Mobile World Congress (MWC) used to be really exciting a few years ago, as almost all smartphone brands used to reveal their flagship phones for the year at the expo. The event has become subdued now, but there are still some exciting announcements coming from MWC. Google has revealed some new features for Android-based phones and wearables.
Google introduces nine new features for the Android ecosystem
Android Auto
At the ongoing MWC 2024 expo, Google unveiled new features to improve the Android ecosystem. With the help of AI, Google will summarize messages (and group chats) in Android Auto mode to reduce distractions while driving. So, you can tap once to reply to relevant messages, share ETA, or even start a call.
Accessibility
For improved accessibility, Google has introduced a way to listen to AI-generated captions for online images, photos, and pictures received in messages. This should greatly improve the experience of using Android devices for users with low vision or other vision impairments. Google Lens in Google Maps is getting enhanced screen reader support, which makes it easier to understand locations and places of interest around you. You can now pinpoint your phone's camera at your surroundings, and TalkBack will read the place's name, its business hours, review ratings, and more.
Gemini In Google Messages
A few weeks ago, Google introduced Gemini, its next-generation AI-powered digital chatbot and voice assistant. Back then, Gemini could connect with Google Flight, Google Hotels, Google Maps, Google Docs/Workplace, and YouTube to bring information from your account. Now, Gemini also works inside Google Messages, helping you brainstorm ideas, draft messages, and plan events.
Google Docs
Google Docs is getting support for handwritten annotations through the Markup feature. On your Android phone or tablet, you can use a stylus or just your finger to draw annotations on documents. You can also choose from several markup tools, like different highlighters, pens, and colors, to add your feedback.
Spotify Cast Support In Volume Control On Android
Android is also finally getting Spotify Connect support in the native media switcher. It means you can control volume and playback controls on your phone's volume control center when you're playing media on a Google Cast-compatible device (such as a Google TV) via Spotify.
Wear OS
On Wear OS-based smartwatches, like the Galaxy Watch 4 (or newer), the Google Wallet app will be able to display loyalty/membership cards, passes, tickets, and more. Earlier, this feature was absent on Wear OS devices, and users had to take out their phones from their pockets to get things done.
Google Maps will display more information at a glance on Wear OS devices. While commuting, you can see the bus, ferry, or train number on your wrist. Departure times, compass-guided navigation, and even mirror directions from your phone to your smartwatch. All these features will be available on Galaxy smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches in the coming weeks or months.
Health Connect
With Health Connect, co-developed by Google and Samsung, the Fitbit app can take information from various apps, devices, and sources to display a more complete picture of your health. It currently supports importing data from AllTrails, MyFitnessPal, and Oura Ring.
In the Fitbit app, the You tab shows all your data in one place. In the Today tab, you can see all your activities and health metrics from Health Connect-compatible apps.
