Every year, just before Christmas, Google introduces new features to Android devices. These features are not limited to the latest Android version 15, as they can also be used on older devices. Additionally, there is a significant Android 15 update for Pixel devices starting from Pixel 6 and newer, along with updates for the Pixel Watch 3 and the tablet.
The December update from Google enhances the functionality of the new assistant, Gemini. With the Spotify extension, users can play music via voice commands. Interestingly, this was already possible with Google Assistant. Initially, Gemini lacked basic features like this, but they are gradually being added to match Google Assistant’s capabilities.
Gemini also gains access to the “Utilities Extension,” allowing the chatbot to perform more actions such as making calls, sending emails, and changing phone settings. Furthermore, Gemini in the Lookout app provides more detailed and helpful image descriptions. Users can take a photo in the app, upload, or open it, and the caption is read aloud in a natural-sounding voice. This feature is currently available worldwide only in English.
Google also promises that scanned documents stored in Google Drive will be optimized with the update. Additionally, images and videos can now be easily shared via Quick-Share (formerly Nearby Share) using a QR code. New sticker combinations can be created in the Emoji Kitchen in Google’s Keyboard app, Gboard, with the new Pizza emoji highlighted, among others.
For Pixel smartphones, watches, and tablets, Google has introduced several new features. With the Android 15 QPR1 update, Google enhances the theft protection. When in a new location, the “Identity Verification” in the beta version now requires authentication via face or fingerprint before changes to sensitive settings on the smartphone can be made.
Google’s free VPN service can now also be used on the Pixel Tablet, ensuring sensitive data remains encrypted even on public Wi-Fi. On the Pixel Tablet, key controls can be accessed with a swipe on the lock screen, allowing quicker access to widgets for controlling smart home devices, timers, music, and more.
The Pixel Tablet also receives Now Playing music recognition with cover display. The Recorder app gets an update to automatically reduce background noise and distractions for clearer recordings. The “Crystal Clear Voice” feature must be activated in the app to use this.
The Pixel Watch 3 introduces a new feature: pulse loss detection, now available in Germany and Portugal. This feature can detect if a person’s heart suddenly stops, such as due to cardiac arrest, poisoning, or respiratory arrest. If the user does not respond to the alert, the smartwatch will call emergency services.
New in Germany is also the fall detection for all Pixel Watch models and the car crash detection for Pixel smartphones and the Pixel Watch 2 and 3. These new features are gradually being rolled out on all compatible devices. Google has provided an overview of which features are available on which Pixel device. Most features are available to smartphones from other manufacturers via Google Play services, without requiring an Android update.