With the release of each new Pixel device, Google continues to introduce innovative features that set its phones apart from the competition. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are no exception, boasting some lesser-known functionalities that can enhance your overall user experience. Whether you're a new Pixel owner or haven't fully explored your device yet, here are some noteworthy features that you might not have noticed right away.
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While face unlock is a common feature on Android phones, the Pixel 8 takes it to the next level. Google claims that the Pixel 8's face unlock meets the criteria for the "highest Android biometric class," making it secure enough for tasks beyond just unlocking the phone. You can use face unlock to authorize payments, access your password manager, and more. This seamless authentication method is especially convenient when switching from another Android device.
To enable Assistant voice typing, navigate to Settings > System > Keyboard > On-screen keyboard > Gboard > Voice typing. Once enabled, you can access voice typing by tapping the microphone button in Gboard's toolbar. Keep in mind that this feature currently supports languages such as English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish.
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1. Advanced Face Unlock
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To set up face unlock on your Pixel 8, go to Settings > Security and privacy > Device unlock > Fingerprint and Face Unlock. The Pixel 8's face unlock feature, powered by machine learning and AI algorithms, offers a secure and efficient way to verify your identity.
By customizing your lock screen, you can give your Pixel 8 a unique look that reflects your personal style. Although iPhone offers more versatile lock screen customization options, such as adding widgets, Google's implementation still provides a level of personalization.
2. Lock Screen Customization
The Pixel 8 allows you to personalize your lock screen with different wallpapers, clock themes, and shortcut tweaks. To access these customization options, long-press on the lock screen or go to Settings > Wallpaper and style > Lock screen tab. While lock screen customization is not exclusive to Pixel phones, the Pixel 8's implementation aligns with Google's intended user experience.By customizing your lock screen, you can give your Pixel 8 a unique look that reflects your personal style. Although iPhone offers more versatile lock screen customization options, such as adding widgets, Google's implementation still provides a level of personalization.
3. AI-Powered Camera Features
The Pixel 8 is widely known for its exceptional camera that captures stunning photos. With its AI-powered features, your photography experience is bound to be enhanced. One of its standout features is Best Take, which enables you to capture multiple group shots and later swap faces, ensuring that everyone looks their best. Additionally, the Magic Editor uses generative AI to reframe your picture after it has been taken, providing you with flexibility in post-processing and allowing you to create the perfect shot.
The Pixel 6 has introduced a new feature called Magic Eraser that effectively reduces unwanted background noise in recorded videos. This feature is a game-changer for those who frequently record videos in noisy environments, as it allows for clearer and more focused audio. Moreover, in December 2023, Google launched Video Boost for Pixel 8 Pro users, which significantly enhances the video recording capabilities of the device. This powerful feature improves color accuracy, lighting, and stabilization, resulting in stunning and high-quality videos that are sure to impress.
4. Custom AI Wallpapers
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With the Pixel 8, you can now create personalized and unique wallpapers using the power of generative AI. To create an AI wallpaper, simply long-press on any empty area of your home screen, select Wallpaper and style, tap on More wallpapers, and choose AI wallpaper under the "Create a wallpaper" section. Once you've selected AI wallpaper, you'll have the option to choose from a variety of pre-defined themes, enter specific keywords, and generate an AI-based wallpaper that is tailored to your preferences. This feature is a great way to add a personal touch to your phone and showcase your creativity.
While the customization options are limited to pre-defined themes, the AI-powered wallpaper creation process adds a creative touch to your Pixel 8's home screen. Swipe through multiple creations and choose the one that suits your style.
While the customization options are limited to pre-defined themes, the AI-powered wallpaper creation process adds a creative touch to your Pixel 8's home screen. Swipe through multiple creations and choose the one that suits your style.
5. Drag and Drop Content Between Apps
With the introduction of Android 14, users can now enjoy the convenience of native support for dragging and dropping text and images between different apps. Although this feature is only available for certain content types, it is a useful tool for people who frequently review documents and emails on their mobile devices. To use it, simply long-press on the highlighted text or image, move it to the desired app, and drop it into the text box. However, it's worth noting that this feature may not be compatible with all apps, and there may be some limitations when it comes to dragging and dropping images.6. Assistant Voice Typing
Voice typing has become a common feature on Android phones, but the Pixel 8 and some older Pixel models have taken it to the next level with their Assistant voice typing. This feature allows for voice-to-text conversion to be processed on the device itself, which means that an active internet connection is no longer needed during the process. The result is a nearly real-time conversion that significantly enhances the overall typing experience. Additionally, Assistant voice typing supports several commands such as "send," "undo," and "delete," making it an incredibly convenient hands-free option.
To enable Assistant voice typing, navigate to Settings > System > Keyboard > On-screen keyboard > Gboard > Voice typing. Once enabled, you can access voice typing by tapping the microphone button in Gboard's toolbar. Keep in mind that this feature currently supports languages such as English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish.
To sum up, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro have an impressive set of hardware and software features that distinguish them from other Android devices. Delving into the often-overlooked features of these devices can greatly enrich your user experience.
- Pixel 8 features
- Google Pixel tips
- Android device tricks
- Pixel 8 customization
- Voice typing on Pixel
- Pixel 8 AI wallpapers
- Face unlock security
- Camera features on Pixel 8
- Lock screen customization
- Google Assistant tips
- Pixel 8 hidden functions
- AI-powered photography
- Android 14 gestures
- Drag and drop on Pixel
- Pixel 8 user experience