Google Pixel December Update and Feature Drop! FULL LIST New Fixes & Features! WOW!

Summary

The December update for Google Pixel phones brings significant new features, bug fixes, and security improvements. Key updates include smarter call screening with Gemini Nano AI, enhanced screenshot categorization, and expanded support for Ultra HDR photos on Instagram. The update also introduces new Gboard features, accessibility enhancements, and a Pixel-exclusive VPN for the Pixel tablet. Several fixes target display, system stability, and app performance. This feature-rich update is available for Pixel 6 and newer models, delivering improvements for both everyday users and advanced features for Pixel enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• 😀 The December update for Google Pixel phones includes a wide range of fixes and new features, going beyond just a security patch.
• 📱 The update is available for Pixel 6 and newer devices, including the Pixel 6, 7, 8, 9 series, and Pixel tablets.
• 🔧 Key fixes include resolving display issues like green tint, improving camera stability, and addressing audio, Bluetooth, and lock screen wallpaper bugs.
• 🛠 The update also improves system performance, with enhancements to the stability of dark mode, notifications, and layout transitions.
• 📞 New call screen features include smart replies powered by Gemini Nano AI and automatic call screening for Pixel 4 series and newer.
• 📸 Screenshot app improvements now categorize and make screenshots easier to find. Enhanced search functionality is added.
• 🎨 Gboard introduces the ability to search for music, products, and other suggestions directly from screenshots, exclusive to Pixel 9 and newer.
• 🌟 Pixel 9 devices now support Ultra HDR photos for Instagram, a feature previously available only on Pixel 7 and 8.
• 📱 Pixel Fold updates include dual-screen support in portrait mode and fun features like 'Made You Look' for children and Joy from *Inside Out*.
• 🌐 New features for Pixel tablets include VPN access and lock screen widgets, expanding the tablet’s functionality.
• 📜 Automatic enhancements are added for document capture (like receipts or ID cards), improving photo quality directly within Google Drive.

Q & A

What is the December update for Google Pixel phones about?

The December update is not just a security patch; it includes significant security fixes, minor tweaks, system improvements, and new features for various Pixel phones.

Which devices are eligible for the December Pixel update?

The December update is available for Pixel 6 and newer models, including Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and the Pixel tablet.

How can you check if your Pixel phone has received the update?

To check for the update, swipe down from your home screen, tap the gear icon to open Settings, scroll down to 'System,' select 'Software Update,' and then tap 'Check for Update.'

What are some of the security fixes included in the update?

The update includes security patches addressing vulnerabilities and improvements for system stability, camera performance, audio stability, Bluetooth range, and various other areas of the system.

What is the new Gemini Nano AI feature in the update?

The Gemini Nano AI enhances call screening on Pixel phones by offering smart replies with more contextual and helpful suggestions, and it brings automatic call screening to Pixel 4 Series and newer devices.

What improvements were made to the Pixel screenshot app?

The Pixel screenshot app now includes better categorization, making it easier to find screenshots. Additionally, a new 'circle to search' feature has been added for better accessibility.

What is the new 'Ultra HDR' feature on Instagram for Pixel 9?

Pixel 9 devices can now capture and share Ultra HDR photos directly on Instagram, enhancing the photo quality with better contrast and vibrant colors.

How does the new 'Dual Screen in Portrait Mode' feature work on Pixel foldables?

Google has enabled the dual screen feature for portrait mode on Pixel foldable devices, allowing the camera preview to show on both the cover and foldable screens simultaneously.

What is the 'Made You Look' feature on Pixel foldable phones?

The 'Made You Look' feature, which was initially introduced on Pixel 9 Pro Fold, has now been added to the regular Pixel fold devices. It displays fun, playful animations to make kids smile while taking photos.

How has the Pixel Recorder app been enhanced in this update?

The Pixel Recorder app now includes a 'Clear Voice Mode,' which improves audio clarity by reducing background noise and enhancing the focus on the primary voice in recordings.

What new feature has been added for Pixel Tablet users in this update?

Pixel Tablet users now have access to Pixel-exclusive VPN services and lock screen widgets, offering more customization and enhanced security options.

What new feature has been added to Android in general with this update?

A new 'expressive captions' feature has been added to live captions, which can now show emotional cues like gasps, cheers, and applause for a more nuanced viewing experience.

What is the improved Quick Share feature?

The improved Quick Share feature now allows users to share files and photos using a QR code, making it easier and more convenient to send content to other devices.