Google adds fancy new Gemini animation in Android 16 beta, but not everyone can see it

Gemini

Last week, Google dropped the Android 16 QPR 1 Beta 2 update for the latest Pixel smartphones, which included several new enhancements such as upgraded desktop mode, flexible window tiling, and more. However, one of the changes that went under the radar, but is included in the update, is a new launch animation for Gemini, the company’s artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot.

New Gemini launch animation introduced with the latest Android 16 update

As pointed out by 9to5Google, a new launch animation for Gemini has been spotted in the Android 16 Beta QPR1 Beta 2 update. This can be invoked by pressing and holding the power button, and also generating a haptic feedback. It brings a screen pull-back effect, which is streamlined and smooth, with the new overlay sliding up. The new effect mimics the shrinking of the display borders.

However, as per the report, this new Gemini effect is currently available to only a handful of Pixel devices, with a broader rollout expected soon. Moreover, some users previously reported not being able to experience the vibration, which could be a mere bug, and not an intended design or hardware change.

In addition to this new launch animation for the Gemini, the latest Android 16 QPR1 beta update includes a redesigned Pixel Launcher search bar with AI mode. However, this update still doesn't support Google's much-awaited Material You Expressive UI revamp, which is expected to be unveiled in September.