Google has rolled out the February 2024 Android Feature Drop that brings a slew of enhancements and new features across Android devices, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and cars.
Here’s a breakdown of the 9 new Android and Wear OS features introduced in the latest update:
Stay Connected on the Road with Android Auto
Android Auto now leverages AI to summarize long texts and group chats while driving. This feature also suggests smart replies and actions to let users easily send messages, share their ETA, or initiate a call with a single tap.
AI-Generated Captions with Lookout on Android
Lookout on Android introduces image captions that allow users to listen to AI-generated descriptions of photos, online images, and pictures in messages. This feature will be beneficial for blind and low-vision users and is available globally in English.
Enhanced Screen Reader Support in Maps
Lens in Google Maps now supports an enhanced screen reader that helps you explore nearby places and identify them with the phone’s camera. With TalkBack, it can read out the place’s information such as business hours, ratings, or directions.
Handwritten Markups in Google Docs
Google Docs now supports handwritten markups. So, users can add annotations to documents using their fingers or stylus. This feature provides various markup tools, such as pen colors and highlighters, facilitating quick and easy document reviews and feedback.
Seamless Spotify Experience with New Casting Controls
Spotify integrates with the output switcher on Android’s home screen. It allows users to switch between devices seamlessly when playing music. Spotify Connect now enables users to change audio output from their phone to other devices like smart speakers, TVs, or more.
Redesigned Fitbit App for Health and Fitness Data
The company has also redesigned the Fitbit to present a comprehensive view of health, wellness, and fitness data. Users can now access data from connected wearables and apps, including AllTrails, Oura Ring, and MyFitnessPal, in the You tab of the Fitbit app.
Google Wallet Passes on Wear OS Watches
Google Wallet passes are now accessible on Wear OS watches. So, users can now access tickets, passes, memberships, and cards directly from their Wear OS smartwatch. Users can choose which passes to display or hide on the watch.
Public Transit Directions on Google Maps for Wear OS
Google Maps for Wear OS gets public transit directions. So, users can get transit data for buses, trains, or ferries with a glance at their wrists. The feature includes departure times, compass-guided navigation, and the option to mirror directions to the phone.
Chat with Gemini in Google Messages
Google has now integrated its AI chatbot Gemini into Google Messages on Android phones. Users can engage with Gemini to draft messages, brainstorm ideas, and plan events in a conversation.
These new features are really useful and will improve user experience.
