Google has released the Android 17 Beta 4 build for developers, revealing hints of an exciting new feature for future Pixel devices. This feature, known as Pixel Glow, suggests the integration of LED lighting on the rear panel, functioning as an LED-based notification system, reminiscent of front-facing notification lights seen in older smartphones.
A shared screenshot from the report provides further insights, indicating that Pixel Glow will use colored lights on the rear panel to alert users of incoming notifications when the phone is placed face down. Notably, when Flash notifications are enabled, this feature will remain invisible.
In addition, coding uncovered in the beta hints that Pixel Glow will necessitate specialized hardware lighting within the device. Other code strings suggest various applications for Pixel Glow, including soft lighting for calls from favorite contacts, visual feedback during hands-free operations, and subtle lights for interactions with Gemini.
Interestingly, leaked renders of the anticipated Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, and Pixel 11 Pro XL do not display any visible rear lighting hardware, leaving uncertainty about how Google intends to implement this feature.
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