10 of the absolute best features of Google Pixel devices

Updated

How about 10 of the absolute best features instead?

Google are renowned for their epic Pixel devices, particularly for their awesome camera technology.

However, they boast a number of features that aren’t quite as front and centre, and we don’t want you to neglect them.

Pixel mobiles are unique in hosting a bunch of tricks that aren’t part of Android or available on other devices.

To celebrate the launch of the most recent Google Pixel 6a, we thought we’d explore 10 things that make Pixel perfect.

1) Keeping storage smart.

We’re not talking storage with a uni degree, we’re talking storage that works around your needs so you can make the most out of it.

Smart Storage partners up with Google Photos to remove copies of backed up media after a certain time frame.

If you take a look at your storage on your mobile, more often than not it’s photos and videos that tend to suck up all the space.

This is when the Cloud comes into play. When you’ve synced all of your photos to the cloud, there’s no need to keep local copies – nobody likes a hoarder.

To activate Smart Storage, follow these steps:

1) Head to System Settings on your Pixel.

2) Select Storage.

3) Select Smart Storage.

4) Select whether you want your photos to be removed at 30, 60 or 90 days old.

This way you’re saving a whole lot of room – without having to fork out for extra storage or doing anything for yourself.

2) Keep safe while driving.

Looking at your mobile while driving is ridiculously dangerous – but we don’t have to tell you that.

You might be tempted to glance at it and check who has sent you a text or to change song but Driving Mode on your Pixel will ensure you stay safe and sound.

Driving Mode detects when you’re in a moving vehicle and will automatically put your mobile in Do Not Disturb mode.

Or, if your car has Android Auto, it’ll open that up and let you access bits of your mobile through your car.

It works by keeping incoming messages away from drawing your attention and tempting you while you’re out cruising.

1) Head to System Settings.

2) Select Connection Preferences.

3) Tap Driving Mode.

We all love a good car journey and this way you’re staying safe and sound.

3) Get to grips with Google Lens.

We couldn’t go through this list without mentioning one camera related feature. Google Lens has a lot of handy tricks that make using your Pixel easy.

You can use Lens to copy text from a letter in front of you to scan it in an email, to scan QR codes, snapshot addresses from business cards or leaflets and so much more.

It can be downloaded on a number of devices, but you Pixel users get to access the lens from your camera.

Someone using the Google Pixel mobile to take a photo of a dog. — Google Lens will get you the perfect shot.

1) Double press your power button to open up the camera.

2) Aim your mobile at what you want to process.

3) Await for Lens to provide a pop up.

If you are wanting to focus on specific text, you can hold your finger down on the text on your image. This will allow you to copy it, search for it and other bits and bobs too.

4) Flip it fast.

Another camera feature for you Pixel lovers. There are a number of impressive camera hacks that you can take advantage of, and this is one of the best.

Have you ever experienced one of those moments that happens so fast, you don’t get a chance to catch it on camera?

You’re in luck. Your Pixel has a built-in fast-flipping gesture that ensures you don’t miss a single moment of the action.

1) Open your camera.

2) Twist your wrist twice.

This will flip your camera round and allow you to snap photos with either the front camera or the back in a flash.

5) Quick clips are made possible.

We’ve spoken about those moments that you need to capture a snap of quickly, but what about when you need to get them on video.

A classic example is when someone slips or trips – which let’s admit, is always funny. Or when one of your little ones finally plucks up the courage to jump in the sea on your family holiday.

Sometimes things just happen so fast and then the moments gone – but not with your Pixel mobile. Pixels have a cool feature that lets you catch videos in a flash without having to change things around.

You’ll even be able to snapshot photos from your video too – giving you the best of both worlds.

1) Open your camera.

2) Press and hold the shutter button.

3) Your mobile will immediately start recording.

Once your video is recorded, tap the preview that appears in the camera app. If you locate it in Google photos, you can swipe up on the screen to view all available still shots.

6) Digital car key.

The most recent Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro bring a feature so futuristic; you might not even believe it exists.

Technology is slowly transporting us to a world where all we need is our mobile phone and the latest additions to the Pixel family join this journey.

This feature is currently exclusive to select 2020-2022 BMW models and in applicable countries. It works by allowing you to lock and unlock your car, simply by tapping your phone on the handle.

You’ll even be able to start the car, using your Pixel like a key fob. Step into the future with Google.

7) Ultra-wideband has arrived.

Ultra-wideband sounds like something super-high tech. It’s essentially a radio-based communication technology that transfers data quickly and securely.

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro come equipped with ultra-wideband capabilities. You’ll now be able to send videos, photos, files and everything in between to other devices with ultra-wideband.

8) Now Playing got a makeover.

Is there anything worse than when a song starts playing and you know the tune, but can’t quite remember the name?

We think not. Now Playing is an epic feature that will automatically listen to a song that’s playing, identify it for you and cast the song’s title at the bottom of your display.

You’ll even be able to save the song as a favourite, in case you want to play it back at a later time – just tap the little music note next to the title.

9) Updates to the Recorder app.

The Recorder app has been given an upgrade that’s set to make recording conversations super-easy. The library of languages has expanded, and you can now enjoy transcriptions in Japanese, French and German.

Whether you’re holidaying abroad or speaking on the phone with your long-time pen pal, this update is set to make things so much better.

10) Snapchatter’s delight.

Quick Tap to Snap is a delightful feature that is set to impress avid Snapchat users. It’s now possible to create a Quick Tap action that will allow you to open Snapchat directly from the lock screen.

This is ideal when you need to snap something quickly or reply in the group chat. It allows you to open the app with a simple tap – great for when you have your hands full.