Pixel 9: Enhanced setup, seamless data transfer, and satellite SOS integration
Top 3 Key Points:
- Improved Setup: Pixel 9 introduces a faster and more flexible data transfer process, including an Express setup for quick migration.
- Seamless Messaging Transfer: Google Messages now offers a carbon copy of your chat history during transfer, ensuring no data is lost.
- Emergency Satellite SOS: Pixel 9 can connect to emergency services via satellite, initially available in the US.
Google has significantly enhanced the setup and data transfer experience with the Pixel 9, making it more user-friendly and efficient. The process now allows users to transfer data multiple times without needing a factory reset, using either a cable, Wi-Fi, or cloud storage. This gives users more control and flexibility during the setup.
A standout feature in the Pixel 9 is the new Express setup, which quickly transfers only media files not backed up to Google Photos in their original quality. This reduces the overall transfer time, providing an estimate to users and ensuring a smooth setup process. For those who prefer to customize their transfer, manual selection options are still available.
Google has also completely rebuilt the infrastructure for transferring Google Messages. With the latest version of Google Messages, users can now transfer a carbon copy of their message history, either via cable or Wi-Fi, making the transition to a new device seamless and reliable.
As promised, Google is now rolling out Satellite SOS to Google Pixel 9 users in the U.S.
Satellite SOS is free for the first two years after activation.
The satellite provider is Skylo and the emergency response is handled by Garmin.
Thanks to winner00 for the screenshots! pic.twitter.com/92lBbGCjbh
— Mishaal Rahman (@MishaalRahman) August 22, 2024
Additionally, more system settings, permissions, and notification preferences are transferred, and more apps will remain logged in during the migration process. This is thanks to Google’s collaboration with top app developers globally, reducing the need to repeatedly enter passwords and log back into apps.
Pixel 9 now supports eSIM transfer during setup for select carriers, adding another layer of convenience. While Google had previously prioritized wireless data transfer, the Pixel 9 will now recommend switching to a cable if Wi-Fi transfer speeds are expected to be slow. However, the wireless transfer process itself has been improved for greater speed and reliability.
One notable innovation is Transport Multiplexing, a feature that combines wired and wireless methods to accelerate data transfer, surpassing the speed of using either method alone.
The Pixel 9 also introduces a feature similar to Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite. Now, users can connect to emergency services when they are outside of network coverage. Initially available in the US, this Satellite SOS feature requires Google Messages to be set as the default messaging app and can be accessed via the Safety & emergency menu in settings.
When using Satellite SOS, users must answer questions to ensure they receive the appropriate assistance. Once connected, the phone will share vital information, including your location and emergency contacts, with the relevant services. Google is offering this service free for the first two years, though future pricing is yet to be disclosed.
This satellite connectivity is powered by Google’s partnership with Skylo, with Garmin handling the emergency responses. While this feature is currently exclusive to the US, it is expected to expand to other regions soon. However, older Pixel models are unlikely to receive this update due to hardware limitations, making the Pixel 9 a standout in terms of connectivity and safety features.
Key points:
- Android 15 for Pixel devices was pushed back to October 15.
- Gemini Live, Google’s AI assistant, is now available for free Android users.
- Pixel 6 and later devices will get Android 15, but Pixel 6/6 Pro won’t get future updates.
Android 15 Delayed
Google’s latest Android update, Android 15, is taking a bit longer to reach Pixel phones. While it was released for developers in September, it won’t be available for Pixel users until October 15th. This delay is likely due to Google wanting to make sure the update is as bug-free as possible.
Gemini Live Goes Free
In other Google news, Gemini Live, the company’s AI assistant, is now free for Android users. This means you can use Gemini to help you with tasks like writing emails, summarizing articles, or even translating languages.
Pixel 6 and Later
The Pixel 6 and later devices will be the first to get Android 15. However, this will also be the last guaranteed update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. While they will continue to receive security updates, they won’t get any new features after Android 15.
Key Points:
- Google Calendar is coming to the New Tab Page in Chrome for Workspace users.
- Circle to Search is expanding to more Android devices, including Xiaomi 14T.
- Chrome is getting other new features for enterprise users.
Google Calendar on Chrome’s New Tab Page:
Google Workspace users will soon see their Google Calendar on the New Tab Page in Chrome. This will make it easier to see upcoming meetings and join them quickly. You’ll also see your daily schedule below the calendar.
Circle to Search Expanding to More Devices:
Circle to Search, a feature that lets you search by drawing circles around objects in your photos, is expanding to more Android devices. This feature was previously limited to Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices, but now it’s coming to Tecno and Xiaomi devices.
Other Chrome Updates:
Chrome is also getting other new features for enterprise users, such as a new sign-in flow that provides more transparency and a feature that lets admins set site shortcuts.
These updates are all designed to make it easier for businesses to use Chrome and Google Workspace.
YouTube is making content creation easier and more fun with new AI features.
- AI-powered video backgrounds: Create stunning visuals for your Shorts videos with Google’s Veo AI model.
- AI-powered video ideas: Get inspiration for your next video with YouTube Studio’s AI-powered brainstorming tool.
- AI-powered comments: Quickly respond to your viewers with AI-suggested replies.
YouTube is adding more AI features to help creators make better videos. One of the biggest announcements is the integration of Veo, a powerful AI model, into YouTube Shorts. This means you can create high-quality backgrounds and even short video clips using just a few words.
Imagine being able to describe a scene, like “a bustling city street at sunset,” and having Veo instantly generate a visually stunning background for your Short. Or, perhaps you need a quick clip to transition between two scenes; Veo can create a short video that perfectly fits your needs.
Another exciting feature is the new AI-powered brainstorming tool in YouTube Studio. This tool can suggest video ideas based on your channel’s history and what’s popular on YouTube. It’s like having a creative assistant that always has fresh ideas.
For example, if you’ve been creating cooking videos, the tool might suggest ideas like “Vegan cooking hacks” or “Quick and easy weeknight meals.” Or, if you’re a gaming channel, it could suggest ideas like “Top 5 new games to try” or “Let’s play a classic game.”
YouTube is also working on AI-powered comments. This feature will suggest replies to comments, making it easier for creators to engage with their audience.
For example, if a viewer leaves a comment saying “Great video!” the AI might suggest a reply like “Thanks for watching!” Or, if a viewer asks a question, the AI could suggest a helpful answer based on the video’s content.
These new AI features are making YouTube an even more powerful platform for creators. By automating tasks like background creation and idea generation, creators can spend more time focusing on what they do best: creating great content.
-
News7 months agoSamsung USA crafting One UI 6.1.1
-
Apps7 months agoGboard Proofread feature will support selected text
-
News6 months ago
Breaking: Samsung Galaxy S22 may get Galaxy AI features
-
News6 months agoSamsung Galaxy S23 Ultra with One UI 6.1 and all S24 AI features revealed
-
News7 months ago
One UI 6.1 Auracast (Bluetooth LE Audio) feature coming to many Samsung phones
-
Apps4 months agoGoogle’s fancy new Weather app is finally available for more Android phones
-
News7 months agoSatellite SOS feature coming to Google Pixel phones, evidence leaked
-
News7 months agoGoogle Pixel evolves as Europe’s third best selling flagship