Google has rolled out its highly anticipated December Feature Drop for Pixel devices, introducing a slew of innovative features powered by its latest AI model, Gemini Nano. Among the highlights is the exclusive Video Boost on the Pixel 8 Pro, leveraging Tensor G3 for cloud-based video processing, enhancing parameters like lighting, color, stabilization, and more.
Video Boost on Pixel 8 Pro:
The Pixel 8 Pro now boasts Video Boost, a feature teased during the device’s launch event. This Pixel-exclusive feature processes videos in the cloud, adjusting various aspects such as lighting, color, and stabilization. Night Sight video, using AI to reduce noise in low-light conditions, is also part of this enhancement.
Gemini Nano-Powered Features:
Gemini Nano, the lightweight version of Google’s latest AI model, makes its debut on the Pixel 8 Pro. The December Feature Drop brings Summarize to the Recorder app, allowing users to generate summaries of recorded conversations, interviews, and presentations. Additionally, Gboard Smart Reply gets an upgrade, offering high-quality responses with conversational awareness, initially available in WhatsApp.
Pixel Watch Unlock and Repair Mode:
The update extends beyond AI features, introducing Pixel Watch Unlock, allowing quick phone unlocking when the Pixel Watch is nearby. Furthermore, Google introduces Repair Mode, a security measure safeguarding personal data during phone repairs.
Night Sight in Timelapse and Other Enhancements:
Capture stunning Timelapse videos with Night Sight on the Pixel 8 series, provided the phone is placed on a stable surface. The update also enhances existing features like Photo Unblur, catering to sharper photos of pets and people.
Gemini Nano Integration Across Pixel Devices:
Gemini Nano’s integration extends beyond the Pixel 8 Pro, enhancing the user experience on compatible Pixel phones. Google emphasizes on-device processing, ensuring user data stays secure and processes are swift.
Google’s Push for AI Integration in Pixel Devices
Google’s commitment to integrating AI into Pixel devices is evident with the December Feature Drop. The Pixel 8 Pro becomes the initial platform for Gemini Nano, delivering a range of on-device AI capabilities. Smart Reply on Gboard and Recorder’s Summarize feature showcase the AI model’s prowess, with plans for further expansion to other apps.
Pixel 8 Pro: A True AI Phone:
Google positions the Pixel 8 Pro as a flagship embodying its AI experiment, empowered by the Gemini Nano AI model. The slimmed-down version ensures on-device tasks, including Smart Reply and Recorder’s auto summarize, providing users with efficient and secure AI experiences.
Android 14 and Beyond:
As Google integrates AI capabilities into Pixel devices, Android 14 receives upgrades to support background AI tasks. Gemini Nano’s collaboration with Android AICore aims to facilitate seamless integration with various apps and newer chipsets, signaling a future where AI plays a central role in smartphone functionalities.
In summary, Google’s December Pixel Feature Drop marks a significant leap in AI integration, offering Pixel users a host of innovative features powered by the advanced Gemini Nano model. The update not only enhances existing functionalities but also paves the way for a future where AI becomes intrinsic to the smartphone experience.
