Created by Google, the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL rely on software to stand out. We present to you our ten favorite functions.
There is no doubt at first glance, Google is not betting on the design of the Pixel 3 to make its smartphone essential. On the contrary, the device looks rather sad if we compare it to its main high-end competitors, much prettier and often better equipped.
But it is thanks to the software that the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL differentiate themselves from their rivals. Under Android Pie, they offer some new functions from Google’s know-how in artificial intelligence. 01net.com presents ten functions that make this smartphone a truly smart.
Listening: a permanent Shazam
We have all heard good music, taken out our smartphone to identify it with Shazam and… arrived too late. A frustrating experience that Google wants to eliminate with the Pixels. Thanks to the “Listening” mode, the smartphone constantly hears what is happening around it and displays the name of each song played on the locked screen. Result, at a glance, we can identify a music. A history is then available in the settings.
Never be ugly on your selfies
With the “Top Shot” mode, Google identifies photos that someone closes their eyes or makes a face and suggests a better shot. How it works ? The Pixel 3 simply takes multiple photos before and after you press the shutter button and then compares them with the photo you took yourself. If he thinks he has a better shot, he will suggest a replacement!
Smart focus
Do you want to take a picture of a moving subject or, on the contrary, do you want to move around yourself to create a stylish effect in a video? The Pixel 3’s “Motion Auto Focus” mode responds exactly to this problem. The smartphone recognizes an object and focuses on it all the time, regardless of its distance from the camera. Quite impressive technology that guarantees sharp photos.
Create contact quickly
Using Google Lens, the Pixel 3’s Camera app can extract information from a business card and quickly create a contact. Just click on a name or number to instantly retrieve data.
A stable 10x zoom
The Pixel 3 doesn’t have a dual, triple or quadruple camera module, but still has excellent digital zoom for a smartphone. His technique? It takes several photos simultaneously to collect as much information as possible and artificially complements the out of focus areas. We also note that the stabilization is incredibly successful for a x10 zoom. Once again, a great demonstration of Google’s know-how.
A selfie with the Hulk?
Functionality more fun than revolutionary, “Playground” allows you to add characters in augmented reality to your photos. But, more original, the Google system has the particularity of reacting to your emotions. Are you smiling in a selfie with Captain America? he greets you. Are you getting angry with BB8? He’s going to run away. Several characters from franchises Avengers, Star wars Where Stranger Things are available and more should arrive.
Smile, it’s filmed!
Latest photo feature of the Pixel 3, the “Photobooth” mode. You put your smartphone in the distance and it takes a photo as soon as everyone smiles or makes a face. You can take as many photos as you want.
“Stop ringing !!! “
Your smartphone is receiving too many notifications, are you under stress and just want a little peace of mind? Just put the Pixel 3 on its screen to silence it. This mode called “Shhh” must be activated in the “Digital life” settings and actually initiates the “Do not disturb” mode. No more notifications will make noise.
Haptic feedback
IPhone users already know them: haptic feedback is coming to Android with the Pixel 3. Overall, it consists of a small vibration located on a part of the screen depending on the gestures you make. You swipe from one app to another, you feel a vibration from left to right. You type on the keyboard, each key seems to emit its own return. It’s super pleasant and it creates a real feeling of immersion. A great exclusivity for the Pixel.
Pixel Stand
Finally, Google’s Pixel Stand, marketed at 79 euros, charges your wireless smartphone while standing. Its particularity, it turns the smartphone into a lightweight Google Home. The Pixel 3 displays information on the screen and can be accessed with the “OK Google” command. It can also transform into a digital photo frame (and broadcast your most recent photos) or act as a clock radio. A smart use of wireless charging that we hope will be copied.
