Google had the annual developers’ conference May7-9. While most updates are geared towards developers and engineers about Google and Android’s updates, every year, this becomes a key event with some relevant news to the consumer. This year, many updates were centered around: Connectivity and XR.
A primary example of connecting to the “real world” is the Google Lens. Not only is the image recognition technology even more refined, but Lens is using data and features from Google Maps to tackle the food industry. You can point the camera at a menu, and Lens will populate reviews, photos from Google Maps, suggest specific items, and even calculate tip and split the bill.
This is not only a great way to partner as a QSR brand and highlight LTO menus once paid media opportunities open, but an even bigger opportunity to incorporate AR technology. XR is only as strong as the accuracy of reading what’s beyond the screen and providing a beneficial experience. Google aims to do exactly that by focusing on helping the consumer, rather than highlighting it purely as an enjoyable experience.
Other updates from the I/O 19 include:
- Nest Hub now includes a camera: performing facial recognition to cater to different members of the family
- Live Caption to all videos including camera roll, in-app, on web, even video chats
- Incognito mode on Google Maps
- Google Go, a search app that helps read out loud real-life texts for those who are illiterate or visually impaired
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