Google Pixel smartphones are well renowned for their sleek design, powerful performance, and innovative features. The best thing about Pixel is that they are focused on consistently ranking among the top players in the smartphone market. All credit goes to their focus on user experience and seamless integration with Google Services.
With such consistency, Google has just released the March 2024 Feature Drop, which means a wave of software updates. In this update, developers are trying to elevate Pixel users’ experiences. This is because the recent feature drop was equipped with a wave of enhancements focused on boosting productivity and fitness features. So, let’s discuss what’s there.
What’s new in the Google Pixel March 2024 feature drop?
Pixel users got a plethora of new features alongside the March 2024 security update. Additionally, this time, developers figured out previously reported bugs and fixed them with this new update. To give a rough overview, the March 2024 Update brings multiple features in varied categories. These categories include enhanced user experience, fitness and wellness, security, and system optimization. So to have a clear picture of what features are included in these categories, let’s have a look at each feature.
Enhanced user experience
In this section, Google tries to elevate the user experience that was previously downgraded. Here, they tried to add a few tweaks and remove things that leveled down the user experience. It includes three major features: call screen improvement, faster Bluetooth pairing, and a Pixel Tablet productivity boost.
Call Screen Improvement: Now Pixel has improved the detection of silent callers for more effective call screening. Additionally, there are new options for reporting spam calls directly through the call screen.
Faster Bluetooth Pairing: With the new update, Pixel devices simplify the pairing process for previously connected headphones and Bluetooth accessories. I mean, here the pairing process got quite faster than before.
Gboard Voice Typing: Google Pixel Tablets have a new productivity tool called Gboard Voice Typing so that they can do hands-free text input. With this, users will find improved multitasking capabilities for a more desktop-like experience.
Fitness and Wellness Features
Google has Pixel watches that are merely designed to focus on fitness. Alongside adding improvements to the phone, they introduced some notable features to the Pixel Watch. These include auto-workout detection, a redesigned workout user interface, and my favorite auto-start and stop workouts. So, let’s have a look at each of them.
Auto Workout Detection: The Pixel Watch 1st Generation has a feature that automatically detects workouts like running, walking, cycling, and swimming, eliminating the need for manual activation.
Redesigned Workout UI: The Pixel Watch has a new user interface with larger text and brighter colors. So that it becomes easier for users to view workout stats like pace, heart rate, and many more.
Auto-Start and Stop Workout: This feature is almost similar to the previous one, but of course, the intent is different here. Alongside other additions, the new March 2024 model added a feature to the Pixel Watch 1st Generation to automatically start and stop workouts based on detected activity.
Security and System Optimisation
Including the enhancement features, a proper security system is needed. It was noted that Google improved its security and system. Here, they addressed critical security weaknesses for Pixel devices that improved battery life and resolved the various bugs previously reported by users.
Devices Eligible for the Pixel March 2024 Feature Drop
From the above feature discussion, you might want to know which Pixel devices will get the March 2024 security update. After all, this update is rolling out to compatible Pixel devices over the next few weeks. However, as per the official details, I found a list of Pixel devices that will surely get these feature drops, as listed below.
- Pixel 5a
- Pixel 6 and 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7 and 7 Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Watch (1st Gen)
- Pixel tablet
At present, these are the compatible devices to showcase the March 2024 update. However, it would be possible that some more devices would come under the scope of getting the above-mentioned features dropped.
Downloading and Installing the Google Pixel March 2024 Feature Drop
Look, there is no definite date for rolling out the March 2024 update. However, the above-listed compatible devices will gradually see this feature drop.
Now the point comes: how do I download or upgrade to such an update? By the way, make sure before installing the update you have stable Internet connectivity and have already done a backup of your important data. So let’s understand how to get such an update with the below steps.
- Open the Settings app on your Pixel device.
- Scroll down, tap on System, and tap on System Update.
- Following this, your system itself will showcase your March 2024 update, if available.
- Now tap on download and install.
- As a result, your device will download the update.
- Once it is done, tap Restart Now to install the update.
- That’s it. In a few moments, you will enter the Pixel March 2024 Update.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, the Pixel March 2024 Feature Drop delivers a range of improvements, from smarter call screening to a fitness-focused Pixel Watch upgrade. Security patches and system optimizations keep your Pixel running smoothly. With exciting rumors about future developments, the best of Pixel is yet to come! Download the update today and share your experience in the comments below. Let’s explore the Pixel’s potential together!
Frequently asked questions
Q1. When will I receive the Pixel March 2024 feature drop?
Ans. At present, the update is rolling out in phases over the next few weeks. You can manually check for updates in your Pixel settings by following the steps mentioned in this guide.
Q2. Is my Pixel device compatible with the March 2024 feature drop?
Ans. The update is compatible with Pixel devices from Pixel 5a onwards, including the Pixel Fold and Pixel Watch (1st Gen). You can find a complete list of compatible devices under the heading “Devices Eligible for the Pixel March 2024 Feature Drop” in this article.
Q3. Do I need to back up my data before installing the update?
Ans. While not mandatory, it’s always recommended to back up your data before installing any major software updates. You can back up your data to Google Drive or another preferred cloud storage service.
Q4. What if I encounter issues during the update process?
Ans. If you face any problems downloading or installing the update, you can visit the Google Pixel Help Centre for troubleshooting tips.