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Google Pixel Drop brings Material 3 Expressive, Pixel Buds Pro 2 features, and more
Google has started rolling out its latest Pixel Drop, adding a wide set of new features to Pixel phones, Pixel Buds, and the Pixel Watch lineup. The highlight of this update is the arrival of Material 3 Expressive, a major interface refresh that was first introduced on the Pixel 10 series. Alongside, the update adds new smart audio controls, hands-free gestures, and improved navigation tools. Here are the five key takeaways.
1/5
Material 3 Expressive for Pixel 6 and newer
The Material 3 Expressive design language, first seen on the newly launched Pixel 10 phones, is now expanding to Pixel 6 and later devices as well as the Pixel Tablet. The update delivers smoother interactions and redesigned Quick Settings for quicker access. Users can also personalize lock screens with Live effects, which introduce animated shapes and weather visuals on wallpapers. The Phone by Google app is getting more customisation options too, allowing contacts and calling experiences to reflect a user’s personal style.⸻
The Material 3 Expressive design language, first seen on the newly launched Pixel 10 phones, is now expanding to Pixel 6 and later devices as well as the Pixel Tablet. The update delivers smoother interactions and redesigned Quick Settings for quicker access. Users can also personalize lock screens with Live effects, which introduce animated shapes and weather visuals on wallpapers. The Phone by Google app is getting more customisation options too, allowing contacts and calling experiences to reflect a user’s personal style.⸻
2/5
Adaptive Audio and Loud Noise Protection for Pixel Buds Pro 2
Later this month, Pixel Buds Pro 2 will gain Adaptive Audio, a feature that dynamically adjusts sound levels based on the user’s surroundings, helping them remain aware without losing listening quality. A new Loud Noise Protection mode will also be available to protect hearing in noisy environments. These updates expand the Buds’ utility for daily commuting and long listening sessions.
Later this month, Pixel Buds Pro 2 will gain Adaptive Audio, a feature that dynamically adjusts sound levels based on the user’s surroundings, helping them remain aware without losing listening quality. A new Loud Noise Protection mode will also be available to protect hearing in noisy environments. These updates expand the Buds’ utility for daily commuting and long listening sessions.
3/5
Smarter AI interactions with Gemini
Pixel Buds Pro 2 will also allow users to have clear conversations with Google’s Gemini assistant, even in environments with background noise like a TV or group chatter. Hands-free gestures are part of the update too — users can simply nod to accept a call or shake their head to dismiss a message, avoiding the need to reach for their phone.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 will also allow users to have clear conversations with Google’s Gemini assistant, even in environments with background noise like a TV or group chatter. Hands-free gestures are part of the update too — users can simply nod to accept a call or shake their head to dismiss a message, avoiding the need to reach for their phone.
4/5
Automatic navigation on Pixel Watch
Google Maps navigation on the Pixel Watch is becoming more seamless. Users who start walking or biking navigation on their phone will now see directions automatically displayed on their smartwatch without extra steps. This feature eliminates the need to repeatedly unlock a phone or tap the watch, making it especially useful when exploring new areas.
Google Maps navigation on the Pixel Watch is becoming more seamless. Users who start walking or biking navigation on their phone will now see directions automatically displayed on their smartwatch without extra steps. This feature eliminates the need to repeatedly unlock a phone or tap the watch, making it especially useful when exploring new areas.
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Rollout schedule and availability
The Pixel Drop update has started rolling out and will continue over the coming weeks, depending on device type and carrier. Pixel 6 and newer devices, the Pixel Tablet, Pixel Buds Pro 2, and Pixel Watch owners will all benefit from the changes, though certain features — such as Adaptive Audio — will arrive slightly later in September.
The Pixel Drop update has started rolling out and will continue over the coming weeks, depending on device type and carrier. Pixel 6 and newer devices, the Pixel Tablet, Pixel Buds Pro 2, and Pixel Watch owners will all benefit from the changes, though certain features — such as Adaptive Audio — will arrive slightly later in September.
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