Google tests new ‘Smart Search’ feature internally – A Sneak Peek

Google is currently experimenting with a new feature called “Smart Search” for its search engine. This new mode is designed to handle questions that are more open-ended or exploratory, giving users a more interactive way to learn and explore topics.
According to an internal email seen by 9to5Google, Google is inviting its employees to try out this “Smart Search” feature. Google describes it as a tool that “smartly researches for you, breaking down information into easy-to-understand summaries with links to dive deeper into web content.”
Smart Search targets questions that traditional search results might not handle well, like seeking advice or making comparisons. Examples provided to employees include:
- “How much spaghetti do I need for dinner with 6 adults and 10 kids, including leftovers?”
- “What are the differences between wool, down, and synthetic jackets regarding warmth, water resistance, and how long they last?”
- “What do I need to start an underwater garden?”
- Follow-up: “Where can I buy these supplies locally?”
This new mode is powered by a tailored version of Google’s AI technology, which enhances its ability to think and reason more like a human. Although the design isn’t final, there’s a glimpse of how it will look on desktop, showing a user-friendly, chat-like interface similar to other AI chatbots.
When you enter a query, you’ll see an option for “Smart Search” next to usual tabs like Images, News, and Shopping. Instead of the typical list of search results, you get a comprehensive answer in a full-screen view, with links to further information on the side for those who want to learn more. There’s also a space at the bottom to ask more questions or follow-ups, with voice input available on mobile devices.
Currently, this feature is being tested with Google employees in the US, with potential plans for a wider release this year. Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, recently hinted that 2025 could be a pivotal year for innovations in search technology.
YouTube Music adds new feature to keep song volume steady

YouTube Music is rolling out a new feature called “Stable volume” to make your listening experience better. This option helps keep the sound level the same across all songs, so you won’t have to turn the volume up or down when switching tracks.
Sometimes, songs are louder or softer depending on how they were made. This new feature fixes that by adjusting each track so that all music plays at a similar volume. It’s especially useful when you’re using headphones or listening in the car.
You can find this option in the YouTube Music app by going to Settings > Playback & restrictions, where you’ll see a switch for “Stable volume.” It works for both free and Premium users, and it’s now appearing on Android devices (version 7.07 or later). iOS support may come soon, but it’s not available yet.
This is a welcome update, as many streaming apps like Spotify and Apple Music already have similar volume balancing tools. It helps make playlists and albums sound smoother and more enjoyable without constant volume changes.
So far, the feature is being released in stages, so you might not see it right away, but it should show up soon for everyone.
Android
Android 16 beta adds battery health info, Pixel Fold gets better at detecting opens and closes

Google has released the Android 16 Beta 1 update for Pixel phones, and it brings some helpful new features. One of the key additions is battery health information, which is now available in the settings. Pixel users can now see the battery’s manufacturing date, charge cycles, and overall health score. This can help people understand how well their battery is holding up over time. While this feature is currently hidden under developer options, it might be fully added in a future update.
At the same time, Google is also working to improve the Pixel Fold. With Android 16 Beta 1, there’s a new system that better detects when the phone is opened or closed. This new method uses the hinge angle to more accurately understand the device’s position. Unlike older systems that could be affected by software bugs or slow response times, this new one seems to be more reliable and faster.
These changes are important for people who use foldable phones like the Pixel Fold, as better hinge detection can lead to smoother app transitions and fewer bugs. And for all Pixel users, having detailed battery info can help with managing phone performance and deciding when it’s time for a battery replacement.
Overall, Android 16 Beta 1 focuses on giving users more control and smoother experiences, especially for those with foldables.
Android
Android 16 could bring colorful always-on display to Pixel phones

Google is working on Android 16, and it looks like the update could bring more color to the always-on display (AOD) feature on Pixel phones. Right now, the AOD mostly shows white text on a black screen. But a new setting found in the Android 16 Developer Preview hints at the ability to add colors to this display.
The new feature is called “AOD Preview,” and it includes a switch labeled “Color AOD.” While this setting doesn’t work yet, it suggests that Google might be planning to show colorful content even when the screen is in low-power mode.
This change could make AOD look more lively, maybe by adding color to the clock, notifications, or wallpaper. So far, it’s not clear exactly what will change or how customizable it will be, but the feature seems to be in early testing.
Samsung already has more colorful AOD options on its Galaxy devices, so this update could help Pixel phones catch up. Google often introduces new features first on Pixel devices before making them available to other Android phones.
Android 16 is still being developed, and many features are not ready yet. But if Color AOD becomes part of the final release, Pixel users could get a more vibrant and useful always-on display in the near future.
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