Pixel Screenshots, the built-in tool on Pixel phones for capturing and managing screenshots, received a significant update in December 2024. This update paves the way for deeper integration with Gboard in the future Feature Drop, but also brings some immediate improvements to the app itself.
Enhanced Organization with Automatic Filters
One of the most notable additions is the introduction of automatic filters. These categorize your screenshots based on the content they contain. When you open the Pixel Screenshots app, you'll see a carousel of filters above your screenshot grid. Options include Articles, Events, Flight Info, Lists, Social Media, Movies, Music, Notes, Places, Product Info, Profile Info, Promos, Receipts, Recipes, Tracking Info, Movies/TV, and Videos.
These filters make it easier to find specific screenshots later. Tapping a filter will display only screenshots categorized under that label. The filters also appear when you initiate a search within the Pixel Screenshots app, further streamlining your search process.
Streamlined User Interface
The update also includes some user interface (UI) tweaks to the Pixel Screenshots details page. Previously, the Share, Edit, and Reminder buttons were located below the screenshot image. This update relocates them to the top-right corner, making them more accessible.
Additionally, the space beneath the screenshot now displays the deep link associated with the image, if applicable. This could be a link to YouTube for a screenshot of a video or a link to Chrome for a screenshot of a webpage. Alongside the deep link, you'll also see suggestions for various search terms related to the screenshot content.
Seamless Integration with Circle to Search (Coming Soon)
The update lays the groundwork for a future integration with Circle to Search. Circle to Search, another Pixel-exclusive feature, lets you identify objects or text within an image using Google Lens. The upcoming integration will allow you to leverage Circle to Search directly from the Pixel Screenshots app.
With this integration, you'll be able to select a specific portion of a screenshot and choose "Save" to Pixel Screenshots. A badge will appear next to the "Save" option indicating Circle to Search integration, and upon saving, you'll receive a "Selection saved" notification with a "View" option at the bottom for quick access.
Availability and Additional Notes
The Pixel Screenshots update (version 0.24.433.15) rolled out in December 2024 via Google Play. After updating, a new model downloads, but the Gboard integration functionality won't be live until the subsequent Feature Drop. Information gleaned from app strings suggests a future setting toggle titled "Get suggestions in Gboard" that will enable you to "See movie, music, product, and other text suggestions from your screenshots when searching in relevant apps."
While waiting for the Gboard integration, you can take advantage of the improved UI, automatic filters, and upcoming Circle to Search integration to manage your screenshots more effectively.
Optimizing Your Pixel Screenshots Experience
Here are some additional tips for getting the most out of Pixel Screenshots:
- Capture Specific Areas: Utilize the volume down and power button combination to capture the entire screen. Alternatively, hold down the power button and tap "Screenshot" to capture only the currently displayed area.
- Edit and Annotate: Edit your screenshots directly within the app using the built-in editing tools. You can crop, rotate, and add text or drawings to highlight specific details.
- Share with Ease: Share your screenshots with friends or colleagues through various messaging apps or social media platforms directly from the Pixel Screenshots app.
- Organize with Folders: Create custom folders within the app to categorize your screenshots for easier organization.
By utilizing these features and the December 2024 update's improvements, Pixel Screenshots can become a valuable tool for managing and leveraging visual information captured on your Pixel phone.
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