C. Scott Brown / Android Authority
I have a long list of software features I want to see on Pixel phones, including improved gestures — like those available on OnePlus phones — contextual app selection triggered by a Bluetooth connection, and more.
But software is only half the story. While Pixels offer a lot of value in terms of computational photography and AI, there are still areas in which they fall behind the competition when it comes to hardware. These are the upgrades I want to see on upcoming Pixel phones that would make them that much more appealing overall.
What feature would you most like to see on Pixel phones? 138 votes An extra button 11 % Faster charging 14 % An IR blaster 6 % Active Edge 4 % Silicon-carbon batteries 59 % Other (let me know in the comments) 6 %
1. An extra customizable button
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
I always loved OnePlus’ Alert Slider on the side, as it provided an instant, physical way to toggle between sound modes. The company ditched it for an even better solution with the OnePlus 15, which now features a customizable button on the side — we’ve seen this on phones from other manufacturers as well. I’d really love it if this feature would make its way to future Pixel phones, but with a twist.
An extra button means more custom shortcuts, and I’m all for it. I already appreciate being able to bring up Gemini on my Pixel 9a with a press and hold of the power button and opening the camera with a double press. I use that almost on a daily basis, but I want more.
I’d like to see a completely customizable button that works with a single, double, and even a triple press for maximum utility.
Personally, I’d set it up so that a single press brings up Google Wallet, as I use that frequently to pay in stores. It’s far faster to bring up the app that way than it is to unlock the phone, find the app, and then open it while there’s a line behind me at the register. A double press would put my phone in silent mode, and a triple press would turn on the flashlight — a utility I use often.
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