Although Android 11 is no longer the latest version of Google’s operating system, it will remain the stable version for the first part of this year. To help remedy this, the March feature drop in Pixel and the next security patch are now here.
Backup cloud recorder and web app
Pixel’s powerful Recorder app can now automatically back up to Google Drive. Previously, users had to upload manually via the sharing spreadsheet, while previous recordings were not transferred to new / other phones. Cloud storage also means accessing multiple devices through a new recorder.google.com app that can play, search and share audio.
Measure your heart and breathing rate on Google Fit
Google Fit can use the Pixel’s front camera and computer vision to measure your breathing rate, detecting small changes in your chest as you breathe. Meanwhile, measuring your heart rate involves placing your finger on the rear lens.
Underwater photos
Pixel phones now work with the universal Kraken Sports smartphone shell (KRH04 or KRH03) to capture marine life and seascapes. The UI is almost identical, except for a bar at the top with statistics for specific accessories.
Get access to Pixel camera features, including Night Vision, Portrait Mode, Moving Photos and video directly through the Pixel Camera app for high quality images of you and your underwater friends. See g.co/pixel/diveconnector for more information.
Google touts this as giving users the ability to “capture the same types of high-quality images that they are used to on the water’s surface and do this underwater without the cameras and heavy boxes that dive drivers often use”.
Gboard Smart Compose
After launching on Gmail and Google Docs, Smart Composition is officially coming to Gboard to select messaging apps. Taking advantage of machine learning, it offers the option of completing sentences as you type, suggesting common phrases to reduce repetitive typing and possible typos. Smart Compose currently works only in the US and in English.
Pixel Stand
Pixel Stand receives a new bedtime screen and redesigned notices to help you “sleep easily”.
This feature is available on Pixel smartphones with wireless charging capability: Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL and Pixel 5.
New IWD wallpaper
The “Curated Culture” section, featured last month, on Google Wallpapers has three new backgrounds ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8. With a focus on the strength and transformation of women, they are illustrated by the Spanish duo Cachetejack.
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