Google has released an OTA update for Pixel smartphones with several improvements, including bug fixes and a new feature. Google's January update is the first OTA update released in 2023, and it's good to see that the company is actively working to fix the problems users face. Google's previous update was a major feature drop in December 2022, which introduced features like Google One VPN and Clear Calling for Pixel 7 series, and new wallpapers for other Pixel devices.
The January update for Google Pixel devices is available for all models that run on Android 13, which includes the Pixel 4 and newer smartphones. The only feature that the January Pixel update adds is static Spatial Audio, which is available for the Pixel 6 and the Pixel 7 Series. Those who upgrade their phone to the latest software version can use Spatial Audio for movies or videos with "5.1 or higher audio tracks." However, users must listen to audio via headphones or earbuds. To enable Spatial Audio on supported devices, open the Settings app, select 'Sound & vibration,' tap 'Spatial Audio,' and activate the feature.
Google January Update Fixes The Fingerprint Sensor On THE Pixel 6a And Pixel 7
In the update announcement, Google says that Pixel Buds Pro users will get head-tracked Spatial Audio in the coming weeks. Once the feature is available, users can enable it by heading to Settings > Connected Devices > Pixel Buds Pro > Settings and selecting Head Tracking. However, users must place their Pixel phone on a stable surface to use head-tracked Spatial Audio. Head-tracked spatial audio is only available with the Pixel Buds Pro and the newer Pixel smartphones for now. Other leading smartphone companies, like Apple and Samsung, also have Spatial Audio for supported devices and content.
Spatial Audio is the only major new feature, but the latest update brings a slew of bug fixes to help make the Pixel smartphone experience better. The update improves the "fingerprint recognition and response in certain conditions" on the Pixel 6a and the Pixel 7. Since these devices came out, users have complained about the in-display fingerprint sensors on several forums. Hopefully, the update will fix any issues users might have related to the accuracy and response time of the fingerprint scanner. The update also contains fixes for the issues where captured photos appeared distorted upon zooming in and a bug that prevented the display from waking up on the Pixel 7 series.
Google's January update also addresses two Bluetooth-related problems: a bug that prevented some Bluetooth Low Energy devices from pairing and the other that prevented audio from playing on certain headphones or accessories connected with Pixel phones. Last but not least, Google fixed another issue "causing UI to display in landscape layout while the device is held in portrait mode." The Pixel January update will be available for all users in the coming weeks.