The May Android feature update introduces a lot of interesting features

The May Android feature update brings exciting changes

Opting out of Google for Android features is automatic. You can go about your day without constantly checking to see if they’ve arrived. Some features of the May edition will launch today. The rest may come later this year. Some will require early access to the trial program, so don’t expect them to appear at the same time. Here’s what to expect:

Edit RCS messages in Google News

You could say this is a long overdue solution as most social media and texting apps already have it. But now you have up to 15 minutes to remove errors or malicious words from RCS conversations before the other party sees them. Still, they’ll know the message has been edited because an “edited” tag will appear below it.

Emoji Kitchen cooks new combinations

Emoji Kitchen is a feature that allows you to combine two or more emojis to create new and unique stickers. You’ll find it on Gboard and other top keyboard apps. More emoji combinations have been added and you can now mix interesting ones like headphones 🎧 and glitter ball 🪩 to make exactly that – glitter ball in headphones.

Instant access point

Instant Hotspot simplifies the process of sharing mobile data on your phone with other devices. Now you don’t have to manually turn on the hotspot. Both devices must be logged into the same Google account and have Cross-device enabled in the settings. Additional devices will detect your Pixel phone’s hotspot and connect with one tap.

Switch devices during Google Meet calls

You can now move the meeting to another device or connect both devices. Previously, you had to disconnect a device from a connection to allow another device to join the connection. This upgrade is convenient for times when you need a bigger screen or better sound. You can transfer the conversation from your phone to your laptop. Just turn on the Cross-Device function in the settings and you will be able to redirect the call to the selected device.

You can create a special widget on the home screen of your phone, as well as watches running Wear OS. The widget contains controls for your favorite smart home devices. You can activate your smart lock or light without fully opening the Google Home app. However, you must be a member of the Google Home Public Preview program to use it. You can join it in the Home app settings menu.

PayPal payments with Wear OS

Residents of the US and Germany can now make payments through their PayPal account in Google Wallet PayPal via Wear OS. In other words, you can use your Pixel Watches at any tap-to-pay station and use funds from your PayPal account instead of your credit/debit card.

Extending the digital car key to more car models

I’d love to try this next feature even though I don’t have a car. Google has already made it possible to start your vehicle using a digital car key. It was available on select models and devices such as Pixel 6 and above, Galaxy S21 series, and other devices running Android 12 and above.

You can configure the digital key using the car manufacturer’s app, email link or car radio. This way you can automatically unlock your car, start it and lock it again when you are nearby. Google has expanded these capabilities to more car models, including the Mini, Mercedes-Benz and Polestar.