Google has announced its November software update for Pixel phones, known as the Pixel Drop, bringing a series of new features aimed at improving user experience and device performance. The quarterly update introduces AI-powered tools, smarter notification handling, and battery optimization features across multiple Pixel devices.
One of the key highlights of this release is the introduction of notification summaries for long chats and conversations on Pixel 9 and newer models. The feature, similar to Apple’s notification summaries, helps users manage alerts more efficiently. Google also plans to roll out an option in December that will automatically silence low-priority notifications, giving important updates more visibility.
To help users extend battery life, Google has added a new low-power mode for its Maps app. This feature darkens the screen and displays only essential navigation details such as the route and upcoming turns. The company claims this can add up to four extra hours of battery life on Pixel 10 devices.
The Pixel Drop also expands scam detection powered by Gemini Nano, which was previously limited to U.S. users of Pixel 9 and later models. The feature is now available in the U.K., Ireland, India, Australia, and Canada. Google has further enhanced security by adding a “Likely a scam” button in message notifications to help users identify and report suspicious messages easily.
Another major update comes to the Messages app with the new Remix feature, powered by Google’s Nano Banana model and Gemini. It allows users to reimagine photos using text prompts, turning images into creative AI-generated versions. This feature is rolling out in the U.S., U.K., India, Ireland, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand for users with RCS enabled and English language support.
Google Photos has also gained a new AI-assisted editing feature. By tapping “Help me edit,” users can request specific changes such as “Remove Riley’s sunglasses, open my eyes, make Engel smile and open her eyes.” The tool uses Google Photos’ face grouping technology to identify individuals and apply edits accordingly.
Additionally, the update enhances the Pixel VIPs feature introduced earlier this year, allowing users to mark up to eight close contacts for prioritized notifications. If any of them are in an area affected by a crisis such as a flood, a badge will appear next to their name in the contacts widget.
The update also expands the Call Notes transcription feature to Australia, Canada, the U.K., Ireland, and Japan. Google is introducing a new “Wicked: For Good” theme pack with wallpapers, icons, sounds, and GIFs inspired by the upcoming movie, available for Pixel 6 and newer devices.
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