Pixel phone

AppWizard
September 26, 2026
Pixel phone users are experiencing issues with the Google Photos editor, where functionalities such as sharing, deleting, and editing become unresponsive after photo edits, particularly after cropping or rotating images. This problem affects multiple Pixel models, including the Pixel 8, 9, 10, and 11 series. Users have reported that these options work correctly if no edits are made. Google is reportedly working on enhancing the editing capabilities in the Photos app, but addressing the current bug is a priority.
AppWizard
September 24, 2026
GrapheneOS has announced that the Motorola Signature 27 will be its first supported device from Motorola. This decision was confirmed on social media, with GrapheneOS stating it would be the initial supported phone. The Signature 27 features Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chip and promises seven years of operating system and security updates. Key features include hardware memory tagging and enhanced secure-element integration. GrapheneOS aims to provide alternatives to Google’s Pixel phones while focusing on privacy and security. The announcement follows challenges GrapheneOS faced with Google regarding the Pixel 11 and access to certain Android APIs. Additionally, GrapheneOS is revamping its software ecosystem, including updates to its Messaging app and new privacy features.
BetaBeacon
September 8, 2026
- Gemini is an AI assistant that has evolved into a multitasking tool. - Users can now complete more complex tasks through text prompts on Google Gemini. - The Gemini app now functions as a dynamic background module for multitasking. - The feature began rolling out on September 4 for Android devices. - The Gemini multitasking shortcut was previously available for specific Android devices. - The feature allows users to multitask while working in other apps. - The author hopes to see similar features for other AI tools on Apple and Android devices.
AppWizard
September 3, 2026
In recent months, users are reconsidering their reliance on Google, leading to a movement towards "deGoogling." A poll indicated that 6% of respondents have completely stopped using Google's products, 58% have reduced their usage, 21% have considered the idea but haven't acted, and 15% remain committed to Google. Some users are replacing Google services with alternatives like Kagi for search, Proton for email and cloud services, and Firefox for browsing. Despite these changes, many still use certain Google products, such as the Pixel phone, Google smart speakers, and services like YouTube and Google Maps, due to their effectiveness and integration. Transitioning away from Google has been reported as less daunting than expected for many users.
AppWizard
August 17, 2026
The Pixel line received an update with Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3, introducing enhanced color customization options in the "Wallpaper & style" settings. Users can now use a color slider to select their preferred hue for the system theme and choose from four styles: Neutral, Soft, Bright, and Bold. The update allows users to refine their color choices and personalize their device's aesthetic. The rollout began on Friday, and users can enroll in the Android Beta Program to access these features, with the stable version expected for non-beta testers in December 2026.
AppWizard
July 7, 2026
Google has discontinued its Pixel Studio image generation feature. Pixel phone users can still create custom stickers using the Google Photos app and other alternatives like the Gemini app and WhatsApp. To create a sticker in Google Photos, users need to locate an image, open a chat in Google Messages, tap the smiley face icon, select Photomoji, and send the sticker. The Gemini app allows users to transform images into stickers by providing specific instructions, though the output will have an opaque background. In WhatsApp, users can convert images into stickers by selecting the stickers option and tapping the "create sticker" button. Users are advised to update their phones and applications for the latest features.
AppWizard
June 18, 2026
Android 17 has been released for Pixel phone users, introducing new features like Bubbles. However, users of devices from the Pixel 7 to the Pixel 10 series are experiencing Wi-Fi connectivity issues, where apps are not utilizing the Wi-Fi connection and instead using mobile data. This problem predominantly affects Google apps, although some still work over Wi-Fi. Discussions suggest that enabling IPv6 support on home routers might resolve the issue, but attempts to replicate the problem by disabling IPv6 and mobile data were unsuccessful. The issue has raised concerns about the thoroughness of testing prior to the update's release.
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