We’ve already seen renders of the entire Pixel 11 lineup, which didn’t present any vital adjustments to the upcoming units. Nevertheless, code inside the most recent Android 17 beta seems to trace at a brand new function, which may very well be an enormous throwback to Google’s roots.
Pixel 11 might get a brand new Pixel Glow function
Code inside Android 17 Beta 4, which was launched immediately, explicitly mentions a brand new function referred to as Pixel Glow. This seems to be a brand new {hardware} functionality, which could be very more likely to launch on a minimum of a few of the Pixel 11 smartphones later this 12 months.
The function’s description talks about “refined gentle and colour on the again” of the units. Its purpose is to tell the consumer of essential exercise when the gadget is face down.
Avoiding distractions
The outline additionally means that Google might promote the function as a part of its Digital Wellbeing options. Pixel Glow is meant to assist customers “keep within the second with out shedding contact,” in response to an outline shared by 9to5Google.
The outline of Pixel Glow inside Android 17 Beta 4. | Picture by 9to5Google
One implementation of the function can be to indicate these lights when there’s an incoming name from a favourite contact. Google is stating that customers received’t see Pixel Glow for incoming calls if they’ve flash notifications turned on.
The lights will even activate when utilizing Gemini and should function a instrument to allow “hands-free interactions utilizing visible suggestions.” Customers will have the ability to allow or disable these options individually from the gadget’s settings.
The place will a Pixel glow?
Pixel 11 render. | Picture by Android Headlines
Seeing the function inside Android 17 is a robust indicator that it will likely be accessible on the following Pixel telephones. Nonetheless, the renders of the Pixel 11 telephones didn’t have any noticeable cutout for lights, which raises questions on the place they might go.
One choice may very well be the redesigned Digicam Bar, which has a uniform background on the brand new telephones. That will make the signature Pixel design aspect much more particular.
An alternative choice may very well be the Google brand on the again of the telephones. That would definitely remind some folks of the glowing Apple brand on older MacBooks.
Fan-favorite function returns
Round 2019, Android telephones began coming with very skinny bezels, which prompted producers to kill off the notification LEDs that many, together with me, cherished. I can’t assist however see this Pixel Glow function as a continuation of these beloved lights, and that makes me thrilled.
As cool as always-on shows are, I’ve by no means gotten used to them, so I simply depart the disabled. Having a refined gentle for particular notifications is a killer function for me, and I can’t wait to see Google’s new implementation.
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Ilia, a tech journalist at PhoneArena, has been overlaying the cellular trade since 2011, with expertise at retailers like Forbes Bulgaria. Keen about smartphones, tablets, and shopper tech, he blends deep trade data with a private fascination that started together with his first Nokia and Sony Ericsson units. Initially from Bulgaria and now based mostly in Lima, Peru, Ilia balances his tech obsessions with strolling his canine, coaching on the health club, and slowly mastering Spanish.
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