Do we still recommend the Pixel 4? Most certainly

Google unveiled the Pixel 4 back in October and made a big song and dance about its new camera and swathe of exclusive software features. While the Pixel 4 remains the only Google smartphone to come with more than one rear camera (although it still doesn’t have the infinitely more interesting ultra wide-angle camera, opting for a 2x telephoto instead) many of the exclusive software perks have been taken away, including Live Caption, Astrophotography and the firm’s in-house Recorder app.

That's because since the launch of the Pixel 4 though, Google has gradually started to migrate exclusive Pixel 4 features to the likes of the Pixel 3, Pixel 3a and even its 2017 Pixel 2. While the Mountain View company certainly deserves props for issuing new features to its older handsets... it comes at the cost of differentiating the Pixel 4 from its predecessors. At launch, the Pixel 4’s gorgeously smooth 90Hz display, improved camera system and nifty array of software tricks were arguably enough to tempt Android enthusiasts into upgrading from their Pixel 2, or even Pixel 3. But that’s certainly not the case anymore. Google has just announced its truly impressive Recorder app is now available for the Pixel 3, Pixel 3a and Pixel 2. That’s a big deal. Why is this recorder app so special? Well, in addition to recording, it’s also smart enough to transcribe audio, too.


The Google Pixel 4's recorder app is coming to older Pixels

The Google Pixel 4 remains the only Pixel to come with multiple cameras on its rear

Express.co.uk has tested the app thoroughly during our time with the Pixel 4 and can confirm it works excellently. Admittedly, it does have trouble transcribing when multiple people are speaking at once, but if you’re engaging with someone mano-a-mano you’re all set. By far the app’s best feature is the fact it doesn’t rely on an internet connection to work – all the intricate processing is done on-device. The latest announcement from Google means since the Pixel 4’s launch, the Recorder app, Live Caption and Astrophotography are all available on older handsets. That means the firm’s newest smartphone stands out only for its 90Hz display, secondary telephoto camera and upgraded Assistant, the latter of which is expected to come to older Pixels down the line.

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