The Lunar New Year has officially arrived, and 2026 is particularly special as it marks the Year of the Fire Horse. This specific combination only happens once every 60 years. Google is leaning into this spirit by launching several new features across its apps and devices.
Google recently shared its plans to help users “take the reins this Year of the Horse.” One of the biggest updates is a global Google Doodle that honors the Fire Horse. This artwork showcases the different ways people around the world celebrate the holiday.
For those planning a big celebration, Google is highlighting its AI assistant, Gemini. The company says, “You can use Gemini to prepare for the holiday, whether to learn about traditions or get ideas for your family’s reunion dinner.” This is a practical way to use AI without getting bogged down in technical settings. You can simply ask for recipe ideas or help writing a greeting for a red envelope.
If you are a fan of mobile photography, Google is using this moment to show off the Pixel 10 Pro. The company’s camera team traveled to Jiufen, Taiwan, to capture the essence of the festival. They are sharing tips on how to use features like Pro Zoom and Portrait Mode to get the best shots of lanterns and street food.
For people staying at home, Google TV has added a dedicated section for the holiday. It features shows and movies that match the “horse’s spirit,” including classic blockbusters from previous years of the Horse. You can also find new festive backgrounds for your Google Meet calls. If you want to change the look of your browser, Chrome is offering new themes from the Asian & Pacific Islander Artists Series.
One of the most useful features for Canadians is the “Asian-owned” attribute in Google Search and Maps. This makes it easier to find and support local businesses in your neighborhood during the 15-day celebration.
Google Arts & Culture is also offering a virtual way to explore various Chinatowns across North America, which is a great way to learn about the history of these communities.
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The company’s camera team traveled to Jiufen, Taiwan, to capture the essence of the festival. They are sharing tips on how to use features like Pro Zoom and Portrait Mode to get the best shots of lanterns and street basketball stars