Pixel’s Unique Edge: Why a smaller user base is a win & what’s new in Pixel Camera 9.5 for older devices

Key Points:
- A smaller user base allows faster innovation.
- Google Pixel Camera 9.5 brings new features to older models.
- Guided Frame is now easier to access in Pixel Camera settings.
Ric Osterloh, head of Google’s Pixel division and former Motorola executive, recently spoke about the advantages of not having a billion users on Pixel devices. In an interview following the “Made by Google” event, he highlighted how Google’s AI advancements, particularly with Gemini Live, have placed pressure on Apple to improve Siri.
Osterloh shared his experience when he joined Google in 2016 and found that the Pixel hardware team was just two people. He emphasized the importance of Google’s relationship with Samsung, ensuring Android’s compatibility beyond just Pixel devices. Interestingly, Osterloh revealed that very few Samsung Galaxy users switch to Pixel, which he views as an advantage. The smaller user base allows Google to innovate more freely, making adjustments without worrying about affecting billions of users.
He pointed out that having a smaller install base enables the Pixel team to introduce new features and make significant changes annually. This flexibility allows them to refine products like Gemini Live based on user feedback quickly.
The latest Pixel 9 series has introduced new camera features, some of which are now available to older models through Pixel Camera 9.5. This update includes a new 5-second timer option and easier access to the Guided Frame feature. However, features like the redesigned Panorama mode and 8K Video Boost are not yet available on older devices, though they may be included in future updates. Additionally, users can expect updates to Pixel Camera on Wear OS shortly.
YouTube Music adds new feature to keep song volume steady

YouTube Music is rolling out a new feature called “Stable volume” to make your listening experience better. This option helps keep the sound level the same across all songs, so you won’t have to turn the volume up or down when switching tracks.
Sometimes, songs are louder or softer depending on how they were made. This new feature fixes that by adjusting each track so that all music plays at a similar volume. It’s especially useful when you’re using headphones or listening in the car.
You can find this option in the YouTube Music app by going to Settings > Playback & restrictions, where you’ll see a switch for “Stable volume.” It works for both free and Premium users, and it’s now appearing on Android devices (version 7.07 or later). iOS support may come soon, but it’s not available yet.
This is a welcome update, as many streaming apps like Spotify and Apple Music already have similar volume balancing tools. It helps make playlists and albums sound smoother and more enjoyable without constant volume changes.
So far, the feature is being released in stages, so you might not see it right away, but it should show up soon for everyone.
Android
Android 16 beta adds battery health info, Pixel Fold gets better at detecting opens and closes

Google has released the Android 16 Beta 1 update for Pixel phones, and it brings some helpful new features. One of the key additions is battery health information, which is now available in the settings. Pixel users can now see the battery’s manufacturing date, charge cycles, and overall health score. This can help people understand how well their battery is holding up over time. While this feature is currently hidden under developer options, it might be fully added in a future update.
At the same time, Google is also working to improve the Pixel Fold. With Android 16 Beta 1, there’s a new system that better detects when the phone is opened or closed. This new method uses the hinge angle to more accurately understand the device’s position. Unlike older systems that could be affected by software bugs or slow response times, this new one seems to be more reliable and faster.
These changes are important for people who use foldable phones like the Pixel Fold, as better hinge detection can lead to smoother app transitions and fewer bugs. And for all Pixel users, having detailed battery info can help with managing phone performance and deciding when it’s time for a battery replacement.
Overall, Android 16 Beta 1 focuses on giving users more control and smoother experiences, especially for those with foldables.
Android
Android 16 could bring colorful always-on display to Pixel phones

Google is working on Android 16, and it looks like the update could bring more color to the always-on display (AOD) feature on Pixel phones. Right now, the AOD mostly shows white text on a black screen. But a new setting found in the Android 16 Developer Preview hints at the ability to add colors to this display.
The new feature is called “AOD Preview,” and it includes a switch labeled “Color AOD.” While this setting doesn’t work yet, it suggests that Google might be planning to show colorful content even when the screen is in low-power mode.
This change could make AOD look more lively, maybe by adding color to the clock, notifications, or wallpaper. So far, it’s not clear exactly what will change or how customizable it will be, but the feature seems to be in early testing.
Samsung already has more colorful AOD options on its Galaxy devices, so this update could help Pixel phones catch up. Google often introduces new features first on Pixel devices before making them available to other Android phones.
Android 16 is still being developed, and many features are not ready yet. But if Color AOD becomes part of the final release, Pixel users could get a more vibrant and useful always-on display in the near future.
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