google has Announced a host of Android updates that should make phones and tablets more useful for many people. One of the most notable changes is to Near Share, Google’s take on Apple’s AirDrop, which should make it easier to transfer files between your own Android devices. After opting for the auto-sharing feature, your Android devices will automatically accept files from each other, even if the screen is off. So you may soon no longer need to email a file from your phone to your tablet or Chromebook. The autoshare option should be available in the coming weeks.
It’s unclear when you’ll be able to see some of the other recently announced features, including more accessibility settings. Android has a feature called that is designed to help deaf and hard of hearing people. When the feature is enabled, you can hear sounds like fire alarms, door knocking, and running water, and alert the user with a visual notification or vibration on a phone or watch. Soon, users will be able to add custom sounds to their alert library. They will be able to record audio from home appliances, etc., and be notified when their device hears that sound again.
Google TV now has a selection of movies with audio descriptions. You can find them through Google Assistant by saying “Search movies with audio description”. Additionally, Google is adding a multi-pin option for Meet video calls. This will allow users to pin feeds of, say, the speaker and a sign language interpreter, or perhaps a friend to see their reaction to what is being said a little more clearly.
SharePlay-style options are also coming to Meet. You’ll be able to watch YouTube videos and play games with up to 100 friends and family simultaneously. Google says this feature is rolling out to Android phones and tablets.
In addition to those changes, you can expect updated Drive and Keep widgets, more Emoji Kitchen combinations in Gboard, and a way to include more emoji in your messages with a tap (or, in other words, “emojify” whatever you’re typing). . On Wear OS devices, there will be a new Keep tile, with the option to dictate a note or checklist, while Snapchat’s Bitmoji is coming to watch faces.
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