Android Central’s Editor’s Desk serves as a weekly exploration of the latest developments and trends within the Android and mobile technology landscape. Recently, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the Pixel 10, and I found much to appreciate, particularly in its camera capabilities and the innovative magnetic Qi2 charging feature. However, what truly caught me off guard was my fondness for Google’s rendition of Android 16. The interface is not only vibrant and responsive but also introduces several enhancements that I had long hoped to see integrated into Pixel software.
Despite these improvements, I must admit that the Pixel UI has never been my top choice. While I commend the strides made with Android 16 and Material 3 Expressive, there are still elements that I believe Google could refine in future iterations. Many of the features I yearn for seem standard on other Android devices, making their absence on Pixels all the more surprising.
Multitasking
Google’s focus on enhancing the multitasking experience, particularly for foldable devices like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, is commendable. However, the multitasking functionality on traditional Pixel models leaves something to be desired. The Open Apps view presents large cards side by side, which, while visually appealing, lacks the utility found in similar views from other manufacturers. Although the availability of features like Screenshot and text selection is beneficial, I find myself wishing for a quick access option to recommended apps for seamless navigation.
Moreover, the placement of the Clear All button, requiring a swipe to the far right, feels unnecessarily cumbersome. In contrast, brands like Motorola allow users to access this feature with a simple tap, enhancing usability, especially for tasks like streaming music.
One feature I have long desired for the Pixel lineup is a native side panel. This would enable users to swiftly access their most-used applications by swiping from the display’s edge, a convenience I have come to rely on with other smartphones. It’s perplexing that Google has yet to incorporate this feature, particularly when they have introduced a taskbar for foldable devices.
More customization
Customization is a hallmark of the Android experience, and while the Pixel UI has made strides in this area—especially with the revamped Quick Settings—there remains room for enhancement. For instance, the Open Apps view should allow users to select their preferred presentation style. Similarly, the Quick Settings menu could benefit from greater flexibility in rearranging, resizing, and styling tiles, akin to the robust options offered by Samsung.
Beyond these examples, I envision a broader scope for customization within the Pixel UI. Allowing users to modify app icon shapes and the content displayed on the status bar would empower individuals to tailor their devices to their preferences. OnePlus has successfully implemented such features, and I believe they contribute significantly to a cleaner, more organized user experience.
Best of both worlds?
There are numerous smaller adjustments that could collectively enhance the customization options available to users. Android has always prided itself on offering choices, and while many appreciate the Pixel UI’s inherent qualities, the introduction of deeper customization options could elevate the experience further. Perhaps Google could consider launching a Good Lock-style application—tentatively named “Pixelate”—which would allow users to personalize their devices without altering the core Pixel experience. This approach could indeed provide the best of both worlds.
What changes to the Pixel UI would you like to see? Your thoughts are welcome in the comments below!
Android 16 on the Pixel 10 is a step in the right direction, but there are still changes I wanna see
Android Central’s Editor’s Desk serves as a weekly exploration of the latest developments and trends within the Android and mobile technology landscape. Recently, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the Pixel 10, and I found much to appreciate, particularly in its camera capabilities and the innovative magnetic Qi2 charging feature. However, what truly caught me off guard was my fondness for Google’s rendition of Android 16. The interface is not only vibrant and responsive but also introduces several enhancements that I had long hoped to see integrated into Pixel software.
Despite these improvements, I must admit that the Pixel UI has never been my top choice. While I commend the strides made with Android 16 and Material 3 Expressive, there are still elements that I believe Google could refine in future iterations. Many of the features I yearn for seem standard on other Android devices, making their absence on Pixels all the more surprising.
Multitasking
Google’s focus on enhancing the multitasking experience, particularly for foldable devices like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, is commendable. However, the multitasking functionality on traditional Pixel models leaves something to be desired. The Open Apps view presents large cards side by side, which, while visually appealing, lacks the utility found in similar views from other manufacturers. Although the availability of features like Screenshot and text selection is beneficial, I find myself wishing for a quick access option to recommended apps for seamless navigation.
Moreover, the placement of the Clear All button, requiring a swipe to the far right, feels unnecessarily cumbersome. In contrast, brands like Motorola allow users to access this feature with a simple tap, enhancing usability, especially for tasks like streaming music.
One feature I have long desired for the Pixel lineup is a native side panel. This would enable users to swiftly access their most-used applications by swiping from the display’s edge, a convenience I have come to rely on with other smartphones. It’s perplexing that Google has yet to incorporate this feature, particularly when they have introduced a taskbar for foldable devices.
More customization
Customization is a hallmark of the Android experience, and while the Pixel UI has made strides in this area—especially with the revamped Quick Settings—there remains room for enhancement. For instance, the Open Apps view should allow users to select their preferred presentation style. Similarly, the Quick Settings menu could benefit from greater flexibility in rearranging, resizing, and styling tiles, akin to the robust options offered by Samsung.
Beyond these examples, I envision a broader scope for customization within the Pixel UI. Allowing users to modify app icon shapes and the content displayed on the status bar would empower individuals to tailor their devices to their preferences. OnePlus has successfully implemented such features, and I believe they contribute significantly to a cleaner, more organized user experience.
Best of both worlds?
There are numerous smaller adjustments that could collectively enhance the customization options available to users. Android has always prided itself on offering choices, and while many appreciate the Pixel UI’s inherent qualities, the introduction of deeper customization options could elevate the experience further. Perhaps Google could consider launching a Good Lock-style application—tentatively named “Pixelate”—which would allow users to personalize their devices without altering the core Pixel experience. This approach could indeed provide the best of both worlds.
What changes to the Pixel UI would you like to see? Your thoughts are welcome in the comments below!