Google Pixel phone's new feature lets you type to talk during calls

Google has announced a new feature drop which lets its Pixel smartphone users type to talk during phone calls. This update marks Google’s tenth Pixel Feature Drop and will be deployed on Pixel 3a and Pixel 5a (5G) devices from March 7 onwards. Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro devices will begin receiving these updates later this month, as revealed by Google.

Feature drop is a term used for feature addition by Google.

“For people who can't or prefer not to speak on calls, there's a new way to communicate with Live Caption. Now when you’re on a phone call you can see captions of what the other person says and type back a response that will be read out loud on the other end, Chris Breithaupt, a product manager at Google, said in a blogpost.

Google had earlier added the feature of using Live Captions to turn any speech from callers into text on its Pixel users’ smartphone. This time around, it’s adding the option to turn text into spoken words. 

Google has also revealed that when its users are typing in messaging apps, Gboard can convert your words into colourful stickers built with the exact text.  

“With emoji, emoji kitchen and custom sticker suggestions while you type, your Pixel helps you express exactly how you feel. Coming to Pixel users globally typing in English (US) starting today," Breithaupt added in the same blogpost.

In the same blogpost, Google’s Product manager revealed that the Pixel update also includes a night photography mode called “Night Sight” for Snapchat, wherein it will be easier for its users to capture clear low-light pictures and video without having to use flash.

Google is also working on a new Pixel battery widget that is designed to display up-to-date information about your phone and Bluetooth-connected devices, such as Pixel Buds.