Google has announced a slew of updates for its Pixel phones, watches, and Android devices as part of its Pixel Drop program for March. The most notable features include AI-powered scam detection, better categorization in the screenshot app, menstrual tracking on the Pixel Watch 3, and the ability to share live locations with friends through the Find My Devices app.

The scam detection feature, currently in beta, uses Google's Gemini Nano model to detect potential scams in calls and messages. The company has been testing two different models, Gemini Nano and on-device machine learning, and has determined that Gemini Nano is the most effective approach. The feature processes conversations on the device and can warn users of potential scams in real-time.

In addition to scam detection, the March update brings several other features to Pixel phones. Users can now add multiple external cameras to the Pixel 9 series, including GoPro or other Pixel phone cameras, to enhance streaming capabilities. The Pixel Studio app has also been updated to generate images of people through text prompts, supporting English, Japanese, and German languages.

The screenshot app has been revamped to automatically suggest screenshots to be added to collections based on content. The app is now also available for work profiles on Pixel 9 devices. Furthermore, Pixel Fold users can utilize the dual screen feature to preview recordings on the outer screen, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's outer screen gets the "Add Me" feature, which uses AI to place the person taking the photo in a group photo.

Other updates include satellite messaging support for Pixel 9 users on Verizon or T-Mobile networks, with expanded availability in Canada, EMEA, Hawaii, and Alaska. Users can also transfer and transcribe recordings from other devices using the recorder app.

Google's Gemini Live multimodal capabilities have been updated for Pixel 6 and newer devices, as well as Pixel Fold devices, allowing users to add images, files, and YouTube videos while using Gemini Live. The company is also introducing multilingual conversations with Gemini Live, supporting over 45 languages. Video and screen sharing support for Gemini Live is expected to arrive within a few weeks.

In addition to Pixel-specific updates, Google is bringing new features to Android devices. The company is focusing on scam detection, using AI to identify patterns in messages and providing real-time warnings to users. The Find My Devices App has been updated to allow users to share their live location with friends and family.

Other Android updates include a new voice toolbar for Gboard, making dictation easier, and the ability to play games like Farm Heroes Saga and Candy Crush Soda Saga on Android Auto when the car is parked. A shopping insights feature has been added to Chrome on Android, enabling users to view price histories, track price drops, and compare prices across different sites.

Pixel Watch users will also receive updates, including clearance from the U.S. FDA for the loss-of-pulse feature on the Pixel Watch 3, which automatically contacts emergency services in cases of cardiac arrest, respiratory or circulatory failure, overdose, or poisoning. The Pixel Watch 3 will also get on-device menstrual tracking, while the Pixel Watch 2 will receive auto bedtime support. All Pixel Watches will see improved step tracking and new audio controls for common interactions.

Overall, Google's Pixel Drop updates demonstrate the company's commitment to enhancing user experience and safety across its range of devices. With AI-powered scam detection, improved features, and expanded capabilities, these updates are expected to have a significant impact on the Android ecosystem.