Google announced the developer preview of Android 12 not long ago, and now it brings a series of updates to Pixel phones. Specifically, the recording App brings voice-to-text functions through machine learning capabilities. On this basis, it provides new functions for web page editing and sharing. Users can visit recorder.google.com to edit content or share with non-Pixel users. This feature will also make it easier for users with impaired hearing to use.
The smart writing tools of Gmail and Docs also get an upgrade on Android 12. Through Google’s input method tool Gboard, smart writing tools can also be applied to messaging, Google Chat, WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack, LINE, and other instant messaging applications. They also provide suggestions through machine learning and help users quickly enter text content.
In addition, this update also mentions the underwater shooting function of the Pixel camera. Google recommends using it with a waterproof protective case. Users can turn on night scenes, portraits, and other functions underwater for shooting. Google’s official recommendation is the Kraken mobile phone case. Well, this accessory is not cheap in any way, it costs a whopping $325.
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Google Photos gives new quality warning
With the Google Drive High Quality compressed mode, users can upload an infinite number of photos to Google Drive. The company has been encouraging users to make use of this storage platform for quite some time. Google even promises that the High Quality storage offers “near-identical visual quality” as the original image. With this storage, users do not have to keep images on their phones. They can always download these images at any time they desire.
However, as time went on, the pressure on Google became enormous. After Google Drive hit 4 trillion images of multiple sizes each, it made some changes to the rules. The number of images to be uploaded was no longer infinite. Google had to charge users who exceed the 15GB limit from June 1st, 2021.
With the new financially beneficial rules in place for Google, its preference for image storage seems to be changing. The company no longer prefers the High Quality storage facility and there is now a warning for users. According to Google, users could risk damaging their photos if they don’t switch from High Quality to Original Quality uploads. This information is contained in one of its advertisement emails sent to Google Photo users. The company is currently advertising its new premium photo editing features.
The email contains a sample image of an Original Image as well as a “High Quality compression” image. Google says that “Original quality photos preserve the most detail and let you zoom in, crop and print photos with less pixelation”. It’s an unfortunate situation for Google Photos users. To say the least, millions of Android users will be affected.