While Pixel 4s are impressive in many ways, Google focused on a few key features during its conference. The focus was on photography, but the firm ignored some new features that XDA Developers has compiled.
The 90 Hz display can be set
If the Pixel 4 is equipped with a 90 Hz OLED display, it is ultimately the software that will dynamically choose when to prefer this refresh rate to the classic 60 Hz one.
While Google probably made this choice to optimize the autonomy of its smartphone, some people can no longer do without an extended refresh rate (and we understand them). It is possible, via an option reserved for developers, to force the 90 Hz display permanently.
Live Caption reserved for the English language
We suspected it a little bit, but there’s no point in confusing ourselves with false hopes. Live Caption, the feature that allows the Pixel 4 to transcribe dialogues in real-time (and even offline!) is currently only available in English.
Top Shot allows an even more precise selection
Introduced on Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, Top Shot is a feature that enables the smartphone to capture 10 photos in a row and automatically select the two best shots in the package.
For even more precision in the exercise, Pixel 4 will now be able to do the same thing, but with a short video (press the button). The objective is to be able to choose even more precisely THE perfect moment to keep in your image.
Nevertheless, according to Android Police, a snapshot obtained from a short Top Shot video will be saved in 768 x 1024 pixels against 2048 x 1536 pixels via the original functionality.
The telephoto lens will now be used for portraits
The Pixel 4s are equipped with a second lens with an extended focal length. And like Apple on its iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X and iPhone Xs, it is now this telephoto lens that will be used by Google for portrait mode.
The idea was to tighten the frame and better consider the depth of field to minimize false positives during digital processing.
The new Google Assistant
Google launched a new interface for its Assistant. Even soberer and intelligent, this one will eventually be available on the Pixel 3, 3 XL and 3a.
However, we have no certainty about the “when.”
Astrophotography mode
Already excellent in low light, the third generation Pixels will benefit from the new astrophotography mode of Pixel 4.
For convincing results, you will need to place your smartphone on a tripod or, failing that, on a stationary surface for the duration of the installation.
Again, there is no indication as to when the functionality will be available on older generation pixels.