Since Google owns the Android platform, it stands to reason that Google makes some of thebest Android phones. Indeed,Pixel phonesare optimized for Google’s operating system, which means they get the newest Android features before other brands. The Pixel’s camera capabilities are also unparalleled.
I traded my old Samsung Galaxy for a Pixel phone a few years ago, and I’ve never looked back because of the benefits. If you’re on the fence about purchasing a Pixel or already have one and want to know what it can do, here’s a roundup of the best Google Pixel features you won’t find on other Android phones.
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1Circle to Search
Search for anything on your screen
TheCircle to Searchfeature allows you to circle any item displayed on your phone’s screen and search for it online. For instance, if you spot a cool backpack in a picture, simply use your finger or stylus to circle it. If Google locates the item, you can proceed to purchase it.
This functionality resemblesGoogle Lens, which uses your camera to identify objects in the real world. Originally exclusive to thePixel 8, the feature is also now available for thePixel 7andPixel 7 Pro.
2Call Screen
Google can ask whose calling
Call Screenlets you preview incoming calls before answering. When the incoming call notification appears on your screen, simply tap theScreen Callbutton. Google Assistant will step in, answer the call on your behalf, and inquire about the caller’s identity and purpose while transcribing the conversation in real-time.
Google introduced a subtle yet handy enhancement forPixel 6and subsequent models. In cases where the caller remains silent during screening, users can now tap the new “hello” button, prompting Google Assistant to encourage them to speak. Additionally, there’s an option to inform the caller that you’re unable to respond at the moment but will be available shortly.
3Temperature check
The Pixel 8 Pro can take your temperature
ThePixel 8 Proincludes a temperature sensor, enabling you to gauge the temperature of objects, such as a cup of coffee, or individuals. In addition to monitoring your body temperature, thePixel 8 Pro’s temperature sensorcan store body temperature data in the Fitbit app. Just glide your Pixel along your forehead towards your temple for a quick temperature check.
To utilize this feature, you must download the Thermometer app from the Play Store and choose between measuring object temperature or body temperature.
It’s important to note that selecting the incorrect category for objects may impact accuracy, and readings for body temperature may differ from those obtained using traditional thermometers. Nonetheless, this feature remains valuable for a preliminary temperature check.
4Extreme Battery Saver
Survive on low battery for up to 72 hours
Google Pixel phones offer a battery-saving functionality called Extreme Battery Saver, which can extend battery life up to 72 hours by deactivating certain features, pausing apps, and reducing processing speed. This mode also turns off background activities such as notifications and app refreshing, while critical system apps like Phone, Messages, Clock, and Settings remain unaffected.
You have the option to configure it to activate automatically when your battery reaches a designated level, and you can choose which applications remain operational in Extreme Battery Saver mode.
5Motion Mode
Capture fleeting moments
The Pixel 6 andPixel 6 Prointroduced Motion Mode for capturing moving objects. This mode adds a dynamic blur to the background while keeping the camera steady or tracking a moving subject. Motion mode offers two choices: action pan and long exposure.
Action pan is ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as a speeding motorbike. Traditionally, photographers would move the camera alongside the subject to create a blurred background while keeping the subject sharp. With Action pan, the camera analyzes the image to distinguish between stationary and moving elements, ensuring the subject remains clear even while the background blurs. This feature is also available for selfies.
With the Google Pixel 6, AI technology accomplishes this balance, giving the impression of motion in the scene.
On the other hand, long exposure is useful for introducing blur into an otherwise static scene, such as capturing light trails or the flowing motion of a waterfall. Typically, photographers would use a neutral density (ND) filter on a traditional camera to reduce incoming light, allowing for longer exposures without overexposing the image. With the Google Pixel 6, AI technology accomplishes this balance, giving the impression of motion in the scene.
6Hold for Me
Let Google wait for you
Hold for Meis a handy feature that debuted on the Pixel 3. Powered byGoogle Duplex, Hold for Me utilizes AI to identify hold music, recorded messages, and representatives during phone calls. When a representative is detected, Google Assistant alerts you and requests the representative to hold momentarily while you return to the call.
While Hold for Me keeps you on hold, Google’s AI mutes the call, allowing you to view real-time captions. All audio processing occurs on your device, with no data sent to Google. The audio recording and transcript are automatically deleted from your device 48 hours after the call.
7Safety Check
Your Pixel is looking out for you
ThePersonal Safety app, available on both Pixel smartphones and watches, can be a literal lifesaver. For instance, theSafety Checkfeature notifies your contacts if you fail to check in at a designated time, automatically sharing your location for them to either contact emergency services or locate you themselves.
Pixel watches with this capability can detect significant falls and trigger calls for assistance. By rapidly pressing the crown five times or more, you’re able to promptly summon emergency services or reach out to an emergency contact.
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8Best Take
Get better group photos
Capturing good group photos is always a challenge. It usually takes multiple tries to make sure everyone looks their best. Available on the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, Best Take employs artificial intelligence to seamlessly blend group photos into flawless compositions.
The Pixel 8 camera can take several shots and switch people’s facial expressions, so you get the best take of each person. you’re able to find Best Take within the Tools section ofGoogle Photos.
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The Pixel 8’s Best Take feature gets you perfect group photos, but there are some things to remember.
9Quick Tap to Snap
Snapchat simplified
With Quick Tap, you can double-tap the back of your phone to perform various actions, such as opening apps, taking screenshots, controlling media playback, or displaying notifications. The Pixel 6 and later devices also supportQuick Tap to Snap.
By tapping the back of your phone, you can quickly access Snapchat’s “Camera Only” mode to capture photos or videos effortlessly. This collaboration extends further, with Snapchat leveraging some of Google’s advanced Pixel features, such as live translation.
10Magic Editor
Resize and rearrange your photos
Magic Editoris a feature within Google Photos that leverages AI to offer guided edits for your images. One of the most compelling capabilities of Magic Editor is generative in-filling. You may have encountered similar functionality with Magic Eraser, which replicates small sections of background, but Magic Editor takes it a step further.
Instead of simply filling the area with content from nearby pixels, it employs advanced AI to understand the broader context of the image, enabling it to utilize more appropriate contextual imagery. You can also resize, rearrange, and even erase individual objects in an image.
