The Pixel and Pixel 2 are getting new Augmented Reality (AR) stickers - 3D objects and characters - that offer a new experience to users letting them express themselves with virtual characters and emojis that come to life. Users can choose from a plethora of AR stickers to create their own stories. This feature works right from the camera app and will be exclusive to the Pixel and Pixel 2. The new feature comes bundled with AR stickers from Star Wars and Stranger Things.
Google says that more bundles will be released during changing seasons, holidays, and big pop culture events. "Users can team up with "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" characters like BB-8 and R2-D2, or even stage fun moments with Eleven, the Demogorgon, and other characters from Netflix's 'Stranger Things'. Or use Foodmoji stickers to make it clear that you're feeling hungry, 3D Text for when you really want to title your life or shoot a celebratory video at a New Year's party complete with animated AR balloons, cake, and champagne," the company said in a statement announcing the new features.
The Verge notes that only Pixel phones with Android 8.1 and above will see this feature. Google just started rolling out the latest update got to play around with the new feature. To use the stickers - after making sure your Pixel is on the latest software - you will need to open the Google camera app, open the left navigation menu, and select 'AR Stickers' from the camera modes.
You will then see a row of available characters on the bottom. You can drag them onto the camera feed and place them wherever you wish. Google seems to be pushing augmented reality to users at a time when Apple's latest mobile operating system, iOS 11, is popularising the use of AR-based apps. The new ARKit has empowered iPhone users to take advantage of the dozens of apps available on the App Store.
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