A major update is coming to Android, and it promises, among other things, to warn users about leaked passwords. This is a feature that already exists, for example, in Chrome, but added at the system level in the OS will make life easier for all those who do not use the search giant's official browser.

Google's latest news has been revealed on the company blog today (23/02) and don't worry: they will be implemented before Android 12. The new password management, which checks whether your credentials have been published in databases consulted by the company, will even arrive for Android 9 Pie at some point. When using an application for which Google has saved your passwords, a pop-up window may appear warning you about the danger of keeping your current credentials. From this interface, you will also be able to go directly to the password manager, which will present an overview of secure and exposed passwords.

Message scheduling and accessibility

Additionally, it will be possible to schedule the sending of text messages. Some third-party apps already implement the function, but having the feature natively is interesting for the vast majority. With the updated app on the Play Store, the user can hold down the send button to access additional options, allowing them to add the SMS to a queue to be released at a specific time.

Another new feature for Pixel and Samsung Galaxy smartphones (with One UI 3) is the arrival of new gesture features for TalkBack. The accessibility tool has reached version 9.1, now available on the Play Store, with new options involving gestures with two or more fingers. Gesture customization can be assigned to 25 voice response options, now including, for example, reading only headlines, word by word, or even character by character. In addition, the braille keyboard has been updated to work with Spanish and Arabic.

Maps in the dark, and doing more with voice

Showing that this is an update for Android that goes far beyond warning users about leaked passwords, Google has also brought a dark theme to Maps. Many apps in the search engine company's suite already had this option, such as Gmail. As always, the company's software updates involve gradual release, so those interested in the dark theme for the GPS navigation service should keep an eye out for the app's settings in the coming days.

Likewise, Google Assistant is also getting some new features. When users set up their phones to receive personalized results on the lock screen, the service will allow them to do more things with just their voice. something very popular nowadays in Brazil. For example, the user can ask for a Spotify playlist to be played, or request information about the weather, set an alarm, and more.

Android Auto

Last but not least, Android Auto is getting a powerful update that will allow for multi-window use on larger displays. As a whole, the automotive system now has greater integration with Google Assistant, allowing access to functions such as quizzes and other spoken games, as well as obtaining useful information on the road using your voice, such as climate or car air conditioning settings.

Cars compatible with Android Auto will also benefit from new wallpapers and a new shortcut to contacts on the app's home screen, which will receive this update on devices running Android 6 Marshmallow or higher. This update will be released in the coming days.

So, even before launching Android 12, Google is delivering an interesting feature update that includes alerts for leaked passwords, more comfort for the maps app, improved accessibility, new options for those who like voice technology, and not forgetting its automotive system. In any case, it is worth remembering that the next version of the OS will arrive sometime in the second half of the year, possibly with a new global interface.