Google I/O 2021 just launched on Tuesday. There are quite exciting updates regarding the event. Many updates were unleashed, various features were introduced, etc. Here’s a brief recap for you.
Android Beta 12
Google officially dropped the Android 12 Beta version on Tuesday. As usual, Pixel users are the first ones to try out the latest software. Pixel 5, Pixel 4/4a, and Pixel 3/3a are already enrolled in the Beta program. Several flagship phones from partner OEMs are also joining the Android 12 Beta party. Following devices are Android 12 Beta 1 eligible:
- ASUS Zenfone 8
- Google (Pixel 3/3 XL, Pixel 3a/3a XL, Pixel 4/4 XL, Pixel 4a/4a 5G, Pixel 5)
- One Plus 9 and One Plus 9 Pro
- Realme GT
- Tecno Camon 17
- TCL 20 Pro 5G
- Vivo iQOO 7 Legend
- Xiaomi Mi 11, Mi 11 Ultra, Mi 11i, Mi 11 X Pro
- ZTE Axon 30 Ultra
Google Material You
Material You, the new Google design language was also showcased at the event. This is the latest redesign after the current Material Design which is now a bit old. Material You colorful, refreshing, and bold. Its main focus is on offering users endless customization through its theming capacity. We will soon witness Material You in almost all the Google products.
Google Finally Adopts Wear OS
After deserting Wear OS for many years, Google has finally adopted it. Google is now serious regarding its smartwatch OS. The company announced that it will collaborate with the Korean electronics brand, Samsung. Wear OS will also have Material You in it. It will also inherit some popular Fitbit features. Wear OS will also have a YouTube music app in it. Users can download music and listen to it anytime they want.
The New Language Model: LaMDA
This was one of the fascinating reveals at Google I/O. LaMDA is a conversational language model built on Google’s ‘Transformer’. The transformer is Google’s newer network architecture. It is unlike other language models and is not restricted to answer only queries. LaMDA can indulge in free-flowing conversations on any topic. It is still in the development phase currently.
Project Starline: The Future of Video Calls
This feature is the future of video conferencing. Video calls are extremely common these days. We have platforms like WhatsApp, Zoom, Meet, etc. to connect with people. But we have this desire in our heart to see the person in real. Project Starline, a Google initiative will make video conferencing feel real. It will use 3D imaging and you’ll feel that the person is next to you. Watch here.
New Features Added to Google Maps
Three new features are added to Google Maps.
- Eco-friendly routes will help you find roads that lead to less fuel consumption.
- The Safer route will help you find the safest way to reach your destination. With AI technology, it will trace out traffic, weather, and other safety factors.
- Live-view will provide augmented reality-based navigation. It is dynamic and easy to access.
