With the launch of Android 16 QPR1, Google also announced a September 2025 Pixel Feature Drop. Material 3 Expressive is the main addition, but there’s a new feature for the Pixel Watch.
Google says this “comprehensive UI update” will “make your Pixel feel even more personal and premium.” Specific highlights include:
- “Live effects to add fun animations to your lock screen’s wallpaper, such as adding shapes and weather effects.”
- “Enjoy a sleek redesign for your most-used Quick Settings.”
- “…you can customize your Phone by Google experience for calling contacts that’s unique to your personal style.” More
Meanwhile, the Pixel Watch will automatically display walking or biking navigation that’s started on your phone.
With this update, there’s no need to tap your watch or pull out your phone — enjoy automatic, hands-free guidance from your wrist
Google also reiterated that Pixel Buds Pro 2 is getting Adaptive Audio to “intelligently adjust to your surroundings” while listening to music or podcasts. Gemini can now focus on your voice even if the TV is on or if there are people around you. There’s also Loud Noise Protection and nod/shake head gestures. This update will be available “later this month.”
The September 2025 Pixel Feature Drop is rolling out over the coming weeks.
As part of the “New on Android” series, the Pixel 8 and newer add support for LE Audio Auracast. This lets you listen to broadcasts at Auracast-enabled venues, like airports. Google announced that it’s “expanding Android’s LE Audio capabilities to headphones from Sony.”
Additionally, Auracast lets you pair a second pair of LE Audio Bluetooth headphones to your phone. LE Audio also allows group sharing via Fast Pair prompt or QR code scanning.
Meanwhile, Google is expanding Gboard’s AI-powered Writing Tools after announcing for the Pixel 10. Look for the pencil with sparkle icon that brings up a carousel with Proofread, Rephrase, Professional, Friendly, Emojify, Elaborate, and Shorten options. You will get a trio of swipeable cards above with various options. Google is also highlighting the Emoji Kitchen redesign, which adds a “Favorite” shortcut.
Quick Share is getting a redesign. This fullscreen interface has two tabs in the bottom bar: Receive and Send. This more guided experience lets you “Select files to share” and then the devices you want to send to. Google touts a new progress indicator that “gives you live updates, showing you what percentage of the file has been transferred.”
Finally, there’s the return of the Androidify.
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