Google has recently introduced the June 2024 Pixel Feature Drop, bringing a host of new features to Pixel phones, including the highly anticipated Gemini Nano to the Pixel 8 and 8a models. Gemini Nano is Google’s version of the large language model (LLM) designed to work efficiently on smartphones, allowing for faster processing of queries by running on-device instead of relying solely on cloud processing. Initially, Google had not planned to bring Gemini Nano to the Pixel 8 due to memory constraints. However, after facing backlash from Pixel 8 users, Google reversed its decision and made the feature available to Pixel 8 and 8a users.
To access Gemini Nano on the Pixel 8 or 8a, users can navigate to Settings > System > Developer options > AICore and toggle on the option to “Enable on-device GenAI Features.” Currently, Gemini Nano powers limited features such as the summarization feature in the Recorder app, smart reply in Gboard (available in select messaging apps like WhatsApp), and on-device Magic Compose in Google Messages. It is expected that more features will be powered by Gemini Nano in the future.
Among other new features in the Pixel phones, the Pixel 8 series now supports display output, though the functionality is limited to screen mirroring for now. The Phone app introduces a convenient reverse phone number lookup feature, allowing users to quickly lookup phone numbers from the call log. Furthermore, various enhancements have been made to the Camera app, including improved frame selection to capture better photos and expanded manual camera controls to other Pro Pixel models.
In addition to the Pixel phones, the Pixel Watch and Pixel Tablet also receive new features. The Pixel Watch now includes an improved Fall Detection feature that can detect when a person falls off a bike. Users can now pay with PayPal through Google Wallet on the watch, along with an enhanced Google Home experience. As for the Pixel Tablet, it now supports showing doorbell notifications, specifically from the Nest Doorbell, when docked on the charging speaker.
Overall, the June 2024 Pixel Feature Drop brings a range of exciting updates and enhancements to Google’s Pixel ecosystem, further enhancing the user experience across Pixel devices.
