As per its monthly promise, Google is rolling out another free upgrade package of enhancements for its Pixel devices.
Google’s March Pixel Drop update not only adds intriguing new features to the Pixel 9 series and older phones, but there’s also some big news for the Pixel smartwatches.
The over-the-air (OTA) rollout started this week and will continue over the coming days. Let’s take a closer look at what’s new, including multi-camera support and improved satellite messaging.
Scam detection powered by AI
Google is introducing on-device AI to detect suspicious language in phone calls and text messages that may indicate a scam. This feature is available for text messages on the Pixel 6 and newer devices in both the UK and US, while voice call detection requires the Pixel 9 and is available only in the US.
Multi-camera simultaneous support
The Pixel 9 is turning into a mini production studio with the ability to capture footage from multiple cameras at the same time. Users can now record from their main camera while connecting to a second phone or even an external GoPro for multi-angle streaming.
Pixel Studio now supports people
Pixel Studio, Google’s AI-powered image-generation tool introduced with the Pixel 9, can now create images featuring people. Initially restricted to prevent misuse, this update expands the tool’s creative potential while maintaining responsible AI safeguards.
Satellite SOS expanded
Satellite SOS is now expanding to Hawaii, Alaska, Europe, and Canada, allowing you to stay connected to emergency services even without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.
Satellite messaging enhancements
Additionally, Pixel 9 owners using Verizon and T-Mobile will now have carrier-supported satellite messaging for emergencies.
Improved Pixel Screenshots
Pixel Screenshots is becoming even more powerful, now offering automatic suggestions for screenshots to add to collections. Google is also introducing support for work profiles, making organisation easier for professionals.
Share your location with Find My Device
You can now use Find My Device to share your live location with friends and family, allowing them to track you and ensure you’re safe. By adjusting the app’s settings, you can share your location with others, and they can do the same with you.
New dual screen features for foldables
The Pixel Fold and Pixel 9 Pro Fold users can enjoy new dual-screen capabilities, including enhanced video recording and ‘Add Me’ composition, allowing for more creative shots.
Gemini Live upgrades
Gemini Live, Google’s AI-powered assistant, is receiving significant updates. Users can now switch seamlessly between multiple languages, use video and screen sharing in Gemini Advanced, and upload photos, files, and videos for interactions on Pixel 6 and newer models.
Pixel Recorder gets smarter
The Pixel Recorder app is becoming even more intelligent, now capable of automatically transcribing older recordings. This AI-powered enhancement makes it easier to search and reference past audio files.
Keep your recordings when switching phones
Additionally, if you have old recordings that you want to keep when switching to a new phone, you can now transfer them from your older phone or Pixel Watch to your current Pixel device. Once transferred, they will be automatically transcribed in the Recorder app.
With Gboard’s new Voice Toolbar, you can now easily access voice-to-type on your Pixel phone, allowing you to type without needing the full keyboard.
Enhanced Pixel Mode personalisation
Pixel Modes, which allow users to customise phone settings for different activities such as bedtime and driving, are getting additional personalisation options, making it easier to fine-tune settings for various scenarios.
You can now simply swipe down from the top of your screen to activate modes like Driving, Bedtime, and Do Not Disturb, and explore customisations to fit different situations.
Pixel AI expands to Japan and Germany
Lastly, Pixel users in Japan and Germany are getting a host of AI-powered features, including Pixel Recorder AI summaries, Pixel Studio, Pixel Screenshots, and AI-generated weather summaries. These features will be available on Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 9 models.
Google’s latest Pixel Watch updates not only finally brings Android 15 with Wear OS 5.1, but also focus on enhancing health monitoring and improving user experience.
Loss-of-pulse detection
Google has received FDA clearance for its new loss-of-pulse detection feature on the Pixel Watch 3. This life-saving feature can detect when a user’s heart stops beating and trigger an alert, reinforcing Google’s commitment to health monitoring.
On-device menstrual tracking
The Pixel Watch 3 is also gaining menstrual tracking features, allowing users to predict their cycles with on-device AI, enhancing privacy and convenience.
It’s a big shame that it’s not coming to Pixel Watch 2 or Pixel Watch, though.
Auto-bedtime mode expands to Pixel Watch 2
Google’s Pixel Watch 3 already detects when users fall asleep and automatically activates power-saving mode. This functionality is being extended to the Pixel Watch 2, ensuring a better battery life experience.
Better audio control on Pixel Watch
You can now also manage your favourite audio content more easily on your Pixel Watch with new actions that let you fast forward, rewind, adjust playback speed, and control your playback queue.
Improved step tracking
Additionally, all Pixel Watch models will benefit from improved step-tracking accuracy, especially in scenarios where users are pushing objects while walking, addressing inconsistencies seen in previous versions.
This March 2025 Pixel Drop is packed with useful features, enhancing security, creativity, and health tracking across Google’s ecosystem. Whether you’re using a Pixel phone or watch, these updates should make your device smarter, safer, and more intuitive.
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