Google has announced a new set of features for Pixel devices, bringing changes to contacts, scam protection, smartwatch controls and device customisation. The September Pixel update aims to make everyday interactions faster while adding new ways to identify potentially fraudulent messages.
The update is available across a range of Pixel products, although some features are limited to specific models or countries. Pixel 6 and newer phones receive several new additions, while the latest Wear OS update is rolling out to Pixel Watch 5 devices.
Pixel phones get quicker access to VIP contacts
One of the main changes coming to Pixel phones is an expanded VIP feature, designed to make important contacts easier to reach. On Pixel 6 and newer devices, expanded widget options will allow users to place VIPs and favourite contacts directly on the home screen for quicker access.
The new widgets let users send a text message or make a phone call without first opening the contacts app. This provides a more direct way to communicate with people you contact often or consider important.
Google is also adding new notification badges to help users identify messages from VIP contacts. The badges can indicate whether an urgent message has arrived or whether a VIP has an unread message. The changes are intended to make important communications easier to spot without requiring users to open individual applications.
The company is also expanding its Scam Detection capabilities. The feature can now identify potential fraudulent messages from supported chat applications and display warnings directly within notifications. Google says the expanded feature is available in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Singapore, India, Germany, Mexico, Japan and France.
For users in the US, Scam Detection is also being integrated into Gboard. This means the keyboard can alert users to potential scam messages while they compose or respond to messages. The wider availability of Scam Detection gives Pixel owners another layer of protection against suspicious communications.
Pixel Watch 5 gains offline Gemini and gesture controls
Google is also rolling out a Wear OS 7-based update to Pixel Watch 5 devices. The update introduces a more personalised version of Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, with access available even when the watch is offline.
The software also improves GPS route tracking. Google says the updated system provides more accurate route tracking, which could help with activities such as walking, running, and other outdoor exercises where location accuracy matters.
Another part of the update focuses on one-handed interaction. Google is expanding the range of actions you can perform with wrist and hand gestures, reducing the need to touch the watch display for some common tasks.
With the new controls, users can double-pinch to open the notification centre directly from the watch face. The same gesture can also scroll through Gemini responses and move through cards in Google Wallet. It can also be used for navigating between Google Maps reviews and other supported interfaces.
The update retains the existing wrist-turn gesture, which can return you to the previous screen. Together, the expanded gestures are intended to make the smartwatch easier to operate when the other hand is occupied or when interacting with the small display is inconvenient.
Harry Potter themes bring new customisation options
Google is also introducing a themed customisation option for Pixel 6 and newer smartphones through Harry Potter Audiobook Packs. The packs allow eligible users to give their phones a different appearance inspired by the new Harry Potter audiobooks.
The customisation extends beyond a single wallpaper. Users can change elements including wallpapers, app icons and sounds, creating a more comprehensive themed experience across the device. The feature is being made available to eligible Pixel users in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, India, Japan and Australia.
As part of the promotion, eligible Pixel users in those markets will also receive two free months of Audible. The offer is tied to the Harry Potter Audiobook Packs and allows users to access the audiobook service alongside the themed Pixel experience.
The latest Pixel drop therefore combines practical changes with entertainment-focused customisation. Faster access to VIP contacts and expanded scam warnings address everyday communication and security, while the Wear OS 7 improvements add new controls and AI capabilities to Google’s smartwatch platform.
Feature availability varies by device and country, so not every Pixel owner will receive every part of the update. Google continues to roll out the changes across supported Pixel phones and Pixel Watch 5 devices.
