Android users: Major update unveiled by Google for certain phones, is yours concerned?

As of Monday, 5 December, Google has released a major new update which will improve the security of users and includes new innovative features.

Major new features

The new Android update brings a number of advanced protection functionalities, letting users control and review their security and privacy settings and other information all in one place, Express reports.

The major update in terms of security is the introduction of an in-built VPN. The Virtual Private Network enables users to hide their online identity and is ideal when you log into your email or visit websites via public Wi-fi.

As of now, most reliable VPN apps require users to pay for such services but Google has unveiled a free version included in the new android update.

The new update also brings ‘Digital Car Key’ to the Digital Wallet app, which is a feature that enables users to open their cars using their phones. Albeit at present only a limited range of car models are compatible.

The feature even lets users share a key with friends and family when they are not physically there and the car needs to be accessed.

Another important upgrade is a feature called ‘Clear Calling’ which will enhance the quality of a phone call, using Google’s tensor processor.

The feature will cut down on background noise no matter the device they are using. This means a conversation will be much more clear despite talking while walking down the street or being in a crowded room.

The new operating system is also bringing advances in terms of accessibility with a new reading mode that will help people with dyslexia or visual imparity to consume online content better.

Users would have to install an app called ‘Reading mode’ to access functionalities that let them choose between text font size and colour, plus it has a text-to-speech mode with speed control, TechCrunch reports.

Limited availability

Unfortunately, the new Android upgrade is going to be available only for certain Google phones, the entire package will be coming to Pixel 7, while certain upgrades will be released for Pixel 4, 5, and 6.
As of now, there is no information about if and when the new upgrade will be available for other Android-based phones.

Sources used:

-Express: 'Google releases blockbuster Android upgrade but only if you own one of these phones'

-TechCrunch: ‘Android’s December update features include accessible reading mode and sharable car keys’