Photo credit: Google

Hey tech lovers! Google’s making strides in accessibility with some super cool new updates for Pixel and Android devices. Whether you’re a pro photographer or just looking to navigate your world with ease, here’s what’s new and exciting:

1. Guided Frame for Perfect Photos
Ever struggled to get that perfect selfie or group shot? Google’s got your back with the revamped Guided Frame feature. Designed with folks who have blindness or low vision in mind, this feature now offers spoken guidance to help you get your face in the frame and position the camera just right. It’ll even tell you if the lighting’s off and suggest adjustments. Plus, with improved object recognition and focus, your photos will turn out sharper and more detailed than ever. No screen reader needed—just dive into your camera settings to activate Guided Frame.

2. Magnifier with New AI Tricks
Remember the Magnifier app from last year? It’s now got some amazing AI upgrades. You can search for specific words in your surroundings (perfect for finding that departure board at the airport or locating veggie options on a menu). The new picture-in-picture mode lets you see both the big picture and the details, so you never miss a thing. And with customizable lens options, whether you need macro zoom or wide-angle views, your Magnifier has got you covered. Don’t forget to use Selfie Illumination for touch-ups using your front camera!

3. Live Transcribe’s Dual-Screen Mode
If you’ve got a foldable phone like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, you’ll love this! The new dual-screen mode for Live Transcribe means everyone at the table can see their own transcriptions. Perfect for meetings or dinner parties, this mode keeps everyone in the loop with real-time captions.

4. Expanded Language Support for Captions and Transcriptions
Google’s Live Caption and Live Transcribe are now available in even more languages, including Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, Turkish, and Vietnamese. You can use Live Transcribe in up to 15 languages even without an internet connection. This means you can stay connected and informed, no matter where you are.

Google is committed to making tech accessible to everyone, and these updates are a huge leap forward. Check out the latest in Google’s accessibility features and see how they can make your life a bit easier. For more updates, don’t forget to tune into Google’s What’s New in Google Accessibility video series. Happy exploring!