When Android users turn on their phones, they will discover a few new widgets and apps created with productivity and usability in mind. Google described the new capabilities that are now available for some Android smartphones in a blog post that was published on Tuesday.
An AI-powered widget called Assistant At a Glance is first on the list. This widget, which is only compatible with the Google Pixel 3 and later and Android versions 12 and up, seeks to send helpful information right to your home screen. You can access accurate weather warnings, travel updates, and event reminders.
For Android devices that satisfy the requirements, the new widget will be enabled automatically. Press and hold the weather forecast that appears at the top of your home screen, then select Customise to change its appearance or disable the At a Glance widget. Tap the At a glance gear icon on the Home settings screen. Now you may pick the information you wish to receive, such as updates on ridesharing, package delivery, earthquake notifications, and fitness results.
The next feature is geared for those who are blind. Without knowing what each photo in your collection, a group conversation, or on social media is about, scrolling through them might be difficult. An software named Lookout – Assisted Vision makes an effort to explain images in great detail in order to overcome this difficulty.
Point your phone’s camera at something in front of you or access an image from your photo library after installing and starting the app. The app will then give you a description of the image. Additionally, a unique Q&A function enables you to ask follow-up questions to improve your understanding of the image’s contents. The descriptions can presently be heard in 34 different languages on the Lookout app.
A photo import for Google Wallet passes is the third new feature. With this, you may scan passes with barcodes or QR codes and add them to Google Wallet. If you don’t already have Google Wallet, download and install it. Select the type of item you want to add by tapping the Add to Wallet button. Choose or type the card’s name. To add something, scan the barcode or QR code and hit the button. The card is kept digitally and is accessible whenever you need it.
Zoom and Webex are on the way for those who use Android Auto while driving. You may check your meeting schedules and start and join conference calls (audio only) using either app. You can mute your microphone when necessary and end the call when you need to go using Android Auto.
When you wake up in the morning, you may finally access the details of your Fitbit or Google Fit activity and sleep statistics. Try it out by including in your Good Morning ritual the time you went to bed and the amount of hours you slept. Next, say:”Hey Google, good morning,” and you’ll hear a summary of your sleep activity.