Google rolls out new features for Android and Wear OS

Google has introduced new updates for Android, aiming to streamline your daily activities across various devices. These updates cater to phones, tablets, Wear OS smartwatches, and Android Auto-compatible cars.

New Android features – February 2024

Stay Safe on the Road

Android Auto now utilizes AI to summarize lengthy texts and group chats while driving. It offers relevant suggestions for replies and actions, allowing users to respond or initiate calls with a single tap.

AI-Generated Image Captions

Lookout on Android now offers AI-generated image captions, benefiting blind and low-vision communities.

Users can listen to automatic descriptions of photos, online images, and pictures in messages, now available globally in English.

Enhanced Accessibility in Maps

Lens in Maps now offers improved screen reader support, enabling users to explore nearby locations and identify places like ATMs, restaurants, and transit stations.

Pointing the phone’s camera at surroundings prompts TalkBack to read out vital information such as business hours and directions.

Handwritten Markups in Docs

Google Docs on Android devices now allow users to add handwritten annotations using their finger or stylus.

With various markup tools available, reviewing documents and providing feedback becomes fast and flexible.

Seamless Spotify Casting Controls

Users can switch between devices seamlessly while using Spotify, similar to YouTube Music. The output switcher now displays Spotify Connect devices, ensuring uninterrupted media playback.

Comprehensive Health Data Integration

The redesigned Fitbit app now integrates health, wellness, and fitness data from various wearables and apps.

Users can access a holistic view of their health data within the app, including exercise, steps, calories burned, and distance traveled.

Access Passes from Wear OS Watches

Google Wallet passes are now accessible on Wear OS watches, enabling users to access boarding passes, event tickets, memberships, and loyalty cards directly from their wrist.

Transit Directions on Wear OS

Google Maps on Wear OS provides public transit directions, allowing users to view departure times and receive compass-guided navigation directions directly from their smartwatch.

Gemini Integration in Messages

Starting this week in beta in English, users can chat with Gemini directly in Google Messages.

Gemini assists in drafting messages, brainstorming ideas, planning events, or engaging in casual conversations within the Messages app.

Availability

Google is rolling out these updates starting today. You can check more details on android.com/updates.