Cases And Accessories

Google declares fast setup, fast pairing, WearOS unlocking, and different Android options at CES 2022

Source: Google

Android is one of the most popular operating systems worldwide with billions of active daily users. Google has taken drastic steps in the past few years to make the setup smoother and painless overall, and while this worked, one of the most frustrating things is setting up a new device and sharing content between other devices (not just Android phones) stayed that we still meet today. Google knows this and has announced that it will do more to provide new helpful ways for people to connect with others. Google is marketing this new step as “Better together with Android and beyond”.

Quickly set up Chrome OS for Android

Setting up a new device can be a headache for all of us as we have to log into most of our accounts individually, set up different home screens, and more. It’s a lot better than it was a few years ago, but it’s still something I avoid whenever possible. Google knows this and has come up with a new solution. When you get a new Chromebook later this year, you can use your Android phone to quickly set it up and have instant access to all of the information you’ve already saved, like WiFi passwords, Google login, and more.

Users can also turn on Fast Pair-enabled headphones, and the Chromebook will automatically detect them and pair them with a single click, so supported devices can be connected in seconds. Matter-enabled devices will also receive similar support. The new functions will be introduced “in a few weeks”.

Lock and unlock ChromeOS or Android with your Wear OS smartwatch

Source: Google

With the new feature, users can unlock Chromebooks with their Android devices and Wear OS smartwatches. The new lock / unlock method will be introduced in Wear OS “in the coming months” and will allow users to unlock other supported devices when the person is nearby.

In addition, the digital car key is already available on supported Samsung and Pixel devices, which people can use to lock and unlock compatible BMW vehicles. As of the end of this year, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology phones will no longer require users to take their phones out of their pockets to use them as car keys. Users can securely share their car keys with friends and family remotely, and Google announced plans to bring the digital car key feature to even more Android phones later this year.

Switch audio from Chrome OS to Android

Source: Google

Google is working on ways to connect headphones and other accessories to other devices at the same time. Google is working on a technology that will enable Bluetooth-enabled headphones to automatically switch the sound to the device a user is currently using. Example: If you use your headphones to watch a movie on your Android tablet, the headphones will automatically switch back to your phone when you receive a call on your smartphone. The headphones switch back automatically when the call is over. Spatial audio will also be available on supported headsets.

Source: Google

Google will also make it easier to move and manage content across devices. With Chromecast built-in, Android phones already allow anyone to share video and audio on displays, televisions and supported speakers. Chromecast will be integrated with more brands, starting with all of Bose’s smart speakers and soundbars in the next few months.

Phone Hub on Chrome OS

The Phone Hub on Chromebooks is also getting new features that allow users to access their chat apps when their phone is charging in another room. Chromebook allows users to stay in touch without installing additional applications on their Chromebooks. The camera roll in the Phone Hub is also accessible for viewing current photos and videos with just a simple click.

Better Google Assistant for EV

Google will also support more remote actions with the Google Assistant, such as: This functionality will work in all Assistant-enabled devices, and the new features will hit Volvo vehicles first in the coming months.

Android on Windows PCs

Google will allow Android devices to connect to Windows PCs using Fast Pair to quickly set up Bluetooth accessories, sync text messages, and share files using Near Share. Google announced that it is working with Acer, HP and Intel to bring these new features to select Windows PCs later this year.

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