What you should know
- Google is combining Nearby Share and Quick Share into a single app, which will simplify file sharing between Android phones, Chromebooks, and Windows PCs.
- Fast Pair will be available on Chromecast and Google TV, making it easier to connect supported headphones and speakers for a better audio experience.
- Google is expanding its casting capabilities, allowing users to cast TikTok content and live streams to devices compatible with Chromecast. More devices, including 2024 LG TVs, will have Chromecast built in.
- Google is introducing a feature that allows easy movement of music and podcasts between a Pixel phone and a docked Pixel Tablet.
- Google is promoting the Matter standard to facilitate seamless communication between smart home devices from various brands.
- Electric vehicles will receive an upgrade with the integration of Android Auto, providing real-time battery information in Google Maps and other smart features.
- Google is integrating Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store apps directly into car displays, turning cars into infotainment hubs with Nissan and Lincoln vehicles being the first to benefit from these features.
Full Story
Google’s CES 2024 was a blast, with a ton of updates designed to make the Android ecosystem more friendly with connected devices. They’re simplifying file sharing, expanding casting options, and making it a breeze to link your car to Google services. So, your phone, laptop, TV, and even your car will play nice together, offering more features that work in sync.
File sharing? It’s getting a major revamp. No more confusion between different file-sharing methods. Google’s Nearby Share and Samsung‘s Quick Share are merging into a single app named Quick Share. Sending photos, files, and text between Android phones, Chromebooks, and even Windows PCs will be a cinch. This is thanks to a fresh partnership with LG to preload Quick Share Windows apps. And hey, you’ll still have full control over who can find your files and send them to your devices. Privacy remains a top priority.
Setting up new headphones with your TV should be a piece of cake now. Fast Pair will be available on Chromecast and Google TV next month, making it simple to connect your supported headphones and speakers. This means less hassle for movie and TV show watching in households where you want to keep the noise down. No more fumbling with Bluetooth menus – a single tap will transport you to your best audio experience.
Casting is getting a big-time upgrade. Starting today, you can cast TikTok content straight from your phone to devices that work with Chromecast. Soon, you’ll also be able to cast live TikTok streams to your living room. This makes your social experience even more interactive. Plus, more devices, like the 2024 LG TVs and LG Hospitality and Healthcare TVs, are getting Chromecast built in. So, you can use your streaming apps in hotel rooms and other places without having to log in to your personal accounts in shared places.
For Pixel Tablet owners, there’s good news. Google is introducing a new feature that lets you easily move music and podcasts from Spotify and YouTube Music between your Pixel phone and a docked Pixel Tablet. This feature enhances the user experience and makes it easier to enjoy your favorite tunes on multiple devices. With this feature, your carefully selected playlist will continue playing without interruption when you arrive home.
Smart Homes are getting even smarter with Matter. As your smart home ecosystem expands, the importance of interoperability can’t be overstated. Google is leading the way in promoting the Matter standard, which aims to facilitate seamless communication between devices from various brands. LG TVs and certain Google TV devices are now serving as Google Home hubs, allowing for seamless integration and control of Matter devices via the Google Home app.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are about to get a big boost with the integration of Android Auto. This development will greatly benefit EV drivers, as they will now have access to a range of smart features and functionalities while on the road. Android Auto will now provide real-time battery information in Google Maps, simplifying EV travel by offering estimated arrival battery level, recommending charging stops, and even forecasting charging time. The Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning will be the first EVs to enjoy this integration.
Cars are becoming Google infotainment hubs. Google is expanding its reach by integrating Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store apps directly into car displays. Nissan and Lincoln vehicles will be the first to benefit from the new features, providing a smooth and integrated in-car experience. You’ll soon be able to send pre-planned trips to your car and use entertainment apps to watch content while your car is safely parked.
Google is expanding its range of features across devices, enhancing the convenience and enjoyment of your connected life. All of this is currently on display at Google’s CES booth at Central Plaza-1, so if you happen to be there, you should stop by and check out all these exciting new innovations. Image credit goes to Google.
