Android 9 Pie update rolling out to Google Pixel phones today, here's what's new

Non-Pixel devices can expect the update in the Fall.

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If you're a Pixel smartphone owner, you're about to get a fresh dose of Android juice. Android OS update number nine aka Pie, which hit public beta back in May this year, is finally rolling out to Pixel users. Non-Pixel Android users, specifically the ones that were a part of the beta program, can expect the update later in Fall 2018.

Google reveals that the new Android update is rolling out to Pixel smartphones as of today, August 6, and the collective updates seem to all point to a heightened sense of efficiency and control. For those that own them, smartphones are a crucial part of everyday existence and Android Pie has features that will get users to the desired actions faster. 

Another focus is user digital wellbeing, which Google is addressing by showing the user data and giving users options to help themselves curb any issues. For example, the new dashboard will tell you exactly how you're spending your time on your smartphone and the app timer option will let you limit the amount of time you can use a specific app daily. The blog post breaks down the individual major updates and changes, so here are the bullet points:

  • New & robust app dashboard
  • New system navigation
  • Set a time limit for daily app use
  • Enhanced "do not disturb" mode that blocks all visual indicators
  • A mode that blocks blue light
  • Gesture interface
  • Adaptive battery that focuses on apps currently in use
  • App action recommendations based on your activity
  • Improved security

Google is working with hardware manufacturers outside of Pixel and beta program devices to get the Pie update, so look out for updates in the near future. Stay tuned to Shacknews and share your Pie update takes in Chatty.

Charles Singletary Jr keeps the updates flowing as the News Editor, breaking stories while investigating the biggest topics in gaming and technology. He's pretty active on Twitter, so feel free to reach out to him @The_CSJR. Got a hot tip? Email him at Charles.Singletary@Shacknews.com.

From The Chatty
  • reply
    August 6, 2018 2:50 PM

    Charles Singletary posted a new article, Android 9 Pie update rolling out to Google Pixel phones today, here's what's new

    • reply
      August 6, 2018 3:36 PM

      Gotta wait here :(

      • reply
        August 7, 2018 9:18 AM

        Apparently there's some haxxor way to install a GSI but meh I'll just wait

    • reply
      August 6, 2018 3:42 PM

      [deleted]

    • reply
      August 6, 2018 6:37 PM

      Cool, downloading now. First time I didn't have to wait a week plus for a major update

    • Zek legacy 10 years legacy 20 years
      reply
      August 6, 2018 8:33 PM

      I like it, nice polish improvements. Best feature by far is that the volume buttons only adjust media volume, never ringtone. It just also displays an extra icon you can use to toggle the ring tone if you want.

    • reply
      August 6, 2018 9:00 PM

      [deleted]

      • reply
        August 7, 2018 6:55 AM

        Sarcasm?

        I've been using the Beta for a month now and it has feels like the most significant jump since KitKat.

        1. Improved battery detection. Makes it really easy to control and disable apps that are constantly using battery power in the background. The previous method was not accurate in the slightest.

        2. No more button press to get to apps. Just swipe up and you are there. Feels a bit more responsive to me. There are a few other gestures as well.

        3. More control over notifications and apps in the notification drawer. (Sorry if I don't remember the exact technical terms. I still hate the native behavior of Youtube though. I can swipe away any other app to remove it from the notifications except Youtube it seems.

        4. Everything is a bit easier to customize.

        5. If an app has permission to your mic, camera, etc its privilege is removed unless it's running in the foreground. Separated access from phone and our call logs, etc. Better security.

        • reply
          August 7, 2018 8:35 AM

          This. It's suuuper smooth. First time it kinda feels like iOS (no dropping frames).

    • reply
      August 6, 2018 10:36 PM

      I have to say, this feels really damn snappy.

    • reply
      August 7, 2018 6:09 AM

      [deleted]

    • reply
      August 7, 2018 8:14 AM

      The only thing I'm not liking so far is the clock on the left side of the screen. The last decade has me looking there for new notifications, now there is always something there.

    • reply
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