Google has started rolling out its September Pixel Drop, bringing improvements to VIP contacts, additional scam protection, wider availability for Pause Point, and new Harry Potter-themed content.
The update is available for Pixel phones from the Pixel 6 series onward, although the Pixel Tablet is excluded.
Google is releasing the update in stages, meaning some devices, particularly carrier models, may receive it over the coming weeks instead of immediately. Some features also depend on the user’s region and language.
VIP Contacts Get Quick Actions
Google has upgraded the VIP contacts widget with new shortcuts for calling or messaging important contacts with a single tap.
The widget now also displays badges for missed calls and messages.
A floating menu at the bottom makes it easier to switch between different VIP contacts.
Gboard Can Now Warn About Scams
Google is expanding scam protection directly into Gboard.
If a user begins replying to a suspicious message, Gboard can display a “Likely scam” warning above the keyboard.
Scam Detection is also available for notifications, where suspicious messages can receive the same warning before users even open them.
Google says the detection runs on-device, keeping conversations private. The feature currently supports six languages: Arabic, French, German, Portuguese, Japanese and Spanish.
Scam Detection originally launched only in the United States but is now expanding to Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, Singapore and the United Kingdom.
Pause Point Comes to Older Pixel Phones
Google introduced Pause Point with the Pixel 11 series, but the feature is now expanding to Pixel phones going back to the Pixel 6 lineup.
Pause Point is designed to reduce unnecessary app usage by adding another step before opening selected distracting apps.
For example, if a user tries to open Facebook, the phone provides an additional prompt that gives them a moment to reconsider.
Harry Potter Themes and Free Audible Trial
Google is also marking the release of Audible’s Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions with new Harry Potter Audiobook Packs.
The packs change Pixel wallpapers and icons while also adding sounds taken from the audiobooks.
Eligible Pixel owners can also receive a free two-month Audible trial to listen to the new releases.
The Audible offer is available in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, India, Japan, and Australia until January 14.
The Harry Potter themes will remain available until December 31.
Pixel Watch Also Gets an Update
Google has also released updates for the Pixel Watch.
The update improves Raise to Talk with a new gesture model and expands app support for one-handed gestures.
It also includes several bug fixes.
The September Pixel Drop is rolling out to all eligible Pixel phones from the Pixel 6 series onward, but individual feature availability can vary depending on the device, country, and language.
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