Google today announced the next features for Android, including a new password check tool to help you schedule your texts, as well as other improvements to products like the TalkBack screen reader, Maps, Assistant, and Android Auto. This spring version 2021 is the latest in a series of smaller update bundles, similar to iOS point releases, which add new functions and features to Android outside of the larger update cycle.
For security reasons, this update will include a feature called named Password check run into devices Android 9 and above to make you aware of passwords that you previously disclosed.
The feature works with autofill with Google, so you can quickly sign into apps and other services on Android. Now, whenever you use Autofill, Password Checker checks your credentials against a list of known compromised passwords, and then notifies you if your credentials are on that list and what to do about them.
Credit: Google
The command prompt can also direct you to yours Password manager page at google where you can check all other saved autofill passwords for similar issues.
In order to use this function, the automatic filling must be activated. (Settings> System> Languages & input> Advanced, tap Auto-fill. Tap Google to make sure the setting is turned on.)
With the new “Messages” feature that introduces this update, profilifc copywriters might consider switching to Android, as this is one of the most sought-after features since the invention of SMS: the ability to schedule your texts.
Credit: Google
Android’s new scheduled sending feature lets you pre-compose a message whenever it suits you and then send it later when it’s more appropriate. This can be especially helpful when you have friends, family, or co-workers in different time zones and are reluctant to disturb them when they might be sleeping after work or enjoying family time. It can also help those who often remember something they wanted to write when it is late at night and too late to send the message.
To use this feature, simply write the text as you normally would, then press and hold the Send key to select a date and time for the message to be delivered. You will need this latest version of the Android Messages app for this feature to work.
Another flagship of this version of Android is the simplification of using the Android screen reader known as TalkBack for users with blindness or low vision. With TalkBack, users today can use their voice and gestures to navigate their device to read, write, send email, share social media, order delivery, and more.
Credit: Google
The updated version (TalkBack 9.1) now includes a dozen new multi-finger gestures that you can use to interact with apps and perform general actions, such as: B. Select and edit text, control media, or get help. According to Google, this works on Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices from One UI 3.
Google is also responding to user feedback through TalkBack’s confusing multi-menu system and has reverted to the single-menu system they wanted. This single menu adapts to the context and at the same time offers consistent access to the most common functions.
Other improvements to TalkBack include new gestures – like swiping up and right to access over 25 voice commands – and new reading controls that let users either skim a page, read headings only, word for word, or even character by Can hear signs.
Users can now also add or remove options from the TalkBack menu or reading controls to further customize the user interface. Plus, TalkBack’s Braille keyboard Added support for Arabic and Spanish.
The spring update also offers minor improvements for Maps, Assistant and Android Auto.
Maps is given a dark mode that you can activate by default under “Settings”> “Theme” and then select “Always in the dark theme”.
Credit: Google
With the Google Assistant update, you can use the feature when the phone is locked or further away from you. Activate the option “Block personal results” in the settings of the assistant and say “Hey Google” if necessary.
The new cards that appear when the phone is locked should be easier to read at a glance, according to Google.
And finally, Android Auto is now getting custom wallpapers and voice-activated games like Trivia and “Jeopardy!” what you can request with the command “Hey Google”.
There are also now shortcuts on the home screen that you can use to access your contacts or use the wizard to do tasks like checking the weather or setting the thermostat. Vehicles with wider screens get access to a split screen view with Google Maps on one side and media controls on the other.
The functions of Android Auto will be introduced in the “coming days” on mobile phones with Android 6.0 and higher and will also work compatible cars, Google notes.