Google is introducing an update designed for anyone who likes to share things on their phone.
Android 15 users can use these brand new features to improve accessibility, streamline sharing, and make communication more fun.
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One of these, called ‘Expressive Captions’, aims to capture not just words, but also the tone and emotion behind them. For example, captions might indicate “whispers” during a quiet moment, “cheers and applause” after a party, or even highlight a pause after a joke.
Most interestingly, Google is ensuring that these subtitles will be available in apps such as streaming platforms, social media, and video messaging.
Elsewhere, the ‘Emoji Kitchen’ in Gboard has been expanded, allowing users to combine emojis into custom stickers, reminiscent of the latest iOS 18 ‘Genmoji’ feature.
Additionally, Gboard now includes ‘Clearflow’, a sliding typing keyboard designed for faster and more accurate typing.
Sharing files like photos and videos is also now easier with ‘QR Codes in Quick Share’. Instead of authenticating devices or sharing contacts, users can generate a QR code for a file, which others can scan to access it securely.
For people with blindness or low vision, ‘Lookout’ now offers improved image descriptions with Gemini 1.5 Pro. Users can hear detailed photo captions and ask follow-up questions to understand more about the image.
Additionally, Google Drive now automatically enhances scanned documents by improving contrast, adjusting white balance, and reducing shadows and blur.
Last but not least, the AI Gemini assistant itself also expands its functionality.
Users can now connect Gemini to Spotify to play music and discover playlists, as well as manage device settings, send messages and make calls.
Upcoming updates will enable Gemini to control smart home devices and provide detailed location information on Google Maps.
And if you’re using one of the latest Google Pixel phones, there are 20 additional features you can look forward to.
