Google is loading up its Pixel lineup with new features, headlined by the arrival of Material 3 Expressive on Pixel 6 and newer devices. Alongside that, Pixel owners are also getting smarter audio, upgraded AI writing tools, and even custom Android bots.
Material 3 Expressive adds flair to the Pixel experience
Material 3 Expressive starts rolling out today to Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and newer models, plus the Pixel Tablet. The update gives users new ways to personalize their devices, think animated lock screen wallpapers and custom contact visuals that show off your style.
Live effects bring subtle motion to your lock screen, while calling cards can now be tailored per contact. It’s all designed to make your Pixel feel less like a phone and more like your own.
Pixel devices gain smarter audio and wearables support
The new update brings several fresh features to Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Watch owners. Here’s what’s new:
- Adaptive Audio auto-tunes your earbuds to match your surroundings, so you’re aware without missing a beat
- Head gestures let you answer or reject calls, just nod or shake your head
- Talk to Gemini AI directly through your buds in noisy spaces
- Google Maps on Pixel Watch now syncs walking or biking directions straight from your phone
AI writing tools and audio sharing expand Android’s edge
Google’s built-in keyboard Gboard is getting a significant AI boost. You can now tweak the tone of your writing more formal, more expressive, or more concise and fix grammar or spelling with one tap. Best of all, it all runs locally on your device for better privacy.
On the entertainment side, audio sharing is getting more social. Android now supports:
- Dual Bluetooth LE Audio headphones on one phone
- Private broadcasts via QR codes so groups can sync up
- Silent discos or shared playlists, no tangled wires needed
This gives users new ways to connect without sharing earbuds or noise.
Material 3 Expressive update leads a feature-packed release
Beyond visuals and sound, Google is launching Androidify: a quirky tool that lets you build your own Android bot using a selfie or a text prompt. Powered by Gemini 2.5 Flash and Imagen (with some help from Veo 3 for animation), your bot gets its own caption and character.
Rounding things out is a redesigned Quick Share interface with faster previews, a smoother send/receive toggle, and live progress tracking.
Google’s aiming to make Android feel less like a system and more like a playground. With Material 3 Expressive front and center, Pixel users are getting first dibs on the fun.
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