaks when the speaker changes.
This means you can record an interview, meeting, lecture, or conversation with each person labelled individually.
This feature uses machine learning to process speaker labelling live and on-device, so you can watch it work as you record.
And once the recording is complete, you can easily re-label speakers with their names.
Finally, there are some new wallpapers launching including some that feature images that shift and sway when your phone moves.
All of the features in this long list will be available on the Pixel 7 although there are also upgrades coming to devices including the Pixel 4, 5 and 6.
There’s no word on when all phones will get the changes but it’s worth checking your settings to see if your device has been offered the download.
Source: The Mirror