Google just shared some new features coming to Android this month. There are updates ranging from Gboard and emoji, to a new accessibility feature. Google Meet, Wear OS, and Nearby Share are also getting some attention.
Gboard is getting a new “emojify” feature that lets you quickly add emojis to a message after typing it. You can try it now on GBoard beta.
Emoji Kitchen lets you merge emojis to create new ones, and Android has added a ton of new mashups, including fall-themed ones.
Google Meet gets a new live sharing feature that lets you watch and play together during video calls. You can now add specific participants to a Google Meet call you choose. These are coming out now.
Sharing nearby will receive a “in the coming weeks” activation option. This will allow users to send content to nearby devices on your Google account without a message, even if the screen is off. Google Apps will also have larger widgets optimized for Android tablets.
There are two new accessibility features on Android for the deaf or visually impaired. One is called Custom Sound Notifications, and when enabled it hears specific sounds and notifies the user via vibration, flashing light, or a Wear OS notification. It will recognize things like running water, babies crying, dogs barking, a smoke alarm ringing, or you can teach it a sound. Google TV now offers a curated collection of featured movies with audio for the blind or visually impaired.
Finally, Wear OS gets new Bitmoji watch faces, and there’s a new Google Keep tile that makes it easier to quickly dictate a note or look at other notes.
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