Google delivers Android 13 December 2022 update for Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro

Having released new features to Wear OS and the Pixel Watch, Google has also announced a corresponding update for Pixel smartphones, which should eventually reach all smartphones eligible for Android 13. Presumably arriving first on the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, it remains to be seen when the likes of OnePlus, Samsung or Xiaomi will integrate any of the new features covered in Google's most recent blog post. Regardless, most seem manufacturer agnostic, unlike some that Google has rolled out to Pixel smartphones in recent years.

Specifically, Google has released a new Reading mode app that the company has distributed through the Google Play Store. According to the Play Store listing, the new app is compatible with Android 9 and up rather than being Android 13 exclusive. In short, the app serves as a system-wide reader view, which should be helpful to those with impaired vision, as should an optional voice output. Additionally, Google has added a new home screen widget designed to search YouTube without first needing to open the app to do so.

Elsewhere, Google has finally added the option within the Google TV app of wirelessly streaming content to compatible devices over Chromecast and using your smartphone as a remote control. Alternatively, you can continue browsing videos on your smartphone as the streaming video plays out. The December 2022 update enables new layouts for collages within the stock Gallery app too, as well as the option of combining multiple emojis into one sticker using Gboard. Finally, Google has introduced the ability to share digital car keys from within the Google Wallet app. The feature is an iPhone and Pixel 6 series smartphone exclusive for now, although it should be coming to all devices running at least Android 12, eventually. You can find the full changes for this month's Android update in Google's blog post.

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