Chrome’s new tab search and Google Photos’ AI memory boost with Gemini
Top 3 Key Points:
- Chrome for Android’s new tab search feature is in development for easier navigation.
- Google Photos may use Gemini AI to enhance memory recaps with narrative elements.
- Both features are still in the testing phases, not been fully released yet.
Google Chrome, known for being a top-notch web browser on both desktop and mobile, is continuously improving its features. Recently, new updates have been spotted in Chrome Canary, an experimental version of Chrome. One of the standout features in development is a search bar within the tab switcher, specifically for the Android version. Meanwhile, Google Photos might soon introduce AI-powered memory recaps using its advanced Gemini AI.
Chrome for Android: Search Through Open Tabs
Chrome Canary often reveals upcoming features before they hit the stable version. A recent addition allows users to search through their open tabs directly from the tab switcher. If you’re the type of user who keeps multiple tabs open, finding a specific one can be tricky. This new feature will make it easier to locate exactly what you need.
According to reports from Leopeva64 on X (formerly Twitter), the new search bar appears right in the tab switcher. When you enter a search term, it will highlight matching results from your open tabs. This could be particularly useful for those using devices with smaller screens, where managing multiple tabs can be more challenging. Although this feature is still in the experimental stage, it’s available to try in the Canary version of Chrome, which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store. However, be aware that Canary isn’t as stable as the public version of Chrome, so you may encounter some bugs.
The new search box in the tab switcher now works in Chrome Canary for Android, the right-facing arrows inside the rectangle indicate that those are your open tabs:https://t.co/2GFOG5iSR9 pic.twitter.com/54bdXu7FEZ
— Leopeva64 (@Leopeva64) September 24, 2024
Google Photos and Gemini AI: A New Way to Relive Memories
Google Photos is widely popular for storing and managing photos and videos. One feature many users enjoy is its “Memories” feature, which shows highlights from past years. Now, it seems that Google is looking to enhance this experience using AI, specifically its Gemini AI.
In the latest Google Photos v7.1, there are signs that Gemini will soon be involved in creating more personalized memory recaps. Currently, memory recaps are simple slideshows of photos and videos with music, but without narration. The addition of AI-powered narration could provide more context to these moments, making them feel even more special. For example, instead of just showing photos from a vacation, Gemini might narrate the event, providing a story-like experience.
Google may limit this feature to certain memory types, like a “Year in Review” recap. Whether Gemini AI will pull additional data from other Google services is still unclear. However, the feature appears to be opt-in, meaning users can choose whether to use it or not. The strings in the latest Google Photos update suggest that this feature might be available by December.
Conclusion
Both Chrome’s new tab search feature and Google Photos’ AI-powered memory recaps are still in testing phases, but they promise to make user experiences more efficient and personalized. Whether it’s finding tabs more easily in Chrome or reliving your favorite memories in a more immersive way through Google Photos, these updates are something to look forward to. As always, being part of experimental updates like Chrome Canary lets you explore these changes before they’re widely available, but with the understanding that some features might still be unstable.
Google Calendar gets a visual overhaul with new features and Google Photos gets smarter
Google Calendar is getting a fresh look with a new visual design. Along with the updated look, Google has added some handy new features to simplify managing your schedule.
One of the most noticeable changes is the return of the three buttons for creating new events. You can now quickly choose between making a regular appointment, a task, or a birthday event.
Birthday Reminders
For birthdays, you can set reminders for the day itself, a week before, or even further in advance. This is a great way to ensure you never forget a special occasion.
Google Photos Gets Smarter
Google Photos is also getting a significant upgrade with the introduction of “Ask Photos”. This new feature allows you to ask questions about your photos using natural language. For example, you could ask “When was the last time I went to the beach?” or “Who is that person in the photo?”
AI-Powered Search
Using artificial intelligence, Ask Photos can analyze your photos and provide relevant answers to your questions. While it’s still in its early stages, Google promises that Ask Photos will become even more powerful over time.
Quick Search Tips for Google Photos and Play Store
Google has also made it easier to search for apps and photos. You can now quickly access the search bar in both Google Photos and the Play Store by double-tapping the search icon. This eliminates the extra step of opening the search tab first.
These new features are a welcome addition to Google Calendar and Google Photos. They make it easier to manage your schedule and find the photos you’re looking for.
Google Photos gets smarter with “Ask Photos” and Google Shopping revamps logo
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.
Android
Android Auto gets a behind-the-scenes update
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.
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