Google’s recently confirmed January Pixel Feature Drop has taken a different route, focusing solely on app updates available through the Play Store. In contrast to previous Feature Drops, this one skips an accompanying Android system update. Instead, users can anticipate significant improvements delivered through in-app updates via the Google Play Store.
Notable app updates include the Pixel Thermometer app, introducing body temperature measurements, and enhancements to the Fitbit app with added logging support. The Google app features a special “cts” version (e.g., 15.3.34.29.cts.arm64) for Circle to Search, accessible through the Google app beta channel ahead of the January 31 rollout, pending a server-side component.
Key features like Magic Compose (limited to Pixel 8 Pro’s on-device Gemini Nano) and Photomoji are set for server-side updates within Google Messages. Quick Share and Seamless Audio Switching, on the other hand, rely on Google Play services.
Additionally, Google Store has issued 20% off discount codes for the Mint Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, providing an exciting incentive for users.
While the January Pixel Feature Drop leans heavily on app updates, Google assures users that the “regular February software update” will roll out early next month. The specifics of this update, potentially Android 14 QPR2, remain undisclosed. The anticipation builds for what’s to come, especially given the unconventional January approach and the likelihood of significant improvements on the horizon.