Google Releases Pixel Feature Drop Alongside March Security Update for Compatible Devices: All the Details

While security updates are distributed to all devices, only specific Pixel devices will receive access to all features included in this Drop.

Google has initiated the rollout of its newest March Security update, accompanied by a range of new feature enhancements for different supported Pixel devices courtesy of the latest Feature Drop. The security patch weighs approximately 742MB (tested on our Pixel 8 review unit) and is available for several Pixel devices, spanning from the newest Pixel 8 Pro to the Pixel Tablet and the Pixel 5a 5G, which now becomes the oldest supported device following the last official security update for the Pixel 4a in November of last year.

Google’s March Security Update for Pixel Devices

Identified with the software version AP1A.240305.019.A1, the March security update is accessible for various Pixel smartphones, the Pixel Tablet, and the sole Google foldable device, the Pixel Fold. As customary, this security update includes numerous bug fixes and enhancements.

These include general stability and performance improvements “with certain apps” and a fix for Google Assistant when it refuses to respond on all recent Pixel smartphones in “certain conditions”. Fingerprint recognition on Pixel 6 through Pixel 8 Pro is also said to be improved in response.

Additionally, there’s a camera repair included for recent Pixel smartphones, addressing an issue where the camera would completely stop working. It remains unclear whether this addresses the Night mode bug observed in our Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 8 Pro evaluations. The update is also reported to introduce overall enhancements for system stability and performance, which should ideally resolve the stuttering or janky scrolling problems encountered by numerous users.

Additional fixes address various issues such as sensor malfunctions (failure to vibrate for new texts), telephony issues (failure to route calls to paired Bluetooth devices), and even audio distortion during calls. Moreover, several user interface problems have been resolved, including the game dashboard ceasing to function, disappearance of home screen icons, stuck live wallpapers, and unresponsive taskbar icons and buttons under specific conditions.

Google’s March Feature Drop for Pixel Devices

Regarding the Google Feature Drop, updates will be automatically sent to your connected devices or smartphones you own. The Pixel Feature Drop is available for devices running Android 14, and the rollout will follow the usual phased approach. Users who have installed the March Security Update will need to update their apps separately to access some of the new features.

Supported Pixel smartphones will receive enhancements to the Call Screen feature, which is currently limited to specific regions. The latest update enhances the call screening feature’s functionality when the caller remains silent. It introduces a “hello” chip to the interface, which, once activated, will prompt the caller to speak.

Although recently released Pixel models can already capture high-contrast 10-bit HDR videos, users can now share these HDR videos and photos directly on Instagram Reels. Interestingly, Samsung smartphones received this feature before Google’s Pixel devices did.

A feature that arrived simultaneously on the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 series was Circle to Search. Google has now confirmed that it’s also coming to the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. However, Pixel 7 owners won’t get it right away. Google has labeled it as “coming soon,” so Pixel 7 owners will have to wait a bit longer.

Regarding the Pixel Watch, Google has introduced updates from the Pixel Watch 2 to the original Pixel Watch. These updates bring features like Pace Training, allowing users to set a goal pace during workouts, and Heart Zone Training, which monitors time spent in different heart rate zones. Additionally, there are features like auto-pause, auto-start, and auto-stop, which reduce the need for manual intervention during workouts. However, auto workout detection is currently limited to specific exercises such as running, walking, elliptical, spinning, outdoor biking, treadmill, and rowing. Furthermore, Google has enhanced the workout interface with larger text and brighter colors for improved visibility and readability. For users with access to the Fitbit app, new breathing exercises are now available on the original Pixel Watch as well.

The Pixel Watch now features public transit directions directly on its display. Users can access various transit options, including real-time departures and a map view with a compass enabled.

Google has introduced a new feature for Pixel devices, allowing users to share specific content on their screen instead of the entire screen during screen sharing. This feature enables users to share individual apps rather than displaying everything visible on the screen, whether it’s on a phone, tablet, or a foldable Pixel device.

Google Docs now supports handwritten markups, allowing users to scribble using a dedicated stylus or even their finger. The markup feature in Google Docs offers a range of tools, including different pen colors and highlighters for users to choose from.

Finally, Google’s Pixel Tablet receives an improved Gboard voice toolbar for a more streamlined experience. When voice input is activated, this toolbar takes over, hiding the keyboard and allowing users to view content while dictating text into the text field using a slim, pill-shaped bar at the bottom.