Google drops massive Android update with Gemini AI and Find Hub
Google presents new smart features for Android (photo: Unsplash)
Google has released the September Android Drop update with five new features for smartphones. Among them are new Gemini capabilities, motion sickness protection, and improvements for communication and accessibility, reports News From Google.
Searching for items without trackers via Gemini and Find Hub
Google is integrating Gemini into the new Find Hub section. This will allow users to track the location of items without using physical tags like Pixel Tag or AirTag.
Users will be able to ask Gemini to remember where they placed items without trackers—for example, a foreign passport or spare keys.
For added reliability, a photo can be included in the description. To find an item later, users can simply ask Gemini or check the saved items tab in Find Hub.
This feature will be available on devices running Android 16 and newer in countries where Gemini and Find Hub are supported.
Motion sickness protection while traveling
To combat motion sickness when using a smartphone while in transit, Google has developed Motion Assist, a feature similar to Apple’s Vehicle Motion Cues.
The system displays moving dots on the screen that synchronize with the vehicle's motion. This helps the vestibular system adapt to visual perception.
Users can customize the shape, color, and transparency of the dots, and enable the mode automatically or via the quick settings panel.
This feature will appear on all smartphones running Android 17.
Guided Vision voice assistant in Gemini Live
A Guided Vision mode has been added to Gemini Live for visually impaired and blind users.
Using the smartphone camera, the AI helps users navigate their surroundings and handle everyday tasks:
- Reading small print on product labels.
- Identifying dishes on restaurant menus in dim lighting.
- Precisely pointing the camera at specific objects using audio cues.
This technology will be available across a wide range of devices—from Android 9 and newer—in regions where Gemini is operational.
Collaborative notes in Google Messages
Google Messages now features direct integration with Google Keep.
A dedicated shortcut has been added to the content menu (the plus icon), allowing users to create and edit shared lists—such as shopping lists or vacation plans—directly within the chat window without switching between apps.
Personalization and new chat themes
Google Messages has also received additional interface customization options.
Users can set custom images or photos from their gallery as background wallpapers for individual chats.
Message bubbles automatically adjust their color scheme to match the selected image, though colors can also be adjusted manually.
