Google is rolling out a batch of new features to Android phones. They cover various Android features such as messaging, AI, and a few everyday annoyances people run into during a normal day. So if you own an Android device, here’s a quick look at what’s coming.
Find Hub Can Now Remember Where You Put Things
Starting off with the Find Hub, Google’s app for tracking lost phones and devices, users can look forward to a new AI-powered trick. You’ll be able to tell Gemini where you store things, like your passport or spare keys. That builds a searchable list of your belongings. Later, you can just ask where something is instead of tearing through drawers.
Motion Assist Eases Car Sickness
Next up for those who like to use their phones in their cars (not while driving, of course), if reading or scrolling on your phone in a moving car makes you queasy, this one’s for you. The latest Android update introduces a feature called Motion Assist that adds a subtle bubble overlay to your screen that shifts with the motion of the vehicle. The goal is to give your eyes a visual cue that matches what your inner ear is feeling. That can cut down on that sick, dizzy feeling.
Google Keep Notes Can Live Inside a Group Chat
Google Messages is adding support for Keep, Google’s notes app. You’ll be able to drop a note or list directly into a chat. Anyone in that conversation can then update it. That means a group can build a shared grocery list or hash out vacation plans. That way the details won’t get buried under regular texts.
Gemini Live Can Describe Your Surroundings
Gemini Live’s camera feature is getting a new guided vision mode. Point your camera at your surroundings, and Gemini will describe what it sees out loud. Google says the goal is to extend how well you can read and understand what’s around you. That should help anyone with low vision navigate unfamiliar places.
Chat Themes Bring More Personality to Google Messages
Last, Google Messages is letting you customize the look of individual conversations. You can pick a background wallpaper and set custom bubble colors for each chat. That way, your group chat with friends can look different from the one with your family.
Google hasn’t given an exact date for when each feature reaches every phone. These updates tend to arrive in waves over several weeks, starting with certain phones and countries before spreading further. So don’t worry if you don’t see them all right away. Check your app store for updates over the next few weeks if you’re eager to try them out.