Zoom enhance launches for Pixel 8 Pro, Android 15 QPR1 beta approaching

Top 3 Key Points:
- Zoom Enhance is now rolling out to Pixel 8 Pro, improving image quality with AI.
- Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1 is coming soon, with stability improvements and bug fixes.
- Users should consider opting out of the Android Beta Program before QPR1 to avoid data loss.
Google has started rolling out the long-awaited Zoom Enhance feature for the Pixel 8 Pro, which was first introduced during the Made by Google 2023 keynote. This AI-driven feature aims to improve image quality at higher zoom levels by intelligently filling in the gaps between pixels and predicting fine details. This allows users to capture sharper, more detailed photos without making the images look overly processed or artificial.
Zoom Enhance was mentioned in a recent Google blog post highlighting some of the camera capabilities of the upcoming Pixel 9 series. While this feature is available out-of-the-box for the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and other models in the Pixel 9 lineup, it is now being gradually released to Pixel 8 Pro devices.
To access Zoom Enhance on your Pixel 8 Pro, you’ll need to head to the Google Photos app. This feature is integrated into the “Tools” section of the app rather than directly within the camera interface. Once the feature is available on your device, you’ll be able to enhance your existing photos by applying Zoom Enhance, which processes the image for a few seconds and then allows you to compare the improved version with the original.
Currently, the latest version of Google Photos (v6.95) is rolling out through the Google Play Store. However, the Zoom Enhance feature might not appear immediately, as its activation seems to be controlled by a server-side switch. It’s expected to become widely available in the coming days or weeks.
In other news, Google is preparing for the release of Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1, with Beta 4.2 being the final preview before the stable launch. This upcoming release will include important bug fixes and improvements to the stability and performance of Android 15. Google is urging testers who want to receive the final stable public release of Android 15 to opt out of the Beta Program soon. Opting out after installing QPR1 Beta 1 will result in a data wipe, so it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully.
The stable release of Android 15 is expected to arrive in September, with QPR1 Beta 1 following shortly after. If you choose to remain in the Beta Program, you can expect a relatively stable experience with the QPR releases.
Zoom enhance is coming to the Pixel 9 series and later on the 8 series this year! pic.twitter.com/ZpkTO12dGP
— MilesAboveTech (@milesabovetech) August 13, 2024
Gmail and Google Photos get new design and useful updates

Google is giving Gmail and Google Photos some fresh updates to make things easier and more user-friendly.
First, Gmail on the web is now getting a new layout option. You can choose between “Cozy,” “Comfortable,” or “Compact” views based on how much space you want between your emails. Google is also adding a setting to control whether your inbox and labels stay on screen or only show up when needed. These changes make it easier to personalize how Gmail looks and feels.
Meanwhile, Gmail for iPhone is getting a visual upgrade. The app now uses Google’s updated design style called “Material 3.” You’ll notice a cleaner look with a rounded search bar at the top, smoother icons, and better spacing. Although the bottom bar and buttons look mostly the same, the overall design feels more modern and easier on the eyes.
Lastly, Google Photos is bringing back a helpful feature. The classic search shortcut that appears in the bottom bar is returning, making it quicker to find your photos. Before this, the shortcut had been removed when Google added the new “Memories” tab. Now, both features work together, letting you browse memories and search with ease.
These updates aim to make Google’s apps feel more useful, clean, and easier to use on both desktop and mobile.
Android
Android 16 boosts USB data safety and fixes delayed notifications on Pixel phones

Google’s upcoming Android 16 update is bringing better security and some helpful improvements, especially for Pixel phone users. One of the main features in Android 16 is a new way to protect your phone’s data when it’s connected to a computer through USB. Right now, when you plug your phone into a PC or laptop, it can access all your data as long as you approve it.
With Android 16, Google is adding an extra security layer that only allows limited access unless you enter your PIN, password, or use your fingerprint. This will help protect your files if someone tries to access your phone without permission.
At the same time, Google is also working on a fix for a frustrating issue that some Pixel users have been facing for months — delayed notifications. After the April 2024 update, many users noticed that app alerts were not showing up on time, especially from messaging apps. Google has confirmed the problem and says a fix will be included in a future update, though it’s not in the current April patch yet.
Together, these changes show that Google is focusing on both stronger privacy and a smoother experience for Android and Pixel users. Android 16 is expected to roll out later this year, starting with developer previews.
Android
Google improves Translate, Assistant, TV, and Chrome with new updates

Google is bringing several updates across its apps to make them more useful and easier to use. Google Translate is working on a new feature called “Practice.” It helps users improve their language skills by offering short exercises, like matching words or filling in blanks. Right now, it looks like it will focus on Spanish, but other languages may come later. This tool could be great for people who want to go beyond just translating words and learn the language.
Google Assistant’s Driving Mode in Google Maps is starting to shut down. Many users are noticing that the card-style dashboard is disappearing, and the Assistant voice command shortcut no longer works. Google hasn’t officially said why, but it seems they’re moving away from this feature, possibly to focus on other tools or experiences in Maps.
Google TV’s Freeplay app is now back with a fresh look. It gives users free access to over 100 live TV channels. The redesign makes it easier to browse channels and see what’s playing. The new layout also highlights what’s currently on, making it faster to start watching without having to dig through menus.
Lastly, Google Chrome is testing a new built-in PDF viewer. This upgraded tool makes reading and editing PDFs easier right inside the browser. It includes better zoom controls, a cleaner layout, and a page list view that lets users jump to specific pages more quickly. These updates show Google’s push to improve how we learn, drive, watch TV, and browse the web.
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