Google has announced a comprehensive suite of new features for Android devices, extending beyond its own Pixel smartphones.
According to GSM Arena, these updates enhance accessibility, content consumption, and safety, alongside a new feature for Wear OS.
One of the key updates is the enhancement of Android’s TalkBack screen reader, which will now utilise Gemini models on supported devices to provide detailed audio descriptions of images.
This improvement allows users to receive comprehensive descriptions of photos, whether they are in their camera roll, receiving text messages, or browsing social media.
Another significant update is the official rollout of the Circle to Search feature, enabling users to identify songs playing in their vicinity or on their devices.
This feature, eagerly anticipated by Android enthusiasts, helps users quickly find the names of songs they hear.
Additionally, Google has introduced a new function in Chrome that allows users to listen to web pages.
This feature includes customisable options for listening speed, voice type, and language, making it easier to consume web content in a manner similar to podcasts.
In terms of safety, the Android Earthquake Alerts System is set to expand its coverage. This system, which uses crowd-sourced data to detect earthquakes, will now be available across all US states and six territories.
It provides users with potentially life-saving alerts seconds before an earthquake hits and offers guidance on what to do afterwards.
Finally, a new feature for Wear OS users allows for offline map access through Google Maps. This update enables watches to utilize maps downloaded to paired smartphones.
New shortcuts also allow users to search for destinations via voice commands when reconnected online or to view their current location with a simple tap on the watch face.
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