Google spoke about new Android features that will appear even on older smartphones

The Google blog has appeared article, which introduces users to useful new features and improvements in Android. All these changes are not tied to major system updates - they will become available even on some older gadgets.

Camera Switches and Project Activate

This is a function and a special application for controlling a smartphone using facial gestures - for people with disabilities. For reading, the front camera is used, which recognizes facial expressions and eye movements. For example, certain actions can be set to open the mouth, smile or even move the eyebrows. And Project Activate will allow you to bind gestures to a speech synthesizer so that the smartphone can speak phrases instead of the user.

Google TV remote control

You can now control Google TV using the virtual remote control in the app of the same name on your smartphone. There will be a field for moving the pointer, volume button, launching the "Assistant" and "Home". It will be possible to type text on TV using a familiar keyboard on a smartphone.

Password for a folder in "Google Photos"

In Google Photos, you can now create a folder for your most personal pictures that you want to hide from people with access to your device. Snapshots from this folder will not be visible in the shared feed and can only be viewed after entering a special password. This was previously only available on Pixel, but will soon be available on all Android devices.

Reminder Center "Assistant"

Now you can manage all of your reminders by saying, "Ok Google, open my reminders." In the new menu, you will see all your saves and helpful suggestions for recurring reminders that can be activated with a single tap.

Gboard smart buffer

The Gboard keyboard will soon allow you to create your own emoji by combining standard emoji variations. Also, when copying text that includes a phone number, email address and URL, Gboard will automatically extract and split the data. This will allow you to use only part of the information from the clipboard, for example, to insert a phone into a phone field when filling out a form.

Also, if you open the messaging app right after taking a screenshot, Gboard will show that screenshot and immediately prompt you to share it with one of your contacts.

Heads Up Alerts

Another useful feature from Pixel smartphones is Heads Up notifications about the need to distract from the smartphone while walking. It can be configured and enabled through the Digital Wellbeing section on devices running Android 9 and newer.