Android 10 is already available for Google’s Pixel series of smartphones, OnePlus’ 7 series and a small number of other handsets. But it’s missing one key feature.
When it formally unveiled Android 10 at its I/O developer conference back in May, Google showed off a nifty new for the operating system called Live Caption.
As the name suggests, Live Caption automatically displays subtitles for any media that is being consumed on a device. Not only is it a great feature for those that are deaf or hard of hearing, but it’s also incredibly convenient for those unfortunately instances you’ve forgotten to bring your headphones on a commute or long journey.
Explaining the feature, Google said: “Live Caption automatically captions media playing on users’ devices, from videos to podcasts and audio messages, across any app.
“The machine learning speech models run right on the phone, and no audio stream ever leaves the device.
“With a single tap, Live Caption automatically captions videos, podcasts, and audio messages — even stuff you record yourself. Without ever needing wifi or cell phone data.”
As noted by Google, the Live Caption feature is performed on the phone itself, meaning you don’t even need an internet connection to use it.
In terms of release date, the American tech giant had initially declared Live Caption would arrive for Pixel device “this fall”. However, no precise timing were provided.
However, it seems Google could be gearing up to launch the feature on its newest flagship smartphone, the Pixel 4.
The reliably sharp folks at XDA Developers recently showed off a video of Live Caption running on a Pixel 2 XL. The outlet stated they were able to access the feature via an Android application package (APK) for the Pixel 4 obtained by Nextrift.
Live Caption was demoed in a video posted by XDA Developers editor in chief Mishaal Rahman. He said although the feature made a “few errors here and there” it was pretty good overall at presenting captions for media. The Android 10 tool was shown to work on a variety of apps such as Google Photos, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video.
The fact XDA Developers was able to test the feature using an APK for the Pixel 4 suggests it will indeed debut on the new Google device.
Additionally, the outlet’s video of Live Caption working on a Pixel 2 XL shows it will also be supported by older hardware.
It’s certainly possible Live Caption could debut on the Pixel 4 before arriving for older Google handsets. The American tech giant rolled out its Call Screen feature in a similar manner last year – it debuted on the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL before being delivered to older Pixels.
Google has said it’s working “closely” with its partners to launch Live Caption “broadly on devices running Android 10”. So if the Pixel 4 does in fact launch with it, other mobiles will presumably receive it in the following months.
The American tech giant will reveal the Pixel 4 on October 15. Of course, Express.co.uk will be on hand to let you know if it comes with Live Caption out the box.