Hidden AI gems from Google’s 2024 event

Top 3 Key Points:
- Call Notes: Saves call summaries and transcripts directly on your Pixel 9 device.
- Pixel Studio: AI-powered app for creating and editing images, but can’t generate human faces yet.
- Pixel Screenshots: New app that makes your screenshots searchable by analyzing their content.
Google’s annual Made by Google 2024 event brought a flurry of announcements, especially around AI. Among the numerous updates, several interesting AI-driven features may have gone unnoticed. Here’s a closer look at some of the most intriguing ones.
Call Notes: Your Conversation Companion
For those who struggle with keeping track of conversations, Google has introduced Call Notes on the Pixel 9 series. This feature saves a summary and a transcript of your phone calls directly in your call log. While this might raise some privacy concerns, Google assures users that the feature operates entirely on-device. Plus, everyone on the call is notified when the recording starts.
Pixel Studio: Creativity Meets AI
Exclusive to the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel Studio is a new app powered by AI that allows users to generate images based on prompts. It uses a combination of on-device AI and Google’s Imagen 3 model running in the cloud. While it’s a powerful tool for creative expression, it’s worth noting that the app currently doesn’t support generating human faces—likely a precaution after issues with the earlier Gemini model. Pixel Studio requires an internet connection for use, and you can easily share your creations via Google Messages.
Pixel Screenshots: Making Screenshots Smarter
If you’re someone who takes a lot of screenshots for quick reference, Pixel Screenshots is set to make your life easier. This new app uses AI to analyze the content of your screenshots—be it text, people, or objects—making them fully searchable. Unlike Google Photos, Pixel Screenshots work directly on your device. For example, if you’ve been saving ideas for a friend’s squirrel-themed birthday, the app will allow you to search for “squirrel” and find all related images along with links and summaries.
With these updates, Google is making AI more accessible and practical in everyday tasks, offering tools that not only enhance creativity but also improve productivity.
Google Meet gets a fresh new look with Material 3 design

Google Meet is getting a big update to its look, thanks to the new Material 3 design. This change brings a cleaner and more modern style to the video calling app, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.
With Material 3, Google Meet now has rounder buttons, softer colors, and better spacing between elements. The main controls, like the microphone, camera, and end call buttons, are now larger and easier to tap. The icons and text are also clearer, which helps users find what they need quickly during a call.
Another improvement is the new “expressive” color system. This feature lets the app’s colors match your device’s wallpaper or theme, giving each user a unique and personalized experience. The changes also make Google Meet more accessible, as the new design is easier to read and use for everyone, including people with vision difficulties.
These updates are rolling out to both web and mobile versions of Google Meet. Google says the new look will help people feel more comfortable and focused during their meetings. Overall, the Material 3 update makes Google Meet not only look better but also work better for all its users.
Android
Easy ways to change Android Auto’s look with light and dark themes

Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google Drive and Files by Google get fresh updates for easier use

Google is rolling out some helpful updates to two of its popular apps: Google Drive and Files by Google. These changes are designed to make managing your files and watching videos much smoother.
First, Google Drive is getting a new video player. Now, when you upload a video to Drive and open it, you’ll notice a fresh look that matches Google’s latest design style. The controls, like play and pause, are easier to use and look cleaner. This update makes it simpler to watch videos directly in Drive without needing to download them first.
Meanwhile, the Files by Google app is also getting a makeover. The app is adopting Google’s Material 3 design, which means it looks brighter and more modern. The buttons and menus are easier to see and use, making it simpler to find, move, and organize your files. There are also new color options and improved icons, so everything feels more user-friendly.
Both updates show Google’s commitment to making its apps more helpful and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re watching videos in Drive or sorting files on your phone, these changes aim to save you time and make things less complicated. If you use these apps, keep an eye out for these new features—they should arrive soon!
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