Google has recently rolled out the Android Oreo 8.1 Developer Preview for all Google Pixel and Nexus users. The first major update to Nougat version's successor is expected to be released publicly in the coming weeks, although the beta update gives the people an idea on the latest OS features. One of the new useful services by Android 8.1 update is "SMS Connect," allowing people to reply to messages sent to their Android devices while using Chrome OS on a laptop.
As reported by NDTV, Google has started to narrow down the limitations separating the Chromebook laptops and Android devices by introducing "SMS Connect." Specifically, the Android Oreo 8.1 Developer Preview has a hidden feature known as "SMSConnectPrebuilt." While it is not a complete app, tapping on it will take the user to "SMS Connect" service's setup screen. The setup will let the users know that all text messages directed to their Android devices can also be received in their Chromebook.
As the setup screen is done with processing, users can now access all messages from their smartphones running the Android Oreo 8.1 version on their Chromebook. They can read the messages and send a reply, regardless of what device they are using. To note, Apple also has the same messaging service, where the Continuity feature can be set to sync messages, calls, and files between macOS and iOS devices.
Aside from "SMS Connect," the Android Oreo 8.1 update also brings another important feature that will restore all deleted data from a Google account upon skipping the option during the initial device setup. While the data retrieval service is not yet officially announced, a beta tester known as Henry Roggy discovered the new feature while accessing his Google+ account. According to GSMArena, users can go to the Settings page for them to finish the phone setup that they skipped. By tapping on "Finish Setup," they can proceed with the skipped steps, including the restoration of deleted data from their Gmail account.
