Google unveils new Android features: what to remember

As with every update, Google has its share of surprises in store for us. There are some nice surprises here.

Google has announced several new features for Android, which are not integrated into the latest version of the operating system, but deployed in the form of updates via Play Services or applications.

In total, 7 changes and features are expected, but we decided to focus on the most interesting ones.

You can edit your SMS after sending

Google Messages, Google’s messaging application, is updated and now offers message editing functionality. Have you sent a message and realized it had a spelling mistake or was poorly worded? Don’t panic, you now have 15 minutes to modify it.

This functionality, already present in certain competitors such as WhatsApp or iMessage, is welcome and should delight many users. But that’s not all, because this Google Messages update is also an opportunity to learn more about RCS.

The RCS, or Rich Communication Servicesis a communications protocol that aims to replace SMS and MMS.

But Google’s new features don’t stop there. Google also announced improvements to Internet sharing, which will soon allow users to connect an Android tablet or Chromebook to their phone’s hotspot with just one click, without a password.

This feature, called “ instant tethering ”, is very practical and should make life easier for many users who juggle between several devices. But that’s not all, as this feature will also allow switching between connected devices during Google Meet calls by tapping the Cast icon.

Another interesting new feature: the Google Home Favorites widget, which allows users to quickly view and control their most used smart home devices, is now available on the home screen of Android phones.

But that’s not all, as smartwatches running Wear OS 3 or later can also run the Google Home Favorites tile, as well as a new PayPal option for Google Wallet in the US and Germany.

Finally, Google announced an extension of the digital key, which allows you to open your car using your smartphone. This feature, already available from certain manufacturers, will soon be offered on certain Mini, Mercedes-Benz and Polestar models. Support for Mercedes-Benz will be available on June 10, while Polestar support will be rolled out between June 17 and 21.