Google has recently released the Android 17 Beta 4 build for developers, and a new report suggests it includes hints about a forthcoming feature, potentially bringing LED lighting to the rear panel of future Pixel devices.
Known as Pixel Glow, this feature appears to operate as an LED-based notification system, akin to the front-facing notification lights found on older smartphones.
A screenshot included in the report reveals that Pixel Glow will employ colored lights on the rear panel to alert users of incoming notifications when the phone is placed face down.
Notably, the feature won't be visible when Flash notifications are active. Further analysis of the beta code implies that Pixel Glow will necessitate dedicated hardware for lighting on the device.
Other snippets of code hint at diverse applications for Pixel Glow, including minimal lighting effects for incoming calls from favorite contacts, visual feedback during hands-free operation, and illumination during interactions with Gemini.
Interestingly, leaked renders of the anticipated Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, and Pixel 11 Pro XL do not display any discernible rear lighting hardware, leaving uncertainty regarding how Google intends to execute this feature.
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