Millions of Android owners receive huge free ‘AI assistance’ upgrade that instantly boosts their smartphones

MILLIONS of Android owners have snagged a free upgrade to their At a Glance widget, which use artificial intelligence (AI) to better provide information that can make users’ days run smoothly.

The home screen widget has not only been visually revamped, but now offers more helpful details about users’ events, travel and local weather.

Google

When travelling, the widget can now show users the exact terminal where their baggage will be waiting[/caption]

Google

The widget saves users from rooting around their library for one specific app[/caption]

In a statement yesterday, Google said: “The Assistant At a Glance widget uses AI to bring you helpful information like high-precision weather alerts, dynamic travel updates and upcoming event reminders on your home screen — right when you need them.”

At a Glance uses data from apps on your device, such as an airline app or weather app.

It sits on the lock screen, home screen, and Always On Display, so information and updates are always easily accessible.

It saves users from rooting around their library for one specific app.

When travelling, the widget can now show users the exact terminal where their baggage will be waiting.

And it’ll reveal whether Android owners’ need to grab an umbrella on their way out, at a glance.

The widget isn’t entirely new, but the new features have given it a major boost in usability.

It’s also available on some of Google’s wearable devices, like the Pixel Watch, which will also tell users a time to leave, calendar events and commute time.

Google is rolling out the ability to ask questions – by voice or typing – about images with Lookout, which is expected to help make media accessible for people who are blind or low-vision.

However, for smartphone owners – the feature is only available on the Pixel 3 and up, and only on devices running Android 12 and onwards.

A number of Android owners have yet to receive the update, and are stumped as to why.

While Google has begun the roll out, it may not have landed on your phone just yet.

You can try restarting it, but ultimately, patience is key.

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