Google’s Pixel Screenshots app is getting an update that will move it from using on-device AI model to leveraging cloud processing. The move is a big change for the app, which was promoted as using on-device models for privacy when it launched.
According to 9to5Google, the Pixel Screenshot app version 1.26.134.11 (versus 1.25.367.13) includes the change in the settings. The app no longer mentions on-device, and has been updated with lines like “Search your screenshots with AI” and “Data used by Screenshots is protected in a secure, isolated environment on your device or in the cloud.”
The secure, isolated environment mentioned is a reference to Private AI Compute, which will bring your AI experience to the cloud while keeping your data private. Google says that no one, not even Google itself, can access data processed via Private AI Compute.
Other Pixel features like Magic Cue and Recorder have also swapped from on-device AI to cloud processing. This change has reportedly improved both of these features, such as with timely suggestions for Magic Cue. (Anecdotally, MobileSyrup editor-in-chief Jon Lamont noted in January that Magic Cue was starting to actually work as promised, which could be a result of the change from on-device processing.)
Screenshots that leverage cloud-based AI are supposed to help you get even more from your screenshots, but Google didn’t include any specific details.
Pixel Screenshots 1.26.134.11 is still rolling out. While it will leverage cloud-based AI, Pixel Screenshots reportedly still uses some on-device AI, as it can still process a screenshot if your phone isn’t connected to the internet.
Source: 9to5Google
