While we wait to learn more about Android 13, Google continues to release new features to its platform under the same regular cadence that it has been using for the past few years. Today, the company announced a set of updates around GBoard stickers, Play Store and accessibility apps like Lookout and Sound Amplifier.
First, Google brings custom text stickers, as it previously launched on Pixel phones, to all Android devices. The feature allows you to convert English words to images, so if you type “Hi Ma” in GBoard and press the button for custom stickers in the suggested emoji row, you will see some auto-generated graphics with that text in different designs. Your language must be set to US English for this to work until further notice.
The company is also adding more than 1,600 new Emoji Kitchen combinations so you can create new hybrid emoticons by pressing two symbols in a row. It also adds rainbow-themed stickers so users can share their Pride celebrations.
Sound Amplifier is an Android app that makes sounds around you louder, which can be useful for people with hearing loss. “Today’s update brings improved background noise reduction,” according to Google, along with “faster and more accurate sound and a revamped, easier-to-see user interface.”
Also relevant for accessibility is the Lookout app, which uses the device’s camera to identify and describe objects around the user. It can read words on signs or tell you if, for example. is a table at two o’clock so you can avoid going into it. Today, Google is adding a new image mode that uses its “latest machine learning model for image comprehension” and can describe an image even if you opened it from “almost any app”. The company also updated the Text, Documents, Food Label, and Explore modes to make the app more accurate. Plus, Lookout now works offline so you can use it without internet connection.
Finally, those who have accrued Google Play Points can use them to get items in the app without leaving their games or apps. You can choose to pay for things solely with Play Points or a mix of money and points. This feature will be launched in the coming weeks in the countries where Play Points are available. In the meantime, you can update your other apps like Lookout and GBoard to see the new tools announced today.
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