Google has unveiled a series of new features for Android and Wear OS devices, enhancing accessibility, browsing, and user experience.
The tech giant announced these updates on Tuesday, with a total of five new features set to roll out to supported devices over the next two weeks. These updates include significant improvements to existing tools like TalkBack and the introduction of new capabilities in Google Chrome, Google Maps, and the Android Earthquake Alerts System.
TalkBack, Android’s screen reader designed for users with visual impairments, is receiving a major upgrade. Now powered by Google’s in-house AI model, Gemini, TalkBack will offer more detailed audio descriptions of digital images, photos in galleries, and pictures shared in text messages or social media posts. This enhancement is aimed at providing better accessibility for users who are blind or have poor vision.
Google confirmed the addition of a music search feature to the Circle to Search tool. This feature allows users to identify songs and music playing on their device or nearby. With a simple tap on the music button, users can discover the track name, artist, and even open a corresponding YouTube video.
Android users will soon be able to listen to articles and web pages directly in Google Chrome. The new text-to-speech feature offers options to adjust listening speed, voice type, and language, making it easier for users to consume content without needing to read it.
Google’s Android Earthquake Alerts System, initially rolled out in beta to a select group of users, is now being expanded across the United States. This system uses crowd-sourced detection technology to send real-time earthquake alerts to users. However, it remains unavailable to users outside the US.
Wear OS devices are also getting a significant update with the introduction of offline Google Maps. Users with compatible smartwatches will be able to download maps and access them without needing their smartphone. Additionally, when online, users can search for destinations using voice commands and view their current location with a single tap on the watch face.
These new features are available to all supported Android and Wear OS devices, not just Pixel users, as part of Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and accessibility.