Google Pixel update brings AI-powered notification summaries
What's the story
Google has announced an update for its Pixel smartphones, bringing a new feature: notification summaries. The tech giant is taking a cautious approach by only rolling out the feature for chat conversations in this month's update. It will be available only on the Pixel 9 series and newer models, excluding the Pixel 9A.
Feature details
Notification summaries are currently limited to chat conversations
The notification summaries feature, first spotted in an Android 16 beta by Mishaal Rahman of Android Authority, is currently limited to chat apps and longer conversations. This limitation gives the system more context to work with, potentially reducing errors seen in Apple's implementations. Google has also announced that its December update will take things a step further by automatically categorizing notifications and silencing low-priority ones.
Feature expansion
Scam detection now works in 3rd-party chat apps
Google is also expanding its scam detection feature in messages beyond Pixel phones. Now, Pixel 6 and newer models will be able to detect potential scams in third-party chat apps like Telegram and Discord. The notification will show a badge reading "likely scam," and tapping on it will show a system pop-up warning users to be careful.
Feature expansion
Other notable updates in the Pixel phones' November update
Google is also expanding its scam detection feature for calls to Pixel 9 owners in the UK, Ireland, India, Australia, and Canada. The tech giant is also bringing a new crisis badge to the VIP widget for Pixel users in the US. This badge will keep you updated about important alerts like flooding happening around you.
App updates
Google Maps gets a new power saving mode
The update also brings personalized edits for eligible Android users in the US via the Google Photos app. A new Power Saving mode for Google Maps will show a simplified layout with only key information to save battery life. Users can also customize their Pixel using Wicked: For Good theme packs inspired by the film.