Google Pixel Drop adds on-device AI for Gboard and Audio Sharing

Google on Wednesday rolled out a package of Android updates as part of its September 2025 Pixel Drop, introducing AI writing tools for Gboard, expanded emoji capabilities, new audio-sharing options and a redesigned Quick Share feature across Pixel and other Android devices. The company said the changes begin rolling out to supported Pixel phones running Android 16 starting today, with a phased release over the coming week depending on carrier and device.

The headline addition is built-in AI for Gboard that uses Gemini to proofread, rephrase, add emoji and adjust tone. Google said users will be able to make a message more formal, expressive or concise, and run spelling and grammar checks, all without sending text to the cloud. "Everything happens on device," the company said, framing on-device processing as a privacy safeguard.

Emoji Kitchen, the sticker-mashup feature, is getting a browse function and expanded suggestions. Users can now see available remixes when they enter a single emoji, combine multiple emojis for additional creative suggestions and favorite custom sticker combinations for later use, according to Google.

Audio sharing is receiving several upgrades aimed at...