Google Unveils March Pixel Drop: Real-Time Location Sharing, AI Icons, and More for Android Users
Google presented the March Pixel Drop update and a number of new features for the Android ecosystem. Some changes are available to all users.
What is known
One of the key innovations concerns the Find Hub. The service now allows real-time location sharing directly in Google Messages chats, as well as transferring tracking data to airlines in case of baggage loss. Google announced a partnership with ten carriers who have integrated Find Hub into the lost items return process. For this, the suitcase must be equipped with a compatible tracker or a Find Hub network tag. Users can turn off access to their location at any time.
Among the visual changes is the appearance of a personalized Calling Card in the Phone by Google app. Android owners will be able to customize the photo, font, and card color that will be displayed during calls with friends. In addition, Google Play will feature the short video feed Google Play Shorts, which will demonstrate apps in action and help with their selection.
The Pixel Drop update also expands the capabilities of Circle to Search: the tool will become more convenient for virtual clothing try-ons and product searches from videos or social networks. The Magic Cue feature, which debuted with the Pixel 10, will now be able to offer restaurant recommendations. Pixel users will have the ability to create AI-generated icons for the home screen in six styles.
For Pixel Watch, notifications have been added for a forgotten or lost smartphone, Express Pay support, earthquake warnings, and expansion of the Satellite SOS feature in Europe, Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska.
Source: Google
