The Pixel Tablet is getting a fresh look with new “Swirling petals” wallpapers, originally introduced for the Pixel 9 series. These wallpapers, featuring abstract floral designs in colors like pink (Cherry Blossoms), gold (Daffodil), purple (Lilac), and green (Water Lilies), complement the Pixel Tablet’s available colors. These high-resolution images (3088 x 2130) are perfect for desktop backgrounds. This isn’t the first time the Pixel Tablet has received wallpapers from other Pixel devices; it previously received the “Minerals” collection from the Pixel 8 series.

Google is also developing a new input method for Android XR (Extended Reality) devices. This system uses a gesture-based version of the familiar three-button navigation (Back, Home, Recents). Users will interact with a floating diamond-shaped container that appears when they raise their hand. Pinching this container reveals the three navigation buttons, which users can then select with a sliding motion. This system aims to provide a more efficient way to navigate in XR environments than traditional button presses. Android XR will also support other input methods, including hand and eye tracking (with an “Auto Detect” feature for switching between them), keyboards, mice, controllers, and voice input via Gemini.

Android XR apps can run in two modes: “Home Space” and “Full Space.” Home Space allows apps to run alongside each other in a 2D interface, enabling multitasking. Full Space allows an app to take center stage, optimizing and minimizing other apps. This is useful for immersive experiences like 3D model viewing or transitioning from a 2D slideshow to a 3D mode. Android XR is designed to automatically adjust the UI size based on the user’s field of view to ensure comfortable interaction.

In response to the Justice Department’s antitrust concerns, Google has proposed several changes to its Android and browser contracts. These proposals address concerns about Google’s dominance in search. Google is willing to allow Android device makers to access the Google Play Store and other Google apps without being required to also license Google Search or Chrome. Google also proposes allowing partners to license Google Play, Search, and Chrome without also licensing the Gemini Assistant. This is intended to foster competition in the AI assistant market.

Regarding browser search defaults, Google proposes limiting contracts to one year, allowing for more frequent competition. Browsers would also be able to set different default search engines for different operating system versions or browsing modes (like private browsing). While the DOJ has proposed a 10-year period for these changes, Google suggests three years, citing the rapid pace of innovation in search. Google opposes proposals that would require it to share search and ad data with competitors or to divest Chrome or Android. These proposals are subject to change, with a hearing between Google and the DOJ scheduled for April 2025 and a ruling expected before September 2025. Google plans to appeal the underlying decision.

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Google has released the stable Android 15 QPR1 update for Pixel devices previously running the beta 3.1 version. This update, which was delayed compared to the broader stable rollout last week, is specifically for users who opted out of the beta program to avoid QPR2. On a Pixel Fold, the update is a small 10.48 MB download including the December 2024 security patch and does not erase user data. Users can install it via Settings > System > Software updates > System update, confirming “Android Beta Exit No Data Wipe.”

In other Android news, Android 16 may offer a new level of control over AI-powered writing assistance. New code discovered in the Android 16 Developer Preview 2 suggests apps will be able to disable AI writing tools for specific text fields. This would be useful in situations where AI assistance is unwanted, such as password or number input fields. While AI writing tools, like those in Gboard, are helpful for general text input, this new feature would allow for more precise control and consistency across different keyboard apps. This new “Writing Tools API” will ensure the same behaviour across different keyboards.

Android 16 introduces a new feature for Pixel phones, specifically the Pixel 9 series: fingerprint unlocking while the screen is off.

In Android 16 Developer Preview 2, a new setting called “Screen-off fingerprint unlock” lets users activate the fingerprint sensor even when the display is completely dark. This is a notable new feature in the preview, as other changes were largely visual tweaks.

This functionality appears exclusive to the Pixel 9 series, likely due to its new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. Older Pixel phones use optical sensors, which emit light when activated. Keeping these sensors constantly active could lead to accidental light activation, especially in dark environments. Ultrasonic sensors don’t use light, making screen-off unlocking a smoother experience.

While always-on display (AOD) has offered similar functionality by keeping the fingerprint sensor active when the time is shown, this new option benefits users who prefer not to use AOD.

On Pixel 9 devices running Android 16 Developer Preview 2, the setting can be found in Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock > Face & Fingerprint Unlock > Fingerprint Unlock.