Google reveals 23 important updates coming to Pixel devices.
The October 2024 update for Google's Pixel devices has arrived, bringing significant new features for all models. Below are the main highlights.
Users of Google Pixel devices are receiving significant updates. Today, Android 15 is officially launched, and in addition, Google is introducing a series of features in the October 2024 update for Pixel phones, tablets, and smartwatches. This rollout will begin today, October 15, so if you haven't received it yet, it's recommended to keep checking. As long as your device is compatible, it should receive this update.
Among the highlights for Pixel phones is Theft Protection, which will be available for the Pixel 6 models and later. This feature, part of Android 15, offers a set of tools to protect the device at different stages of a theft. For example, the Theft Detection system uses Google's artificial intelligence to identify if the phone has been snatched and the thief is trying to escape, automatically locking the device's screen. Another useful feature is Remote Lock, which allows you to quickly lock your phone using just the device number and a brief security challenge from any other device.
The new Private Space feature is also part of Android 15, allowing users to create an area on the home screen that they can hide and secure with a discreet PIN for apps with sensitive information.
Photography enthusiasts will benefit from new features such as the Night Sight mode in Instagram, which allows capturing high-quality images in low-light conditions without the need for a flash, available for all Pixel devices from Model 6 onwards, excluding the A series. The ability to take underwater photos and videos is also added, enhancing color and detail capture, although this feature is only available on the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL models. Additionally, astrophotography receives improvements with a new mode, accessible to all Pixel devices 6 and later.
The temperature sensor on the Pixel 8 Pro has received significant updates, allowing the camera to be used as a viewfinder for real-time readings and to store measurements. A new weather app, Pixel Weather, is also being launched, which includes a pollen data block, available from Pixel 6 and Pixel Tablet onwards.
Regarding Pixel watches, the Contacts app will be improved, making it easier to access favorite contacts through a new individual tile. Reacting to emails with emojis has also been simplified, allowing users to view quick replies from the watch. The Heart Rate Loss Detection feature, which notifies emergency services in critical health conditions, is expanding to more markets.
The Pixel Tablet and Pixel Buds will also receive new features. The Pixel Tablet will include a new Panel screensaver, allowing for more efficient control of smart devices. Meanwhile, the Pixel Buds will incorporate Gemini functionality, enabling interaction without needing to take out the phone.
In the coming days, it will be possible to transfer media from the Pixel Tablet to Pixel devices, with the casting feature enabled for several models. To check the availability of the update on your Pixel device, access the Settings app, then go to System > Software updates > System update. Google tends to roll out these updates gradually, so you should receive yours soon.
