Google’s Pixel phones aren’t exactly known for their “everything and the kitchen sink” approach to features, which leads to some well-built features not found on other devices on the Pixel. according to 9 to 5 Google readers, these are the biggest missing features in Google Pixel.
All of the following is based on some of the most upvoted and/or most mentioned points from the last survey we encountered 9 to 5 Google readersbut presented in no particular order. Thanks to everyone who commented!
Better backup/restore, iPhone style
Android received a lot it’s better to back up user data and make it available for transfer to a new device, especially lately. Only in the last few years has Google simplified the installation and transfer process while speeds things up dramatically and copying more data than ever before. Android 17 even improves on what’s available on the iPhone.
However, Apple objectively does it better.
Switching from one iPhone model to another is a painless process. Approximately everything switches from your home screen layout to your app logins and data. It’s like removing the memory chip from one phone and putting it in another.
Android is a completely different story even on the Pixel. There are ways for applications to transfer data over however, this is an option for developers and is rather sparsely supported. You will usually see your home screen moved, but not if you came from any other Android brand. It’s all very hit or miss, though, again a lot improvements in recent years.
Better home screen and lock screen controls
I would describe the Pixel Launcher and lock screen experience as “clean” rather than feature-packed. I’ll chalk it up to the bloat found on many other Android devices, but there are absolutely points that could be improved.
On the home screen, 9 to 5 Google readers called out missing options, such as the ability to add programs en masse to a new folder instead of removing them individually from the app drawer. Other missing options like proper icon packs – AI-generated icons are half-size at best – were also pointed out by our readers. I would also note that Pixels would benefit from being able to move home screen pages as a full panel instead of moving each element individually. This is a niche use case, but has become standard on most other Android devices.
As for the lock screen, it’s in for a pretty big update.
Our readers even pointed out where Apple went a long way here, such as the ability to save multiple layouts, the ability to use widgets on the home screen — the right widgets, this is not page two nonsense – and more.
The point that impressed me the most was around shortcuts. The Pixel gets two customizable shortcuts and a choice between the camera or wallet when you double-tap the power button, while the Gemini long-presses. Apple’s iPhone gives users the same two shortcut buttons, an always-on swipe shortcut for the camera and a power button shortcut for Siri and Wallet, while most iPhones now have two more physical buttons for the camera or customizable access to everything else. I’ve always been pretty happy with the Pixel’s build in this department, but when you put it up against the competition, it’s clear that Google has room for improvement.
If you remember The Rules, you’ve probably given it more thought than Google
“Rules” feature It debuted with Android 10 It might be the biggest missed opportunity on the Pixel. The feature came quietly and was never adopted by Google. Moreover, six years later, it is almost untouched.
He can do anything indeed It is to adjust your calling mode based on Wi-Fi network or location.
Meanwhile, Samsung Galaxy users have access to advanced “Modes” and the iPhone has “Siri Shortcuts”, both of which are very capable features. a lot More than Pixel “Rules”. Honestly, it’s kind of wild that Google ignored this for so long, and it’s probably not even in the thinking process during Gemini. Still, I’d like to see it overhauled, and it sounds like it 9 to 5 Google readers agree.
Other missing Google Pixel features
Those were the biggest standouts, but there were some other features that caught my eye.
Double tap to lock it’s been mentioned a few times and I’d like to see it too. My first thought was that maybe an old LG patent was on the way or something, but if that were true, Samsung wouldn’t have the feature either. So, yes, it seems like a no-brainer for Google. Better charging limits as has been brought up many times additional clock/font styles.
Of course, there were also many hardware requirements. Google still needs to work on thermal management. It’s something I was reminded of this week amid a massive 100-degree heat wave in my home state, but it’s something users in warmer climates deal with year-round, and it’s long overdue for Google to work on it.
What else?
First time running? What other missing Google Pixel features would you like to see? Vote in the poll below around the features we’ve mentioned here, and leave your more requests in the comments below! Maybe we can give Google some inspiration…
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