Google rolls out June Pixel feature drop with AI on more devices, DisplayPort support, and more

Google is launching a new feature drop for June 2024 that enhances Pixel phones, watches, and tablets with new capabilities. These updates range from more devices getting AI to useful features for displaying your content on TVs, to more payment options on your watch, and beyond.

Gemini Nano, Google’s efficient AI model, is now available as a developer option on Pixel 8 and even on the Pixel 8a. This allows developers, and users who are experienced enough to tinker with these settings, to explore the potential of on-device AI tasks. Google also provided a link with instructions on how to enable developer options, for those that need a refresher.

Gemini Nano support on Pixel 8, 8a, and 8 Pro enables Recorder app speaker labels | Image Credit: Google

Entertainment options are expanding as Pixel 8a, Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro can now display content on larger screens via USB-C. USB-C display output support has been a highly requested feature by Pixel users for a long time now, so it’s great to see it finally becoming a reality.

Pixel camera HDR+ Top Shot and manual lens change |Image Credit: Google

Reverse phone number lookup is also now possible directly from the call log, so you can easily find more information on those mystery numbers. Additionally, Google Wallet expands to India, offering secure storage for boarding passes, loyalty cards, and more.

Pixel Watches get car crash detection, PayPal support, and Smart Home controls

Pixel Watch 2 introduces Car Crash Detection, a new safety feature designed to detect severe accidents and automatically dial emergency services if needed. Fall Detection has also been improved to better detect falls from bicycles.The Google Home app on Pixel Watch has been revamped for faster access to smart home devices. Favorites can be accessed with a swipe, and adjustments can be made directly from the watch face. The app itself offers more control options for smart home devices.

Pixel Tablet gets richer doorbell notifications and the new Google Home Favorites widget

Finally, Pixel Tablet users will receive richer doorbell notifications when docked, including a snapshot of the visitor and the ability to communicate via two-way talk or Quick Responses. Additionally, the new Google Home Favorites widget provides quicker access to compatible smart home devices on phone and tablet home screens.

Pixel Tablet richer doorbell notifications and Google Home Favorites widget | Credit: Google

The rollout of these new features begins today and will continue over the next few weeks, gradually enhancing the user experience across Google’s Pixel ecosystem.