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Google introduces five new Android features for phones and smartwatches
Top 3 Key Points:
- New Features: Google adds five new Android features, covering search, accessibility, and safety.
- Enhanced Accessibility: Improvements to TalkBack and Chrome for better audio experiences.
- Wear OS Update: Offline maps for smartwatches to access maps without a phone.
Google has announced the release of five new features that will enhance the Android experience for users with compatible phones and smartwatches. Unlike the usual monthly updates that are primarily focused on Pixel devices, these new features will be available to a broader range of Android users.
The updates bring improvements across several Android services, including the “Circle to Search” feature, Chrome, TalkBack, the Earthquake Alert System, and Google Maps for Wear OS smartwatches.
Instant Song Search with Circle to Search
The “Circle to Search” feature is getting an exciting update for users who enjoy discovering new music. You’ll soon be able to quickly identify songs playing around you without switching between apps. By simply long-pressing the Home button or navigation bar, you can activate Circle to Search and tap the music button. This will instantly provide you with the song’s name, artist, and even a link to a YouTube video.
Improved Accessibility with TalkBack and Chrome
Google is enhancing accessibility with updates to TalkBack, Android’s screen reader designed for users with visual impairments. The new TalkBack will offer more detailed audio descriptions for images, powered by Gemini models on supported devices, making it easier for users to understand visual content.
Similarly, Chrome is being updated to support users who prefer listening to content rather than reading it. This update allows you to choose your preferred listening speed, voice type, and language, giving you more control over how you consume information.
Earthquake Alerts and Offline Maps for Smartwatches
Google’s Earthquake Alert System, which uses crowd-sourced technology to detect and warn users of earthquakes seconds before they happen, is now expanding to cover all U.S. states and six territories. This system aims to provide potentially life-saving alerts in the critical moments before an earthquake strikes.
Additionally, Google Maps is rolling out offline maps for Wear OS smartwatches. Soon, you’ll be able to download maps to your phone and access them directly from your smartwatch, even when you don’t have your phone with you. This feature is particularly useful for those who rely on their smartwatches while traveling or exercising.
These new features are part of Google’s ongoing effort to enhance the Android ecosystem, making it more accessible, user-friendly, and capable of providing critical information when you need it most. Keep an eye out for these updates, which will be available in the coming days.