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The Android 8.1 Developer Preview 2 is officially out now, with factory images of the same now available for compatible Pixel and Nexus devices. And as was being actively speculated, the new update finally contains the requisite code that fires up the Pixel Visual Core coprocessor.
For starters, the Pixel Visual Core coprocessor aids in efficient processing of the image signal to allow for better photography. Developed in collaboration with Intel, the coprocessor uses AI and machine learning tech and is singularly aimed at image processing, thereby promising better photography each time.
Both the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 Xl come with the dedicated image processing chip but have been latent so far. The new update should be able to justify its existence finally, which also means the already excellent cameras on the latest Pixel phones still has room for improvement.
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Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteDevelopers will also be able to make good use of the Pixel Visual Core so that shots taken by even third-party apps will be close to what the default cam is capable of. In other words, all apps will now have a level playing field in delivering HDR+ quality shots with the latest Pixel 2 phones.
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- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro XL; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
Among the other notable inclusion in the Android 8.1 Developer Preview 2 include a Neural networks API which provides for boosting the performance of the device for on-device machine learning. Then there is also a Shared Memory API included in the update, one that caters to a low-end device with up to 1 GB of RAM.
Besides, the latest update also comes with the usual bug fixes too, along with the November security update as well. Additionally, there is also the Android 8.1 system images for Pixel and Nexus devices, one that Google described as ‘near final.’
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- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
The above update is valid for the following devices: Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Pixel C, Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, and Pixel 2 XL.
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How to download the Android 8.1 Developer Preview Update
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- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
One should be a member of the Android Beta program to be eligible for the Developer Preview update. Those who are already part of it should be getting a notification with the option to install the update OTA. Another method to download the update will be to flash the compatible Nexus or Pixel devices by installing the appropriate factory image.
As for the official release of Android 8.1, it should still be a couple of weeks before it makes to the general public.
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Quick Recap
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- Google Pixel 10 is the everyday phone unlike anything else; it has Google Tensor G5, Pixel’s most powerful chip, an incredible camera, and advanced AI - Gemini built in[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- The upgraded triple rear camera system has a new 5x telephoto lens - up to 20x Super Res Zoom for stunning detail from far away; Night Sight takes crisp, clear photos in low-light settings; and Camera Coach helps you snap your best pics[3]
- Pixel 10 is designed - scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and has an IP68 rating for water and dust protection[21]; plus, the Actua display - 3,000-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[4]
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