# Google’s Updated Weather Application for Pixel Devices: AI Summaries, Yet No Frog
Google has historically been recognized for its aim to “organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.” Nonetheless, Android users have frequently found themselves without a comprehensive weather application, an unexpected gap considering the significance of weather updates in day-to-day activities. Although Android devices incorporated weather widgets and fundamental weather details, they often fell short in depth and functionality compared to Apple’s weather app, which featured the widely acclaimed Dark Sky service.
With the introduction of Android 15 and the Pixel 6 and later models, Google has finally taken steps to remedy this oversight by launching a dedicated weather app simply called “Weather.” Debuting alongside the Pixel 9 series, this app offers a variety of features, including AI-generated weather summaries, customizable layouts, and real-time precipitation predictions. However, for enthusiasts of the classic Google Weather Frog, there’s some discouraging news: the cherished frog is noticeably absent in this latest version.
## A Long-Expected Weather Application
For years, Android users depended on a basic weather widget displaying vital weather information, usually featuring a cheerful frog to depict the current conditions. This frog became a beloved character, even making its way into one of Google’s New Year’s doodles. Despite its popularity, the widget struggled to compete with Apple’s weather app, which gained popularity after acquiring Dark Sky, known for its minute-by-minute precipitation forecasts. After Apple discontinued Dark Sky’s Android version, countless Android users were left on the lookout for a suitable alternative.
Google’s new Weather application seeks to bridge this gap. Available to Pixel 6 and modern devices operating on Android 15, the app provides a richer and more personalized weather experience. Although it lacks the playful frog, it introduces innovative features like AI-driven weather reports.
## AI-Driven Weather Summaries
A standout aspect of the new Weather application is its AI-driven weather summaries. These summaries offer a brief and familiar snapshot of the day’s weather, giving recommendations like “Cold and rainy day, grab your umbrella and secure your hat!” The AI-generated summaries aim to be informative yet conversational, making it easier for users to grasp the weather at a glance.
Nevertheless, these AI summaries come with constraints. Currently, the app is pending an update to “Gemini Nano,” which could enhance the AI-generated content. Until that arrives, users will have to utilize the existing version of the summaries.
## Customization Features
One of the most attractive features of the new Weather application is its customization possibilities. Users can adjust the order of the data shown on their weather screen, allowing them to highlight the information they consider most important. For instance, you can elevate the UV index, humidity, sunrise/sunset times, and wind conditions in the display.
That said, there are some trade-offs. The app’s data widgets are substantial, requiring users to scroll to view the entire day’s weather details. Furthermore, certain elements, such as the AI summary and the 10-day forecast, remain fixed at the top of the screen and cannot be rearranged. While this may be disappointing for some users, the ability to customize other facets of the app is a welcomed enhancement.
## Real-Time Precipitation Predictions
The Weather application also features real-time precipitation forecasts, a function that was greatly missed after the discontinuation of Dark Sky on Android. The app offers “Nowcasting” precipitation forecasts, such as “Rain will continue for 2 hours” or “Light rain expected in 10 minutes.” This feature is especially beneficial for individuals who need to arrange their day around shifting weather patterns.
Alongside precipitation forecasts, the app features weather radar specific to your location, allowing you to observe the movement of weather systems in real time. This capability is particularly useful for monitoring storms or other significant weather occurrences.
## Absent Features and User Feedback
While the new Weather application offers various enhancements, it is not devoid of drawbacks. One notable omission is pollen data, which is only provided in select countries like the UK, Germany, France, and Italy. For users in other regions, this could be a considerable disadvantage, particularly for those with allergies.
Another area of concern is the app’s integration with other Google services. For instance, the “At a Glance” widget on Pixel devices still directs users to the weather summary within the Google app instead of the new Weather application. Additionally, users are unable to view the weather for a location without adding it to their saved locations list, a feature that has frustrated many.
Perhaps the most significant grievance is that the app does not show up in the app lists on some phones, restricting access to it solely as a widget. This has caused confusion among users who anticipate using the app like other standalone apps on their devices.
## No Frog, No Enjoyment?
For numerous users,
