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Google has unveiled a slew of new features and improvements for Android and its apps, just in time for the Mobile World Congress (MWC). The updates range from a new chatbot integration in Google Messages to enhanced accessibility options for visually impaired users.
Google Updates: Chat with Gemini in Google Messages
One of the most notable updates is the introduction of Gemini, Google’s chatbot, in the Google Messages app. Gemini is an AI-powered conversational agent that can chat with users about various topics, such as weather, sports, movies, and more. Users can access Gemini by tapping on the chatbot icon in the Messages app and starting a conversation.
Gemini is currently available only in English and in certain markets, and users need to be enrolled in Google’s beta testing program to try it out. There is no Google One subscription required to use Gemini, at least for now. Google says Gemini is designed to provide a friendly and engaging chat experience. Still, some users may find it lacking in depth and personality compared to other chatbots, such as ChatGPT.
Google Updates: Annotate Google Docs with your finger or stylus
Another update that may appeal to many users is the support for handwritten annotations in Google Docs. This feature allows users to mark notes, comments, or feedback on a document using their finger or a stylus, and choose from different colors of pens and highlighters. This can be useful for editing, reviewing, or collaborating on documents, especially on devices with larger screens like tablets or foldables.
Google says this feature is rolling out to Android phones and tablets, and users can enable it by tapping on the pen icon in the Google Docs app. Users can also erase or undo their annotations, or export them as a PDF file.
Google Updates: Improved accessibility features with generative AI
Google is also leveraging generative AI to enhance the accessibility features of its apps, such as Lookout and Maps. Lookout is an app that helps visually impaired users identify objects and signs around them using their phone’s camera. With the latest update, Lookout can now automatically generate descriptions for images, including those online or in messages, using AI. This can help users get more information and context from visual content.
Maps is another app that is getting an accessibility boost with AI. The lens in the Maps app is getting screen reader improvements that can help users identify and learn more about places of business, such as their hours, ratings, reviews, and contact details. Users can access Lens by tapping on the camera icon in the Maps app and pointing it at a place of interest.
Other Google updates: Android Auto, Spotify, and more
Google has also announced some other minor updates that may improve the user experience of Android and its apps. For example, Android Auto is getting an AI update that can summarize long texts or chat threads and suggest replies or actions based on the context. This can help users stay focused on the road while staying connected with their friends and family.
Google is also making a small change to Android that makes it easier to switch output devices when using Spotify. Users can now see a list of available devices, such as speakers, headphones, or smart TVs, and choose the one they want to play music on.
These are some of the latest updates that Google has announced for Android and its apps, and they show how the company is using AI to improve its products and services. Users can expect to see these updates rolling out in the coming weeks, depending on their device and location.