Google’s March Pixel Drop is here with a ton of Android upgrades

Google’s AI-powered scam detection works in both text and phone calls on Pixels.

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Google

As for the non-AI features, satellite messaging will expand in the new Pixel Drop. The Pixel 9 series is among a handful of phones that have satellite connectivity. When you’re outside of cellular coverage, Pixel phones can connect to compatible satellite networks to get emergency help. This feature was previously only live in the continental US, but now it’s coming to Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Support for carrier satellite features is also expanding. At launch, Pixels only used Google’s own satellite SOS system, which is being provided free for the first two years. The new Pixel Drop will add Verizon and T-Mobile as supported carriers for satellite messaging.

The Pixel 9 family will also get a nifty new video recording trick. After installing the Pixel Drop update, you’ll be able to connect a Pixel to another Pixel or a GoPro camera to record video from two different angles simultaneously. Google says this will make mobile recordings look more professional and expand shooting options. However, if using a GoPro, it only works with the 2021 GoPro HERO10 Black or newer, and app support is limited to Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.

Something for everyone

Even if you don’t have a Pixel phone, Google has a few goodies waiting for you. These features are coming to all currently supported Android phones, including Pixels.

The AI scam-detection feature from Pixel phones will be available to all Android devices in a more limited form. If someone is trying to scam you over text in the Google Messages app, the AI will be able to (potentially) recognize that and warn you, just like on a Pixel 6 through 8. However, only Pixel 9 phones have the phone call scam alerts.