Google Pixel 4 recorder app coming to older Pixel phones too

The Google Pixel 4 packs a lot of AI smarts. One of them includes an all-new recorder app that lets owners of the Pixel 4 transcribe spoken word/audio into text in real-time. The recorder’s auto-transcribe feature works locally on-device which means owners of the Pixel 4 do not need an Internet connection to make it work. Initially launched as a Pixel 4 exclusive, Google may bring the recorder app and its auto-transcribe feature to older Pixel phones. 

The unofficial confirmation came on Reddit from a Google official after several Pixel owners expressed concern over the lack of a similar recorder app on Pixel phones like the Pixel 3 and Pixel 2. “We plan to roll it out to older Pixel devices in a future software update,” the Googler posted on Reddit. No further details – that includes compatible Pixel devices and a tentative roll out window – were shared. 

Google is meanwhile also working on a couple of key software fixes for the new Pixel 4. It has come to light that the Pixel 4 screen can do 90Hz only at high brightness – an update to fix this is coming in the next few weeks. The other fix is regarding the Pixel 4’s face unlock that works even with your eyes shut – that's coming in the next few months. 

In other news, Google will not launch the Pixel 4 in India. The problem is Google’s Soli radar uses the 60GHz mmWave frequency which isn’t permitted for commercial/civilian use in India. This means that without proper authorization or license from the government, a commercially available product like the Pixel 4/Pixel 4 XL – smartphone or otherwise - can’t be sold in India. 

“Google has a wide range of products that we make available in different regions around the world. We determine availability based on a variety of factors, including local trends, and product features. We decided not to make Pixel 4 available in India. We remain committed to our current Pixel phones and look forward to bringing future Pixel devices to India,” a Google spokesperson had said in a statement given out to Republic World.   

Also Read:  Google Pixel 4 Screen Can Do 90Hz Only At High Brightness, Fix Coming