Do you remember the discussion about the incomplete thermometer feature during the launch of the Google Pixel 8 series? Well, with the latest Pixel update, it has significantly improved. Now, you can utilize it as a “medical grade” thermometer for checking human body temperature.
This thermometer feature, once limited, can now be employed to assess someone’s temperature. Google’s claim of it being “medical grade” suggests that the company may have received approval from the FDA.
Despite Google asserting the accuracy of temperature readings, it’s important to approach it cautiously. Our testing of the Pixel 8 Pro temperature sensor against an industrial thermometer yielded inconsistent readings. Relying on it blindly for fever checks might not be advisable until its accuracy is thoroughly confirmed through extensive testing.
Interestingly, a recent poll on our website indicated that most Pixel 8 Pro users don’t use the temperature sensor frequently. While Google has improved accuracy, it remains to be seen if this enhancement encourages more regular use.
The update doesn’t just bring improvements to the thermometer feature; it introduces various new features as well.
For instance, Pixel phones are now equipped with the Circle to Search feature, similar to what Samsung introduced with the Galaxy S24. This feature allows users to perform a Google search on selected content by long-pressing the home button, whether it’s an image, text, or something else.
Another notable addition is Magic Compose, available on the Pixel 6 series. It resembles the “Help me write” feature for Google Chrome, enabling users to use AI to alter their drafted messages in different styles. While this processing happens on the Pixel 8 Pro device, older Pixel models may require internet connectivity for cloud processing, which could be slightly slower.
The update also replaces Nearby Share with Quick Share, simplifying the name without altering the functionality. Quick Share enables easy sharing between Windows, ChromeOS, and Android devices nearby, as long as they support the feature.
It’s worth noting that these features are available in the latest phones, such as the Google Pixel 8, which comes with the latest version of Android.
