If you have a Pixel phone like the Google Pixel 8, you'll receive additional software updates on top of the usual Android updates, and we have some clues about what could happen in the next Pixel feature drop.
According to a detailed analysis of the latest Android beta code by Android Central, it looks like some useful tweaks and additions are on the way to the Pixel phones, covering everything from Bluetooth to screen recording.
In terms of Bluetooth, you'll apparently be able to tap the Quick Settings tile to quickly switch between Bluetooth devices, rather than having to dig into Settings. Speaking of Quick Settings tiles, you'll also be able to share Wi-Fi login details with others simply by tapping the Internet option.
When it comes to user privacy, it looks like the upcoming Pixel drop will make it easier to see which apps are currently using the microphone and camera, and quickly disconnect any apps you don't want accessing these parts of your phone. . .
Notifications and updates
Other changes concern notifications – it looks like you'll be given the option to hide notifications while mirroring your screen or recording something happening on the screen, which is good news if you do this regularly.
According to the report, the updates will be installed more quickly after the software update is rolled out. Android updates already happen in the background to minimize user interruptions, but this can be a fairly slow process; Thanks to some technical tricks, downloading and installation should be faster in the future.
Other changes that are apparently on the way (unless Google changes its mind) include a search box in the taskbar, small updates to the way battery management is handled, and more information about the on-screen clock weather blocking.
As Android Central points out, Google doesn't explicitly mention all the new features in a Pixel release, so it's important to stay on top of what's coming so you don't miss anything. The update is expected to roll out in May.
