Control Spotify with Gemini and more: Google brings many new features to Android and Pixel devices

Every year, Google brings new features to Android devices just before Christmas. Many of the features are not tied to the new Android version 15, but can also be used on older devices.

There is also a first major Android 15 update for Pixel devices from Pixel 6 and newer. The Pixel Watch 3 and the tablet also receive new features.

Android feature drop: Gemini with Spotify support and more

The December update from Google expands the range of functions of the new assistant Gemini. With the Spotify extension you can play music from Spotify using voice commands. It is curious that this was already possible with the Google Assistant. At the start, Gemini lacked basic functions like these, which are now being gradually added in order to achieve functional equality between Gemini and the Google Assistant.

Gemini also gets access to the so-called "Utilities extension". This allows the chatbot to perform more actions for you. These include making calls, sending emails and changing phone settings.

Gemini will also provide more detailed and helpful image descriptions in the Lookout app. All you have to do is take, upload or open a photo in the app. The caption will then be read to you in a natural-sounding voice, according to Google. The feature is currently only available in English worldwide.

Other new Android features: Better document scans and new stickers

With the update, Google also promises that scanned files stored in Google Drive will be optimized. In addition, images and videos can now be easily shared via Quick Share (formerly Nearby Share) using a QR code.

Also new are sticker combinations that you can create in the Emoji Kitchen in Google's keyboard app Gboard. Google highlights the new pizza emoji, but other emoji mashups can also be created.

Android 15 QPR1: What's new for Pixel devices

Google also has all sorts of new features especially for Pixel smartphones, watches and tablets. With the update to Android 15 QPR1, the manufacturer is sharpening the recently introduced anti-theft protection:

When you are in a new location, the "identity verification" in the beta version now requires authentication with a face or fingerprint before changes can be made to sensitive settings on the smartphone.

Google's free VPN service can now also be used on the Pixel tablet (test), so that sensitive data remains encrypted even in a public Wi-Fi network. On the Pixel tablet, the most important controls can also be accessed by swiping to the right on the tablet's lock screen. This way, widgets for operating smart home devices, timers, music and more can be reached more quickly.

In addition, the Now Playing music recognition feature will receive a cover display. The recorder app will also receive an update that will automatically reduce background noise and distractions to make recordings easier to understand. To do this, the "Crystal Clear Voice" feature must be activated in the app.

Pixel Watch 3 gets pulse loss detection

The Pixel Watch 3 is getting a new feature: According to Google, pulse loss detection is now available in Germany and Portugal. With pulse loss detection, the watch can detect when a person's heart suddenly stops beating, for example due to cardiac arrest, poisoning or respiratory arrest. If the user does not respond to the warning, the smartwatch calls the emergency services.

Also new in Germany is fall detection for all Pixel Watch models as well as car accident detection for Pixel smartphones and the Pixel Watch 2 and 3.

The new functions will be gradually made available on all compatible devices. Google has provided an overview of which features will be available on which Pixel device. Smartphones from other manufacturers receive most of the functions via Google Play services - these do not require an Android update.