Google is adding phone-to-watch unlock, custom widgets and shorter alert summaries to recent Pixel Watches, with most features arriving in the next few weeks.
Google is adding a batch of features to recent Pixel Watches. One lets your phone unlock the watch, so you skip typing a PIN or pattern on a tiny screen. Only step-by-step workouts arrive today. The other four are expected in the next few weeks.
For unlock, you first unlock your phone. A prompt reading "Unlocking your watch" then appears at the top of the screen, with a Cancel button. A short-range wireless technology called UWB plays a role.
The summaries turn long piles of alerts and multi-message chats into short overviews. Gemini Call Screen filters incoming calls on demand and generates key details in US English.
For the workout feature, the watch needs Wear OS 7 or newer and Google Health 4.12 or newer. The Android phone needs version 5.12 or newer. Pricing and exact release dates for the four upcoming features were not given.
If you own a Pixel Watch 3 or newer, update the apps now for workouts, and expect phone unlock and alert summaries within weeks.
Rambler, a voice typing feature in Google's Gboard keyboard, is no longer limited to the Pixel 11. Pixel 10 owners can now use it to dictate messages.
Read more: Google's new voice typing feature now works on Pixel 10 phonesGoogle is bringing its Gemini Intelligence assistant tools to the Pixel 10 line and a new Motorola phone, with new features that handle errands and settings.
Read more: Google's phone assistant upgrade reaches more Android phonesGoogle's November Pixel Drop brings new AI tools and a glowing alert for messages, but the biggest features are limited to Pixel 10 and Pixel 11 phones.
Read more: Google's November Pixel update adds AI tools, but mostly for newest phones
