Google has revealed the initiation of the December software update for all Pixel devices supporting Android 14. This update incorporates the monthly security patch and the most recent Pixel Feature Drop, extending compatibility to smartphones as far back as the Pixel 5a (5G). It’s important to note that some features are exclusive to newer Pixel models, including the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.
The update introduces improvements in audio performance, battery and charging, camera capabilities, as well as enhancements in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi functionality, among other aspects. Below is a compilation of features that users can anticipate on their smartphones:
AI-powered photos and videos
Video Boost, exclusive to the Pixel 8 Pro, uploads shaky or imperfect videos to the cloud. Google’s computational photography models then adjust color, lighting, stabilization, and graininess. Additionally, Video Boost facilitates Night Sight video, employing AI for noise reduction in videos captured during night or low-light scenarios.
Capture vivid and detailed timelapse videos in low light using Night Sight in Timelapse, exclusively available on Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Simply use a tripod or a stable surface. Recording for five minutes in 1080p quality or 20 minutes in 4K quality is claimed to yield a 10-second timelapse video in Night Sight mode.
Enhanced Portrait Light: Google is introducing an upgraded Portrait Light feature in the Photos app. This enhancement utilizes a new AI model for balanced lighting, aiming to eliminate harsh shadows and enhance the quality of portrait photos.
Enhanced Photo Unblur: According to Google, the upgraded Photo Unblur feature now excels at sharpening images of dogs and cats, even if users’ pets are in constant motion.
More productivity tools
Exclusive to Pixel fold smartphones, the Dual Screen Preview simplifies the process for both photographers and subjects to arrange the perfect frame and pose for a fantastic picture.
Enjoy high-quality video calls from your computer by utilizing Google Pixel 6 and newer phones as webcams. This allows for visually superior and less grainy video calls, similar to what can be achieved with iPhones.
‘Clean’ Document Scans: The Pixel’s latest Clean feature assists in eliminating smudges, stains, and creases from scanned documents. Users can access these images through the Camera app and easily enhance them with a few swipes.
Secure Sign-In: Google Password Manager can now recognize accounts that support passkeys, facilitating their addition with just a few taps for a safer sign-in experience.
Data Protection with Repair Mode: Google is introducing Repair Mode to safeguard users’ settings and data when the device is sent for repair or servicing.
Enhanced Responses in Call Screen: On Pixel Fold, Pixel 6, and newer phones, Google Assistant will now provide intelligent and context-aware reply suggestions in Call Screen. Additionally, Call Screen is accessible on Pixel Watch.
Unlock Your Phone with Pixel Watch: A new feature on Pixel Watch enables users to unlock their phones when their hands are occupied or when the face unlock feature is unable to recognize their faces.
Crisp Calls on Pixel Tablet: Google states that the AI-driven Clear Calling, now available on Pixel Tablet, will enhance speech quality during video calls by minimizing background noise.
Pixel Tablet Embraces Spatial Audio: Google has revealed that Pixel Tablet now offers support for spatial audio. Users, in conjunction with Pixel Buds Pro, can enjoy head tracking for a more immersive and spatial sound experience.
Expanded Language Support for Recorder App: The Recorder app has extended its transcription capabilities to include 28 additional languages. Furthermore, Pixel’s Direct My Call and Hold for Me features are now broadening their reach to encompass business numbers without requiring a toll-free prefix.
Combined Weather and Clock: Google is introducing new Weather and Clock widgets for Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 5a with 5G, and newer phones.
Enhancements for First-Gen Pixel Watch: The initial iteration of the Pixel Watch is set to perform even more efficiently, incorporating some of the improvements observed in the Pixel Watch 2. Additionally, the smartwatch now offers new watch face designs such as Adventure and Analog Arcs, along with updated complication styles like arcs and redesigned bulbs.
