Google is introducing a new feature drop for both Pixel phones and the Pixel Watch, which includes updates such as faster nighttime photography and wider availability of features like Magic Eraser, Health Connect, and Direct My Call+. Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro users can now enjoy faster Night Sight, thanks to improved algorithms on the Tensor chip inside the phones. Magic Eraser, which allows users to remove unwanted elements from photos and fill in backgrounds seamlessly, was initially available only on the Pixel 6 but is now accessible on all Pixel handsets and Google One.
In addition, Google’s Health Connect app, a hub for storing health and fitness data from various apps, will now come pre-installed on Pixels. Finally, Direct My Call+ arrives on the Pixel 4a and older models. This feature lets you see businesses’ call menu trees before they’re spoken, allowing you to skip the most tedious part of dialing customer service.
Additionally, Google reiterated its addition of Fall Detection on the Pixel Watch (it began rolling out last month). Similar to the Apple Watch feature of the same name, it can detect a hard fall and call emergency services if you’re unresponsive. At that point, it will play an automated message to the dispatcher or let you speak to them live.
Google is bringing photo features that were once exclusive to recent Pixel phones to more devices. Magic Eraser, a tool that can easily remove unwanted people or objects from an image, debuted in 2021 on the Pixel 6. It also has a feature called camouflage, which you can use to change the color of objects to make them blend in with the rest of the image and help other elements stand out.
Starting today, Google is rolling out Magic Eraser to Pixel 5a and earlier models. The same goes for Google One. In the coming weeks, members on all plans will have access to Magic Eraser through Google Photos, even if they’re on iOS. Editing features are not available on the Google Photos web app, unfortunately.
All Pixel models and Google One subscribers will also gain access to an HDR effect that can be applied to videos to boost the brightness and contrast. The feature was already available for still images. Moreover, those with older Pixel devices and a One membership will gain access to more styles (i.e., designs) in the Google Photos collage editor starting today.
It’s not a massive shock that Google is bringing Magic Eraser and other Photos features to One and older Pixel devices. It often debuts new tools on its latest flagship devices before introducing them elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Google is offering One subscribers in some territories another perk. Those in the US, Canada, European Union and UK can now get free shipping on orders from the print store.
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