Not Much to Shout About, But Not Bad Either
Google’s latest Pixel Drop for April has arrived, and yeah, it’s a bit subdued – but still worth a gander if you own a Pixel. Don’t anticipate a lengthy list of 20 flashy features. This month it’s a bit sparse, but I’ll give them credit – what’s included is genuinely impressive.
Gemini Live: Now It Actually Understands What You’re Referring To
Snap a Pic, Pose a Query
Let’s cut to the chase – here’s the standout feature: Gemini Live. It’s part of this new AI initiative Google’s been promoting lately. Now you can properly show Gemini what you’re looking at by utilizing your phone camera or even sharing your screen. It’s like granting your phone vision – and your silly inquiries some context.
So, for instance, if you’re at the aquarium with your kid and he asks “what sort of shark is that?” rather than fabricating something like “it’s Steve the Friendly Shark,” you can actually ask Gemini Live, and it’ll provide you with an answer that won’t make you look daft in front of the school group.
Who Gets It?
Now before you start waving your credit card around – it’s not limited to just Pixel 9 users. Yes, if you possess any version of the Pixel 9, you’ll receive it for free. Otherwise, you’ll need to shell out for a Gemini Advanced subscription. So if you’re still using a Pixel 7, like some kind of peasant, well… tough luck unless you’re willing to pay.
Scam Detection Comes to Pixel Watches (Sort Of…)
But Only If Everything Falls into Place
Alright, so the other “feature” this month is designated for the Pixel Watch 2 and Watch 3. However, before you get all hyped up and start showing off your wrist to strangers, there’s a catch – a lot of them.
You need:
– A Pixel Watch 2 or 3
– A Pixel 9
– Bluetooth on
– To be located in the US
– And communicate in English
So unless you’re a tech-savvy college student from the US named Brad, this might not apply to you. But for those who fit the criteria, you’re getting Scam Detection on your wrist. It’ll notify you mid-call if it suspects you’re conversing with a dodgy character trying to obtain your banking details.
According to Google: “Your Pixel Watch alerts you to a scam mid-call when it receives a Bluetooth signal from your Pixel 9 Phone. So if you’re on the move, you can be warned about a scam call without needing to pull out your phone.”
Smart stuff. Pity it’s locked down tighter than a Greggs after hours.
Still Interested? Discover More
If you’re still intrigued, check out the full scoop over at GadgetLad’s perspective on the anti-scam feature. Don’t say I didn’t caution you about the hassle.
Summary
‘One Trick Drop-Pony, But It’s a Brilliant Trick’
Yes, Google didn’t exactly go all out with this Pixel Drop, but the Gemini Live feature is genuinely clever and actually beneficial. Whether you’re a frazzled parent, a curious geek, or someone who enjoys pointing their phone at odd stuff and asking questions, this one’s aimed at you.
The watch update is a bit “meh” unless you inhabit ‘MURICA and meet all the requirements. Still, kudos to Google for attempting to protect us from scammers – even if they’ve made it tougher to access than your ex’s Netflix password.
For more straight-talking, honest, clever (and occasionally cheeky) takes on tech, keep coming back right here on GadgetLad.co.uk – where I dish it out as it is, whether you appreciate it or not.
