Easy-to-miss Google trick on millions of Android phones takes temperature of any object – but four mistakes ruin reading
GOOGLE Pixel fans can use their phones to take temperature readings of objects including their bodies.
The Google Pixel 8 Pro boasts a built-in thermometer application that can measure the temperature of nearly any object.
The technology uses a sensor on the back of the phone, near the camera in the top right corner.
Taking advantage of the feature is as easy as pointing your phone at an object and tapping the screen.
Start by opening the Pixel Thermometer app and selecting “Object Temperature.”
Next, choose the material of the object you’ll be measuring. These options are pre-programmed – some examples are “food,” “beverages,” and “shiny metal.”
Position the sensor around five centimeters from the object for accurate results, though you may have to move closer for smaller objects.
Hit “Tap to measure” and let the tech do its work. The reading should appear onscreen after a few seconds.
Google urges users to exercise caution when measuring the temperature of hot or cold objects.
If you’re taking the reading of something like a warm beverage or boiling water, wait for steam to dissipate before using the app.
It is worth noting that no technology is perfect, and the precision of a reading depends on several factors.
An object’s proximity to higher or lower limits of the temperature range can play a role, as can material selection.
Object size may also influence the reading, as more surface area makes it easier to measure temperature.
The difference in temperature between the object and the sensor itself might impact accuracy.
Readings also depend on emissivity, or how much energy an object radiates.
You can try to minimize errors by using the app’s built-in features.
Material selection, for instance, helps find an object’s emissivity and return more accurate results.
Among the app’s perks is its ability to register body temperature – a feature specially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
All you have to do is hold the phone to your forehead – it will vibrate when in range.
After the device is in position, press the “Tap to measure” button in the center of the screen.
Slowly move the phone across your forehead towards your temple. The app stops taking a reading after 4 seconds.
Google Pixel battery tips – the official guide
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Tip 1: Let the phone close apps you’re not using.
Tip 2: Keep your phone and apps up to date. Applications become more battery efficient with each new iteration, addressing errors and glitches that use unnecessary power.
Tip 3: Turn down the brightness. Save your eyes by turning down the brightness of your phone, while also saving the battery. You can also set your phone to Dark theme, which turns your background to black. It uses less power and relieves some of the strain on your eyes, too.
Tip 4: Know which apps and activities are power hungry. Pixel users should be aware of what activities drain their batteries most. Video calls and gaming are at the top of the list. Users should also shut down apps they have opened but aren’t using.