Pixel: AI will summarize your notifications to save you time
Google continues to integrate artificial intelligence into its Pixel phones with the latest Pixel Drop. The new update, now available for Pixel 9 and newer models (excluding the 9a), introduces a long-awaited feature: notification summaries.
This update also brings improvements in scam detection and new AI-powered image editing options via Google Messages.
AI-generated notification summaries
Google addresses a well-known issue: the flood of notifications. The new smart summary feature relies on an embedded AI model to automatically synthesize lengthy conversations from messaging apps.
Specifically, the system analyzes received messages and displays a summary directly in the notification panel, allowing users to grasp the key points without opening the conversation. Currently, this feature is limited to text discussions and lengthy exchanges, a cautious approach designed to avoid misinterpretations seen in Apple’s equivalent version.
Google notes that a future update, scheduled for December, will further enhance this feature by automatically categorizing notifications based on their importance, while silencing alerts deemed secondary.
Improved protection against scams
Another major addition is the expansion of scam detection. Previously limited to SMS in Google Messages, this feature now extends to certain third-party apps like Telegram and Discord. When a suspicious message is detected, the notification displays a badge reading “Likely scam.” Tapping on it prompts a contextual alert urging the user to exercise caution.
Scam detection for calls is also expanding to new countries: the UK, Ireland, India, Australia, and Canada. This option is available only for Pixel 9 and higher models, excluding the 9a.
AI photo remixing in Google Messages
The update also introduces a creative touch: the Remix feature in Google Messages. Utilizing AI Gemini Nano, users can now modify or reinvent photos directly within their conversations, without needing to go through Google Photos.
This option is available on all Pixel 6 and newer models, as well as on other Android phones in English-speaking countries (the United States, UK, Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, and New Zealand).
Google appears to be aiming to avoid the pitfalls of Apple’s notification management while focusing on a more contextual and subtle AI, designed to simplify daily life rather than revolutionize it.
