Google plans to update its Android and introduce a ‘cross-sharing’ device feature . Reportedly, Google aims to bring in ‘call casting’ and ‘Instant hotspot’ features.
It is expected that the new feature is similar to one of Apple’s features named Handoff. Apple has introduced this feature for its iOS device users since 2014.
Google introduces ‘cross-device’ features
According to 9to5 Google, the Cross-device features will be available through an update. After the update you can see a cross-device option in the device settings. As of now the feature is available on Android devices running versions 24.28.34 on the Google Play services.
How to access ‘Cross-device’ feature
The new feature is currently in beta and only supports devices running on Android 11 or newer operating systems. It is expected to roll out widely soon. So how to access the new update. You just need to follow the simple steps:
- First go to Settings, then to Google
- Then click on Devices & sharing
- Next you will get a option ‘ Cross-device services’
Note that the set-up process involves creating your “device group” by enabling these preferences on your signed in devices.
Decoding ‘Call casting’ and ‘Internet sharing’
Currently Google’s update only includes ‘Call casting’ and ‘Internet sharing.’ So how do these features improve your experience? Given below are the features of the two updates:
Call casting: Now you can move calls between this device and other nearby devices signed in to your Google Account. However, ‘Call casting’ is only available for certain apps. Some data about your devices might be shared with those apps when you switch devices. In addition to this when turned on, your other devices can cast video calls to the device that you’re using. Notably, at the moment, this is just Google Meet, with the existing Cast brand being reused. There will be a Cast icon to move a video call between your Android phone, tablet, or desktop browser.
Internet sharing: With this update you can share hotspots instantly. The Instant hotspot allows you to automatically share hotspot access with your own devices. Internet sharing works with Chromebooks and Android devices signed in to your Google Account. Bluetooth and device location need to be on to share internet, 9to5Google concluded.
Furthermore, Google also introduced an ‘edit option’ with Google message. With Google Messages you can say goodbye to the *asterisk and edit messages after they’re sent. To use this feature just follow the steps given below:
- Tap and hold a sent RCS message
- Then you can edit typos, add missing words or clarify what you mean
- Note you can edit the text up to 15 minutes after a message is sent.
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