Despite being announced last week, most people are just now getting their new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro phones delivered. Now that the phones are officially out, Google has shared the code and directions to build their Android version yourself. We looked through the code to see if we missed any features that didn’t end up on the phones. It turns out Google got rid of two small camera tools and one important feature for getting work done before shipping the Pixels.
The camera functions they removed were one for live translations of text and another for measuring items. We still don’t know exactly why these features weren’t finished in time.
But the biggest thing Google cut was extensive integration with their smart home tech like Nest displays and speakers. Originally, Pixel owners would be able to control Home devices with special gestures on their phone screens. You’d simply swipe left or right to change the lighting, temperature or play music. At the last second, Google ditched this handier way to command smart home gadgets.
It’s a shame customers won’t get to try out these capabilities. While minor on their own, together they showed potential to make the Pixel line even more helpful at home and on the go. Maybe with future software updates, Google can bring back some of what was left on the cutting room floor. For now, Pixel 8 buyers will have to make do without these missing pieces.
