Google Should Revive These Useful Pixel Features Instead of HiLight

Google recently introduced HiLight, a new hardware feature for the Pixel 11 series that lights up when a favorite contact calls or when Gemini is active. However, many users and critics find it underwhelming. Instead, Google could focus on reviving some of its previously discontinued Pixel features that were more useful and innovative.

One such feature is Active Edge, introduced with the Pixel 2. It allowed users to launch Google Assistant or silence notifications by squeezing the phone. While limited, it felt natural and convenient. The author suggests Google should bring it back with expanded functionality, such as mapping it to the same actions as Quick Tap.

Project Soli, another dropped feature, enabled gesture-based controls like swiping to change music tracks or dismiss notifications. Though initially underwhelming, the author believes with advancements like Gemini, Google could reintroduce and enhance it for modern Pixel phones.

Lastly, the author misses System UI Tuner, a feature that allowed granular control over the status bar. While Google later re-added some options like battery percentage, it removed the rest of the tuner's functionality. The author hopes Google will restore this level of customization in future updates.