Google’s Pixel lineup is making waves in the US smartphone market, with reports indicating significant growth. However, some early claims about the extent of this growth have been revised, revealing a mix of fluctuations and promising trends.

Early Growth Claims: Too Good to Be True?

In November, StatCounter shared data suggesting Google Pixel devices experienced an extraordinary threefold growth in the US market within just one month. This bold claim drew attention, but its accuracy was questioned. Shortly after, the numbers began to fluctuate, casting doubt on the initial figures.

A Reddit user noted that StatCounter’s data showed Pixel’s market share jumping between 5% and 20%, inversely mirroring the iPhone’s share. This inconsistency likely stems from how the data is collected—by tracking web traffic across numerous websites. Such data naturally varies as traffic patterns shift over time.

The Bigger Picture: Consistent Growth Over Time

Despite the short-term volatility, the broader trend is clear: Pixel is steadily gaining traction in the US market. Analyzing StatCounter’s figures for October and November reveals an average market share of 12.2% for Pixel devices, compared to 52.9% for iPhones and 23.8% for Samsung. This marks a significant improvement for Google, even if the earlier claims of 14.6% share seem overstated.

When examining the data from August through November, a pattern emerges. The Pixel’s share consistently climbed above 8% before the reported volatility began in October. This suggests that while the peak numbers might not fully reflect reality, Google’s upward trajectory in the smartphone market is undeniable.

What’s Driving Pixel’s Growth?

The Pixel series has been gaining momentum thanks to innovative features, competitive pricing, and growing brand recognition. Google’s recent record-breaking sales quarters and the inclusion of Pixel devices in top-10 lists further underline its progress. These achievements come amid strong competition from Apple and Samsung, making Google’s success in carving out a larger market share all the more impressive.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2024

As 2024 approaches, more comprehensive data reports will likely clarify the extent of Pixel’s growth. While StatCounter’s figures provide valuable insights, they are best viewed as part of a broader context rather than definitive metrics. Continued sales performance and market analysis will shed more light on whether Google can maintain this upward trajectory.

Conclusion: A Positive Outlook for Pixel

Despite the fluctuating numbers, the long-term trend for Google Pixel devices is one of growth. The data shows that Google is making inroads in the competitive US smartphone market, challenging established players. As the Pixel brand continues to evolve, its future in the market looks promising.

Google has rolled out significant updates to the navigation and interface of Google Photos on the web and the Google Drive file picker on Android. These changes aim to enhance user experience by making it easier to access important features and files. Let’s dive into the updates.

Google Photos Introduces “Collections” on the Web

After launching the Collections feature on Android and iOS in August, Google Photos has now brought it to the web, replacing the Library section. The redesigned interface simplifies navigation while aligning with the mobile app’s layout.

Key Changes in Google Photos Web:

1. Side Panel Updates:
   • The Explore tab has been removed.
   • Sharing has been replaced by an Updates tab, which provides:
     • Notifications for shared albums, conversations, partner sharing, memories, and storage updates.
     • A refreshed design consistent with the mobile app, introduced earlier in November.
2. Introducing “Collections”:
   • The former Library section is now called Collections.
   • The interface prioritizes dropdowns for Albums and Documents, moving Favorites down the list.
   • Quick-access categories now include:
     • People & Pets
     • Places
     • Videos
     • Recently Added
   • These changes mimic the grid-style organization introduced earlier for mobile users.
3. Other Menu Updates:
   • Archive, Locked Folder, and Trash are easily accessible.
   • While the new layout is busier, it takes full advantage of the web’s larger screen real estate.

This redesigned Collections view has been gradually rolled out in recent days, streamlining organization for desktop users.

Google Drive File Picker Gets a Smarter Redesign on Android

The Google Drive file picker, used in apps like Gmail, Google Chat, and other Workspace tools, has received a much-needed update on Android. The changes focus on improving file visibility and reducing navigation steps.

What’s New in the Google Drive File Picker?

1. New Carousel Layout:
   • The previous list view (which displayed My Drive, Computers, Shared with Me, Starred, and Recent) has been replaced by a carousel format.
   • Users can now see folders/views at the top, with a list of Recent files displayed immediately upon opening the picker.
2. Improved Usability:
   • The update eliminates extra taps, making it quicker to find recently accessed files.
   • Users can still toggle between list view and grid view for flexibility.
3. Enhanced Clarity:
   • Google explains that the new layout highlights storage locations beyond “My Drive,” including shared drives and other items you can access.

Where to See the Update?

This redesigned picker is live in:

• Gmail: Under Compose > paperclip icon > Insert from Drive.
• Google Chat: Under conversation > plus menu > Drive.

The web version of the file picker received a similar redesign last year, setting the stage for a more unified experience across platforms.

Why These Updates Matter

Both updates emphasize efficiency and usability:

• Google Photos’ Collections provides faster access to key categories, aligning web and mobile experiences.
• The Drive file picker redesign simplifies file selection, especially for shared work environments.

These changes underscore Google’s ongoing commitment to making their apps more intuitive and productive for users across devices. If you’re using these features, be sure to check out the latest updates for a smoother experience.

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.