NEWS  Google  December 2, 2023  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Google is once again showering Android users with a cascade of new features as part of its quarterly Android Feature Drop, now rolling out for Q4 2023. From enhanced messaging experiences to smart home control on Wear OS, the latest additions aim to make Android devices more expressive, fun, and functional.

Messaging Evolves with Google Messages and Call Features

Messages by Google has been renamed "Google Messages". The app introduces a text-reply functionality during phone calls, akin to Samsung's Bixby Text Call.

Google TV Expands its Free Channel Lineup

For entertainment enthusiasts, Google TV welcomes more than 10 new free channels, amplifying its offerings to over 100 channels. Among the additions is a holiday movie channel, just in time for the festive season in December.

Wear OS Unleashes Smart Home Control and Assistant Routines (Coming Soon)

Wear OS users are in for a treat with expanded smart home control, allowing them to manage devices such as smart vacuums and control mood lighting directly from their watches. A noteworthy upcoming feature is the ability to initiate Assistant Routines from Wear OS, a long-awaited addition for smart home aficionados.

FIDO2 Security Key Enhancements for Enhanced Security

Security-conscious users with a FIDO2 security key can now set a custom PIN for websites and apps, eliminating the need for traditional passwords. This move enhances security and adds an extra layer of protection for sensitive data.

Wear OS Gets Assistant At a Glance Widget and TalkBack Image Descriptions

Inspired by the popular At a Glance widget on Pixel smartphones, Wear OS introduces the Assistant At a Glance widget. Users can now receive weather alerts, reminders, travel updates, and more with just a glance at their wrists. Moreover, TalkBack, designed for users with vision impairments, now utilizes AI to provide audible descriptions of images, even in the absence of accurate text descriptions.

Live Caption Expands Language Support

Live Caption, a beloved tool for creating captions for video content, is set to support more languages in the coming weeks. This accessibility feature ensures a broader audience can benefit from real-time captions, even when not embedded in the video itself.

As these exciting features begin their rollout, Android users can anticipate a more dynamic and versatile digital experience, enhancing the functionality of their smartphones, tablets, watches, and more. Stay tuned for the updates arriving on supported Android devices in the coming days and weeks.

 COVER IMAGE BY FREEPIK/REVIEW SPACE