Pixel 11 Series: What’s the Buzz?
Overall, it appears that the Pixel 11 series will not stray far from the Pixel 10 models. However, Pixel Glow promises to introduce an exciting new feature, and I can’t wait to see its design.
Exploring the Beta Code
The specifics of this feature are mainly rudimentary, extracted from the Android 17 beta code. It indicates that this feature could make its appearance on the Pixel 11 devices as a concealed design aspect. It’s defined as “discreet light and color on the back of your device to keep you informed of significant activity when it’s face down.”
Could It Resemble Nothing’s Glyph?
It resembles Nothing’s Glyph lighting found on the backs of several devices, allowing notifications without checking the screen. Nonetheless, the recently unveiled CAD-based images of the Pixel 11 series don’t reveal much.
What’s Concealed?
I suspect they’re hidden, perhaps in the revamped camera bar or potentially within the ‘G’ logo on the rear, akin to how the Apple logo used to illuminate on MacBook lids.
Gemini’s Bold Theories
My curiosity led me to ask Gemini what the Pixel Glow lights on the rear of a Pixel 11 might resemble, much like I previously did for a theoretical Pixel Ring.
Initial Thoughts
The very first image is the one you see at the start of the article, which is a fantastic artistic interpretation of Pixel Glow (the white version seems like a more probable representation, in my opinion) but it’s not precisely what I envisioned.
Getting More Detailed
After some additional prompting, I got Gemini to depict the lights around the camera bar in Google’s signature quartet of colors (you’ll need to disregard the random light coming from the phone’s bottom).
Chris Martin / Foundry
Customization Options
The code indicates subtle light and color, so this could be the way Google chooses to implement it, in my view. The code implies you’ll have the option to personalize Pixel Glow for your top contacts, meaning you might select different colors for your top four friends or family members.
Alternative Illuminated Logo Idea
Less likely but feasible is the light-up logo idea, illustrated here with the ‘G’ split into four sections, one for each hue. It would function similarly to my mock-up, but it isn’t as visually striking as the camera bar approach.
Chris Martin / Foundry
When Can We Anticipate Pixel Glow?
If it launches on the Pixel 11 and not a subsequent model, we shouldn’t have to wait too long. Google is expected to unveil the phones in August, and who knows, we could possibly catch a glimpse of them or Pixel Glow at this month’s Google I/O developer conference.
Summary: Glow or No Glow?
Well my friend, whether it illuminates the night or just fizzles out, only time will reveal. Let’s hope this Pixel Glow isn’t just another disappointment!
