Google Maps on Wear OS smartwatches allows users to access offline maps, search for destinations using voice commands, and view their location on the map with a tap. This feature enables users to navigate even without cell phone service.

Source: https://blog.google/

The September 2024 Google System Update primarily details new features in Play services, Play Store, and Play system update across Android phones, tablets, Wear OS, Google/Android TV, Auto, and PC. The update includes bug fixes for Developer Services, new instructions for Quick Share, and a new flow when receiving files. The Google Play services v24.34 update was released on September 2, 2024.

Source: https://9to5mac.com/

Google has added body temperature support to the Pixel Thermometer app in the US, and is set to expand it to Europe. The app allows users to connect Fitbit and log their temperature, with a 4-second process to take a measurement. The app also includes a temperature guide and the option to save measurements to a recent results page.

Source: https://9to5google.com/

Google has committed to providing three years of software updates for the Pixel Watch 3, with the device guaranteed to receive updates until at least October 2027. This is consistent with the update policy for the original Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2. The Pixel Watch 3 is launching a month early, with the updates set to continue until October 2027.

Source: https://9to5google.com/

Google has been gradually phasing out the Nest app since its purchase of Nest in 2014. The company launched a revamped lineup of cameras and doorbells in 2021, which no longer used the Nest app. The Nest app is now nearly complete, with its functions being taken over by the Google Home app.

Source: https://9to5google.com/

Google Translate is now supporting the outer display on select foldables, including the Pixel Fold and Galaxy Z Fold 6, for Conversation Mode. This feature allows users to use the inner and outer displays simultaneously, with the outer screen showing one language and the inner display showing the user's language. The native Translate app will have a dedicated button for this function, making it more accessible.

Source: https://9to5google.com/

Google is introducing instant snapshots for Compute Engine, a cost-effective and fast recovery solution that provides near-instantaneous, high-frequency, point-in-time snapshots, allowing for a predictable rollback time and more efficient use of maintenance windows.

Source: https://cloud.google.com/blog/

Google is rolling out a Gmail Q&A feature on Android, which brings the Gemini side panel from desktop web to mobile devices. The feature allows users to ask questions about their inbox, such as finding specific emails or summarizing messages about a topic. The search bar in Gmail shrinks to make room for the Gemini panel, which can be expanded to take up the entire screen.

Source: https://9to5google.com/

Google has rolled out an update to Circle to Search, allowing users to quickly crop and shape their highlighted content. The feature, announced at Made by Google 2024, enables users to share their circled content with others. The share option brings up Android's system sheet, allowing users to upload to Google Photos or save to Google Keep.

Source: https://9to5mac.com/

YouTube has added QR codes as a new way to share channels. To access the QR code, users can go to the You tab on Android or iOS and scroll to the carousel underneath their handle, where they can select 'Share channel' and then 'QR code'. The QR code features the channel logo and handle, and users can screenshot or save it to their camera roll.

Source: https://9to5google.com/