Google's latest hits: Files app milestone, YouTube Music update, faster Drive syncs, Fitbit changes, and smarter home control

Hey Pixel fam, this week’s Pixel perfect news kicks off with updates that make your favorite Google apps even better! Whether you’re a file management wiz or a music enthusiast, we’ve got something to get you excited.

The Files by Google app has reached a monumental milestone: 5 billion downloads on the Play Store. That’s a lot of phones decluttered and storage space freed up. We’re attributing this success to the app’s simplicity, AI-powered features, and the fact that it’s completely free, with no hidden costs.

It’s been a wild ride since its humble beginnings almost eight years ago. Originally launched as Files: Go, it transformed into Files by Google in 2018, becoming the go-to app for keeping your digital life tidy and clutter-free.

From simple beginnings, Files by Google has evolved into a powerhouse of functionality. Need to free up space? Done. Want to quickly delete duplicates? Easy. Whether you’re hunting for that lost PDF or banishing unused apps, Files by Google has got your back.

YouTube Music is kicking off 2025 with a fresh update that makes finding your favorite jams even easier. Say hello to the Top Songs carousel, now featured on artist pages. This snazzy new design lets you scroll through the top hits with a flick of your finger.

You can now see four songs per load, with up to 20 tracks over five pages. Want to dive in and enjoy all the hits? Just tap the “Play all” button and let the music play. Whether you’re an Android or iOS user, this update is rolling out widely and is perfect for those quick music discovery sessions.

Good news for all you multitaskers out there — Google Drive for desktop is now faster than ever thanks to differential uploads. This nifty feature means only the parts of a file that change will be uploaded, speeding up those massive file syncs. No more waiting around for your edits to upload; it’s almost instant gratification.

Google Drive has also introduced Gemini to its overlay file previewer for PDFs. This lets you switch between multiple files seamlessly and even summarize or transform content with a click. Whether you’re a business user or just someone who loves staying organized, these updates are sure to boost your productivity.

The Fitbit app has made a puzzling move by removing the ability to cast workout videos to TVs. This feature was a favorite for many, making it easy to follow along with workout plans on the big screen. Now, it’s gone.

While Fitbit hasn’t given a clear reason for this change, it’s certainly a step back for those who loved the convenience. What’s next for Fitbit? Only time will tell. But for now, it’s time to get creative with your workout setups.

Google has just upped the game with local smart home control for your Matter-enabled devices. Thanks to the Home Runtime integration, devices like Google TV, Nest gadgets, and even some LG TVs can now manage your smart home without an internet connection. This means faster, more reliable, and private control of your smart devices.

This new feature promises to make your smart home experience smoother and more intuitive. Whether you’re turning on lights, adjusting the thermostat, or checking security cameras, it’s all about giving you peace of mind and a little extra convenience.

There you have it! From milestone achievements to exciting new features, Google is making waves in the tech world. Stay tuned for more updates and keep exploring the endless possibilities with your favorite Google apps and devices.