by Android devices are getting new features as part of a December update courtesy of Google. On the surface, the changes appear to be completely random, but that’s because each one is aimed at a specific type of user.
For example, Google adds a new one reading mode app (opens in new tab) to help the visually impaired read text on their phones. It works by integrating with your phone’s quick settings and can be activated by selecting a new book tab that shows up in other apps. The page then turns into a more readable form with colored text on a black background for high contrast. Customization options are available, according to the announcement (opens in new tab), where you can change the color of the text, its font size and contrast. Reading mode also has a text-to-speech option for users who struggle the most or just want to relax and listen. An in-app slider lets you adjust the reading speed.
The other great feature is the ability to share yours digital car key (opens in new tab) but only between Pixel devices and iPhones. Compatible keys are sent via a phone’s digital wallet app (just make sure you can trust the other person). Google plans to bring digital key support to “select phones with [Android 12] and up,” but didn’t give an exact date other than “soon.”
That being said, everything else coming to Android phones is a lot smaller. If you go down the list, you have a new YouTube search widget that you can use to search videos right on the home screen. Google Photos collage editor (opens in new tab) has two new artistic designs: a comic style by couple DABSMYLA with another by watercolor artist Yao Cheng Design. Finally, streaming content from the Google TV app to a compatible display can now be done with a single tap.
Wear OS changes
Wear OS has some improvements ahead of it. New tiles will be added to tell you when you can watch either sunrise or sunset on a given day and give you quick access to your favorite contacts. Select workouts in the Adidas app can be accessed via Google Assistant voice commands starting December 5th. Apart from that, it is not known exactly when the other features will be introduced. We asked Google if they could give us a specific date, but at the time of writing, there was nothing but radio silence. We’ll update this story when we get feedback.
Be sure to check out the recently updated versions of TechRadar best android smartwatch list if you are thinking of buying a last minute Christmas present. Also, we heard that through the rumor mill several Google Workspace apps might find their way to WatchOS. If this comes true, it will give Android smartwatches a productivity boost.
