The June Google Pixel feature cancellation brings the Gemini Nano AI model to Pixel 8 and 8a users

Google is finally making its Gemini Nano AI model available to Pixel 8 and 8a users after being announced in March. The June launch of Pixel will allow users to access the model as a developer option. Additionally, the feature change includes support for Display Port connectivity on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a, reverse phone number lookup for unknown numbers, drop and crash detection on the Pixel Watch 2, and doorbell notifications on the Pixel tablet.

Pixel phone updates

The Gemini Nano model will enable detailed transcription summaries in the Recorder application. Additionally, the company didn’t explain what functions the artificial intelligence model would enable.

The recorder app now supports speaker name detection and the ability to export transcripts to text files or Google Docs on Pixel 6 or later.

Other useful updates introduced as a part of the Pixel update include support for Display Port over the device’s USB-C port, allowing you to view content on a bigger screen. The update also introduces the ability to reverse phone number lookup, which allows you to seek for an unknown number in your call log. It’s unclear whether Google uses it Caller ID or other third party database. It’s price noting that apps like Truecaller already offer reverse lookup and will be integrated together with your dialer to display live caller ID.

On Pixel 8, 8 Pro and 8a, Find My Device will now work even when the phone is out of power. The company claims that the app can locate a disabled device for not less than 23 hours.

The update introduces manual camera lens selection on Pixel 6 Pro, 7 Pro and Pixel Fold. This feature was already available on Pixel 8 Pro. If this setting is off, the camera mechanically selects a lens based on sharp objects in the frame.

Google is updating HDR+ photo support on Pixel 6 and newer devices to mechanically detect the best shot if you press the shutter button.

Pixel watch

The latest Pixel update enables automotive accident detection on the Pixel Watch 2. If the watch detects that you’ve got been involved in a serious accident, it can notify your emergency contacts with details of your location using the emergency sharing feature. What’s more, the update also detects falls from bicycles.

Google can also be rolling out a redesigned Home app on Wear OS for all watches running Wear OS 3 or later. The app will allow you to access your favorite smart devices with only one swipe. When you tap the device icon to open the Home app, you possibly can adjust the temperature in your private home or dim the lights in your watch.

What’s more, you possibly can add your most regularly used devices directly to your watch face in Wear OS. The update also allows you to adjust the rotation of the blinds and control the fan speed.

Other updates

Your Pixel tablet receives an updated doorbell notification with a snapshot of who’s at the door. You can start a conversation with them or send a fast reply directly from the notification.

Google can also be adding the Google Home Favorites widget to all devices running Android 12 or later. The widget allows you to access and control smart home devices with just a number of taps.