Google Pixel Devices Now Support Instagram’s Ultra HDR Photos

Google Pixel devices are set to revolutionise the Instagram experience with the ability to upload and view Ultra HDR photos. This incredible feature is part of Google’s latest March feature drop, already rolling out to support Pixel 7, Pixel 8, and Pixel Fold phones starting March 4, 2024. 

But Google isn’t stopping there. Alongside this game-changing Instagram enhancement to Google Pixel devices, a plethora of fresh software features is making its way to Pixel phones and watches, accompanied by general software updates for its tablets and other Pixel hardware. Google is expediting the update rollout to Pixel devices outside the U.S., scheduled to commence on March 4, with U.S. devices following suit on March 11. 

Also Read: Latest Google Pixel 8 Feature Drop: Circle to Search and Additional Additions

Google Pixel Devices Catch Up with Samsung’s Ultra HDR Instagram Support

While Samsung’s Galaxy S24 pioneered in supporting Ultra HDR photos on Instagram, Google Pixel devices will soon join the league. Now, users can unleash the full colour and contrast of Pixel-captured photos on Instagram, alongside the ability to capture and share 10-bit HDR videos to Instagram Reels.

In the upcoming feature drop next week, Pixel 7 and 7 Pro users will be treated to the arrival of Circle to Search. This innovative feature enables users to simply long-press on the navigation bar and draw a circle around the words or images users want to search on Google. Circle to Search, a feature previously exclusive to the S24 and Pixel 8 earlier this year, is now extending its utility to Pixel 7 devices, enhancing the search experience to new levels of convenience and efficiency.

Enhanced Call-Screening and Health Features

Google is making another big move to expand its call-screening features to provide even more functionality. This feature is a game-changer, and it comes with a new tool designed for instances when a caller is silent. Exclusive to English-speaking users in the U.S, users can now tap the new “Hello” chip to prompt Google Assistant to request the caller to speak up. 

Additionally, Google Assistant can courteously inform the caller to hold if you cannot answer immediately. This innovative tool is set to roll out to Pixel 6 or newer Google Pixel devices and the Pixel Fold.

Google is also introducing exciting health-tracking features to the original Pixel Watch. These enhancements promise to revolutionise users’ health and fitness experience and ensure they stay on track with their goals. 

Also Read: Exploring the Recent Debut of the New Android 15 Developer Preview

Other New Features on the Horizon

Prepare to take your fitness journey to new heights with the latest update on Google Pixel devices like the Pixel watch. Google will be introducing a multitude of features to enhance the workout experience.

First, users will now enjoy Pace Training, a feature that allows users to set a goal pace. The watch will then alert users when they reach it to help users stay on track with fitness goals. 

Additionally, Heart Zone Training provides valuable insights into exercise sessions by tracking the time spent in each heart rate zone. Users can also customise heart rate zone targets and receive voice cues or haptic responses as they enter and exit specific zones to maximise workout efficiency.

— Google Pixel devices like the Pixel watches utilising Wear OS 3 and above will now offer on-watch public transit directions via Google Maps. This feature provides multiple transit options, real-time departure information, and a compass-enabled map, making navigation a breeze during workouts.

— Pixel watches are now equipped with automatic workout detection. Whether running, walking, using the elliptical, spinning, cycling outdoors, on the treadmill, or rowing, watches will seamlessly start and stop workouts based on activity.

— The Relax App will be included to guide users through breathing exercises while tracking moments of mindfulness. Although Google has yet to disclose specifics regarding data collection and evaluation, this feature promises to enhance overall well-being.

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Google Pixel Devices Redefining Visual Content Creation

Google is taking a big step forward by making Google Pixel devices to capture stunning HDR photos and videos directly within Instagram. It is bringing a unique feature previously exclusive to the Samsung Galaxy S24 series to a broader audience. Meta’s confirmation to The Verge earlier this year hinted at this development, signalling a collaborative effort between Google, Meta, and other Android partners, including Apple’s iOS devices.

During Samsung’s AI-focused Galaxy S24 announcement in January, the tech giant boasted about being the first to enable HDR photo capture on Instagram and integrate native camera features within Snapchat. 

Bridging the Gap

While Samsung still holds the “First and only” title for low-light Nightography photos, Google’s move to bring HDR capture to Pixel smartphones in the United States on March 11 (March 4 for the rest of the world). Google’s announcement did not mention Snapchat integration, so Samsung maintains its dominance in that aspect. Meanwhile, Samsung has plans to introduce Galaxy S24-specific updates in the coming weeks, further enriching the user experience.

@productnationco Nightography on the Galaxy S23 FE in KL 😍 #withgalaxy #samsung #samsunggalaxy #s23fe #nightography ♬ original sound – ProductNation 🇲🇾

Google promises users an unparalleled visual experience with Google Pixel devices. This experience will include stunning video quality with vibrant colours, heightened intensity, and enhanced contrast in HDR mode. Now, users can capture and share 10-bit HDR videos directly on Instagram Reels, elevating their content to new heights compared to non-Ultra HDR videos. 

Read Next: Samsung Galaxy S24 Series: Everything You Should Know About the New Mobile-AI Featured Phones

Our Final Say

With these exciting updates on Google Pixel devices, users can expect elevated photography, workout experience, and enhanced functionality. Google is obviously going strong after over two decades, and its latest updates will help it bridge the gap and cement its position as a top contender in the smartphone space.