Google Pixel Feature Drop December 2023: Gemini Nano Debuts

Google announced today a new software update for Pixel devices featuring various AI-powered features and enhancements. Alongside these updates, Google introduced Gemini Nano, a new AI model specifically designed for on-device tasks, which is now available on Pixel 8 Pro.

Below is a summary of the Pixel Feature Drop for December 2023…

Pixel 8 Pro with Gemini Nano:

• Summarize in Recorder: Get summaries of recorded conversations, interviews, and presentations without needing an internet connection.
• Smart Reply in Gboard: Generate high-quality, context-aware responses in messaging apps like WhatsApp. This feature is currently in developer preview.

Other Pixel Updates:

• Video Boost: Uses Google Tensor G3 to enhance the quality of uploaded videos by adjusting color, lighting, stabilization, and graininess.
• Night Sight Video: Applies noise reduction to videos recorded in low-light conditions.
• Improved Portrait Light: Enables “Balance light” to remove harsh shadows and improve portrait photos.
• Photo Unblur: Now better at sharpening images of dogs and cats.

Productivity Features:

• Dual Screen Preview: Allows users to preview photos on the outer screen of Pixel Fold while setting up the shot on the inner screen.
• High-quality video calls: Connect Pixel phones to laptops or desktops via USB for improved video quality.
• Clean feature: Removes smudges, stains, and creases from scanned documents.
• Passkey support: Google Password Manager can identify accounts that support passwordless logins and help users add them.
• Repair Mode: Protects personal data while your device is being repaired.
• Contextual replies in Call Screen: Google Assistant suggests replies for calls you don’t want to answer.
• Unlock phone with Pixel Watch: Use your Pixel Watch to unlock your Pixel phone when it’s nearby.

Pixel Tablet Features:

• Clear Calling: Reduces background noise and enhances voice quality for video calls.
• Spatial Audio: Creates an immersive sound experience.
• New watch faces and complications: Now available for first-gen Pixel Watch.

Additional Updates:

• Recorder app now transcribes in 28 new languages.
• Direct My Call and Hold for Me expand to more business numbers and regions.
• Weather information added to World Clock tab and widgets.
• Do Not Disturb and Bedtime Modes sync between Pixel Watch and Pixel phone.

Google also told iPhone in Canada this morning that its Bard AI chatbot is coming here “soon”.