This week resembled a mini-Google I/O event.

ByCloudBrain Team
This week resembled a mini-Google I/O event.

Recent Google Updates: A Summary

This past week has been incredibly busy for Google, especially with many new announcements that are almost on the scale of what we might see at Google I/O, which is just a few weeks away.

Key Updates from Google

Here are some of the highlights, organized alphabetically:

Android Updates

  • Android 15 QPR2: This release brings exciting new features, including Modes and a Notification Cooldown function, enhancing the user experience.
  • Android Auto: It now supports full games, making it easier for users to enjoy gaming on the go.
  • Android Widgets: Google recently hosted a “Spotlight Week” focused on widgets. It was announced that smartphones with the upcoming Android 16 QPR1 will soon allow lockscreen widgets, and developers are exploring stackable widgets. Discovering high-quality widgets on the Play Store is also a key focus.
  • Find My Device: This feature now combines device locating with sharing your friends’ locations. A name change might be in order since “Find My” is already in use by Apple.
  • Gboard: A new voice toolbar has been introduced for mobile phones, and testing is underway for circle and pill-shaped keys on the keyboard.

Gemini App Updates

  • Gemini App: The Gemini iPhone app has added lockscreen widgets, a new Control Center, along with useful shortcuts, including an Action Button.
  • Live Features: Google has rolled out Astra-powered video and screen sharing for Gemini Live on Android. This will be available to Advanced subscribers starting this month, with a wider launch expected in May.
  • Gemini Overlay: Users can now discuss images, files, and YouTube videos in real-time on Pixel devices 6 and up.
  • Product Updates: There have been improvements in understanding and multilingual conversations thanks to Gemini 2.0 Flash and the Astra product team moving under Gemini to speed up development.

New Google Services and Features

  • Google Calendar: A new Gemini side panel will soon be available.
  • Google Clock: Pixel phones will get a new Timer Starter widget.
  • Google Fi: With the upcoming iOS 18.4, RCS support will be added.
  • Google Maps: Android 16 will introduce live updates for a smoother navigation experience.
  • Google Messages and Phone: A new Scam Detection feature is being introduced to help users avoid unwanted calls and messages.
  • Google Photos: Updates will allow support for screenshots and new features for Partner Sharing.
  • Google Search: AI Mode is being tested for premium Google One users, aimed at enhancing search capabilities for power users.

Innovations in Pixel Devices

Google’s Pixel lineup has some noteworthy achievements:

Pixel 9 Pro and Updates

  • The Pixel 9 Pro has received the “Smartphone of the Year” award at MWC 2025, while Gemini was recognized for “Breakthrough Device Innovation.”
  • The new Pixel Camera 9.8 is starting its rollout, providing users with enhanced photography features.
  • Additionally, a new Pixel Feature Drop includes updates for Satellite SOS expansion and more capabilities related to Pixel Studio.
  • Pixel Watch: An update for the Pixel Watch will bring in improved step tracking, menstrual health tracking, and a Loss of Pulse Detection feature.
  • Wear OS 5.1 is now coming to Pixel Watch 2 and 3, introducing new features, including a Global Always-On Display (AOD) experience.

YouTube Updates

YouTube Premium Lite

  • A new service, YouTube Premium Lite, will be available. This offers access to ad-free YouTube, excluding YouTube Music, providing an affordable option for users who only want video content.

There is much happening at Google as they continue to innovate and improve their services across various platforms. These updates reflect the company’s commitment to enhancing user experiences and leveraging advanced technology in everyday devices.

Also Read