News
Google Photos revamps video editor with AI presets, Android Auto enhances lane guidance, and Google Home updates device settings
Top 3 Key Points:
- Google Photos introduces AI-powered video editing presets for easier video creation.
- Android Auto improves lane guidance visibility in Google Maps for smoother navigation.
- Google Home app updates settings pages for TVs, cameras, and other media-focused devices.
Google Photos Video Editor Redesign
Google Photos is rolling out a new video editor design to make it simpler for users to turn their videos into shareable clips. The main editing tools are now prominently placed within the “Video” tab, including options like “Mute,” “Enhance,” “Speed,” “Stabilize,” and “Export Frame.”
One of the key features is the “Enhance” tool, which improves colors and stabilizes videos with a single tap. The Speed tool allows users to either speed up their videos for action-packed moments or slow them down for dramatic effects. Additionally, the Trim tool has been upgraded with better controls for precise cuts, while the Export Frame has been moved to the end of the carousel for easier access.
A new “Presets” tab includes AI-powered video presets, offering options such as:
- Basic Cut: Trim, adjust lighting, and control speed.
- Slow-mo: Apply a slow-motion effect.
- Zoom: Highlight key action by zooming in.
- Track: Automatically track the main subject in the video.
This updated video editor is gradually being made available to users.
Android Auto Enhances Lane Guidance in Google Maps
Google Maps on Android Auto has improved its lane guidance feature, making it easier to read and follow while driving. The latest update rolled out over the past few weeks, increases the spacing between arrows in lane guidance. This small change makes it easier to see how many lanes are available and highlights the correct lane more clearly.
Previously, lane guidance was more condensed, making it harder to distinguish between lanes. Now, the arrows appear in a larger, more spaced-out block that is easier to understand at a glance. Although a minor tweak, this change improves the navigation experience, especially when driving in busy areas with multiple lanes.
This update likely aligns with other recent Google Maps improvements, though the widely anticipated incident reporting feature is still pending release for Android Auto.
Google Home Updates Device Settings for TVs, Cameras, and More
Google Home app has received a subtle but useful update that revamps the settings pages for various devices, particularly those related to media. Users accessing settings for TVs, cameras, speakers, soundbars, and other similar devices will now see a clearer layout, making it easier to manage these devices.
When navigating to device settings, users will find a larger, more visible icon representing the device, along with its name and type. Previously, this information was accessible but required more clicks. The update simplifies the interface, giving users a more streamlined view.
The changes currently apply to devices such as Nest cameras, thermostats, doorbells, and smart displays, while other devices like lighting gear, hubs, switches, and sensors have not yet received the new UI. This redesign focuses on devices that handle media, like streaming video or live feeds.
This new round of updates across Google Photos, Android Auto, and the Google Home app highlights the company’s focus on making everyday tasks more intuitive, whether it’s editing a video, navigating the roads, or managing smart home devices.
Google Photos is rolling out a powerful new feature called Ask Photos! This AI-powered tool lets you search your photo library with natural language questions. Gone are the days of clunky keywords. Now, you can ask things like “Show me Halloween costumes over the years” or “When did my child learn to swim?”
The feature is still in its early stages, but it shows great promise. It appears as a new tab in the Photos app, replacing the “Search” function. Initially, it focuses on recognizing people and places in your photos. It might not be perfect for events or objects yet, but it’s constantly learning.
Signing Up for Ask Photos:
While not available to everyone yet, Google opened a waitlist last month. If you signed up, keep an eye out for the update! For others, the waitlist is still open (US only for now).
A New Look for Google Shopping:
In addition to the exciting Photos update, Google Shopping is getting a makeover! It seems a new logo is on the way, replacing the familiar price tag icon. The new logo is a simplified shopping bag in Google’s signature colors, swirling together for a clean, modern look.
The website itself might also be getting a refresh. We spotted glimpses of a redesigned site with a user-friendly layout and helpful features like browsing recommendations and price comparisons.
What’s Next?
While official announcements from Google are likely forthcoming, these updates hint at exciting things to come for Google Photos and Shopping. Ask Photos has the potential to revolutionize how you search your memories, and the Google Shopping revamp promises a more streamlined shopping experience.
Google has released a new version of Android Auto, version 13.0. While you won’t see any big changes on the surface, some important updates are happening under the hood.
What’s New?
- Car Media: Google is working on a new feature called “Car Media.” This feature will allow you to easily control your car’s AM/FM radio and local media.
- Bug Fixes: The update includes bug fixes and improvements to make Android Auto run smoothly.
When Will Car Media Be Available?
Google hasn’t announced an official release date for Car Media yet. But they’re actively working on it, and we might see it in a future update.
How to Get Android Auto 13.0
The Android Auto 13.0 update is available now on the Google Play Store. Just search for “Android Auto” and install the latest version.
Gemini’s New Notification System
Google’s latest AI model, Gemini, is bringing some changes to the Pixel Buds. One of the biggest is the way notifications are handled. While you can still get notifications read aloud, Gemini is now focused on messaging apps only. This means you won’t hear notifications from apps like Calendar or Gmail.
Google says they’re working on improving the notification experience, but for now, this might be a bit of a downgrade for many users.
Other Changes
- Gemini Activation: Saying “Hey Google” will now always turn on your phone’s screen.
- Google Home App: The Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Watch 3 will no longer appear in the Google Home app. You’ll need to use the Find My Device app to locate them.
In Summary
Gemini is bringing some exciting new features to the Pixel Buds, but it’s also making some changes that might not be everyone’s favorite. If you’re a Pixel Buds user, it’s worth keeping an eye on these changes and seeing how they impact your experience.
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