Google Pixel Camera 9.6: New Features and Wider Availability

Google’s Pixel Camera 9.6 update, first released in mid-October, is now available to more users via the Google Play Store. This update introduces new features for different Pixel devices, enhancing the user experience with innovative tools and improvements.

Initially, some users were stuck on previous versions like 9.4 (for Pixel 6 to Pixel 8a) and 9.5 (for Pixel 9 series). Recently, Google pushed a patch, version 9.6.080.695519101.19, ensuring all users can access the latest features.

Key Updates in Pixel Camera 9.6

1. Improved Timer Options:
   Pixel 6 to Pixel 8a owners now have a 5-second timer option alongside the existing 3- and 10-second settings, offering more flexibility for capturing moments.
2. Enhanced Astrophotography Mode:
   Accessing Astrophotography mode is easier. From the Night Sight tab, tap the bottom-right corner and slide to “Astro” to capture stunning shots of the night sky.
3. Underwater Photography for Pixel 9 Series:
   Pixel 9 devices now include an “Underwater photography and video” option under Settings > Advanced. This feature, compatible with any waterproof case, adjusts for accurate colors in underwater environments. When enabled, the viewfinder indicates the mode is active. Unfortunately, this feature is not available on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
4. Redesigned Panorama Mode:
   Users can now capture panorama shots while holding their devices vertically. Previously, this feature only supported horizontal orientation.

Google Wear OS 5.1: A Glimpse Into the Future

Google has launched a developer preview for Wear OS 5.1, built on Android 15 (API level 35). This update marks a significant leap forward, bringing enhancements to app functionality and new tools for wearable developers.

Evolution of Wear OS:

• Wear OS 3: Based on Android 11
• Wear OS 4: Based on Android 13
• Wear OS 5: Based on Android 14
• Wear OS 5.1: Now based on Android 15

Developers are encouraged to test their apps on API level 35 to ensure compatibility and take advantage of the new capabilities.

Highlighted Features in Wear OS 5.1

1. Credential Manager Support:
   A unified authentication system simplifies sign-ins using passwords, passkeys, or federated identities (e.g., Sign In with Google). Credentials sync across devices through a credential provider, enhancing security and convenience.
2. Watch Speaker Playback:
   For watches with built-in speakers, users can now select the watch speaker as an output option for media playback. This feature, integrated with the Wear Output Switcher, adds flexibility.

Currently, devices like the Pixel Watch 3 and YouTube Music require Bluetooth headphones for playback, but this update signals a shift. For example, Apple introduced speaker playback on its Apple Watch Series 10, highlighting its practicality for quick audio needs.

Additional Updates and Known Issues

Google also teased support for passkeys in a “Wear OS 5 Quarterly Platform Release” during the 2024 I/O conference.

The Wear OS 5.1 developer preview, released on November 19, includes the following known issues:

• The emulator may fail to let users add accounts during setup after a reset.
• Notifications may not open their corresponding apps immediately until the screen is scrolled.
• Wear Health Services occasionally fail to start exercises.

For testing, developers can access the Wear OS 5.1 emulator via Android Studio.

These updates to the Pixel Camera and Wear OS highlight Google’s focus on enhancing functionality and user experience across devices. Both updates are steps forward in creating a seamless ecosystem of advanced, user-friendly tools.

Google has rolled out Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3.1, a final bug-fixing update before the official launch of QPR1 in December 2024. While many users have moved to Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1, this update ensures stability for those still using QPR1.

Key Highlights of QPR1 Beta 3.1

This “minor update” introduces critical fixes to enhance system performance and resolve persistent issues:

1. Notification and Media Control Fixes
   • A bug that caused the notification shade to close without launching the corresponding app when tapping media controls is resolved.
   • The issue where long-pressing the device entry icon failed amidst overlapping notifications has also been fixed.
2. Bluetooth and Audio Stability
   • Volume control issues with certain Bluetooth devices are now resolved, enhancing audio device compatibility.
3. Material You and Visual Improvements
   • Wallpaper-based color selections under Material You now show better distinction, avoiding overly similar tones.
   • Scrollbar inconsistencies in system settings are corrected for a more polished UI.
4. NFC and Localization Enhancements
   • NFC payment reliability has been improved.
   • Translation issues in Indonesian and Hebrew for apps targeting Android 14 or lower have been fixed.
5. General Stability and Accessibility
   • Improvements cover system stability, camera functionality, and accessibility features.

Supported Devices and Installation Options

The update is compatible with Pixel devices from the Pixel 6 series to the latest Pixel 9 Pro Fold. It includes the November 2024 security patch. Most users can install the update via the Android Beta Program, with options to flash or sideload factory images for advanced setups.

This update paves the way for Android 15 QPR1’s stable release, ensuring a smoother experience for Pixel users. For those on the Beta Program, the new version will automatically download.

For more detailed installation guides and the full changelog, visit or the official factory image repository.

This update emphasizes Google’s commitment to refining Android 15 and ​service experience ahead of the December release.

Google Drops Pixel Tablet 2 Plans Over Profitability Issues

Google has reportedly decided to cancel the Pixel Tablet 2, originally slated for release in 2025, due to concerns about its financial viability. The original Pixel Tablet, launched in 2023, was expected to have a successor, with rumors even hinting at plans for a third-generation device (codenamed “Kiyomi”) targeted for 2027.

What Could Have Been: Pixel Tablet 2 Features

The Pixel Tablet 2 was in its early development phase. It was rumored to feature thinner bezels and a first-party keyboard cover with a built-in touchpad, offering enhanced functionality. A 5G variant was also reportedly in the works. However, internal evaluations suggested the product might struggle to achieve profitability, leading Google to halt the project.

Despite the setback, there is no indication that Google has entirely abandoned large-screen devices. Reports suggest that work on a Tensor G6-powered Pixel Tablet for 2027 might still be in progress. Owners of the current Pixel Tablet can rest assured that their devices will continue receiving software updates.

Android’s Commitment to Large Screens

Google remains invested in optimizing Android for large-screen devices, including tablets and foldables. Features like desktop-style windowing, expected to roll out in Android 15 QPR1 this December, signal ongoing development for better multitasking and productivity on bigger displays.

Additionally, Google’s rumored efforts to unify ChromeOS and Android could enhance large-screen support by enabling seamless desktop-level interactions on Android devices.

Android 16 and Gemini: The Future of App Control

Google is betting heavily on its AI-driven Gemini chatbot, aiming to integrate it deeply across its ecosystem. Currently, Gemini serves as the default assistant for many devices, but its ability to control Android apps has been limited. This could change significantly with the release of Android 16, which introduces a new framework designed to let services like Gemini perform tasks directly within apps.

Gemini Extensions and Their Limitations

At present, Gemini Extensions allow the AI to interact with external services like Google Maps, YouTube, and Google Workspace. These extensions pull data from backend APIs but don’t enable direct control over Android apps. For instance, Gemini can fetch flight details using Google Flights but cannot navigate or book flights directly within the app interface.

While extensions like “Utilities” offer basic control through predefined actions, they lack scalability. Many apps don’t provide public APIs, and relying on screen reading or accessibility inputs would result in inconsistent performance.

Android 16’s Game-Changing API: “App Functions”

Android 16 addresses these challenges with a new feature called “app functions.” According to Google’s developer documentation, app functions are specific pieces of functionality that apps expose to the system. For example, a food delivery app might create an app function labeled “orderFood,” which Gemini could use to initiate an order.

This functionality works by defining app-specific services accessible only to system-level processes. Permissions like EXECUTE_APP_FUNCTIONS and EXECUTE_APP_FUNCTIONS_TRUSTED regulate access, ensuring security and reliability. While these permissions are currently limited to system apps like the Google App and Android System Intelligence, they allow AI systems like Gemini to perform actions inside third-party apps.

A Leap Beyond Google Assistant

The app functions framework could enable Gemini to achieve what Google Assistant never fully managed: seamless multitasking across apps. Imagine using natural language to control apps, schedule tasks, or complete complex workflows. For example, users might book a hotel, order food, or respond to messages—all through voice commands or conversational inputs.

This vision aligns with Google’s 2019 promise of a “new Google Assistant” capable of orchestrating tasks across multiple apps. Android 16’s innovations could finally make this vision a reality, transforming Gemini into a versatile AI agent for Android devices.

Challenges and Adoption

The success of this system will depend heavily on developer adoption. App developers will need to implement app functions to unlock Gemini’s full potential. If widely embraced, this feature could redefine how users interact with Android apps, making AI-driven multitasking and app control a central part of the Android experience.

Conclusion

While the cancellation of the Pixel Tablet 2 marks a step back for Google’s hardware ambitions, the advancements in Android 16 signal exciting possibilities for the future. By empowering Gemini with robust app control capabilities, Google is paving the way for smarter, more intuitive interactions with Android devices. The coming years could see AI becoming an indispensable part of how we use smartphones and tablets.