Latest Pixel Drop brings Android 16 overhaul to older Google phones

Google has announced its Pixel Drop software update for September, and the headline addition is the shiny new Material 3 Expressive UI coming to older Pixel smartphones.

Material 3 Expressive made its debut last week with the Google Pixel 10 range, and it’s good to see that Google isn’t hanging around before bringing it to the rest of the Pixel family.

Starting today, exactly a week on from Google’s latest phone launch, the company has announced that its new UI is rolling out to every phone in the range from the Pixel 6 onwards, as well as the Pixel Tablet.

Material 3 Expressive

Google’s new Material 3 Expressive brings a bold new style to Android 16. Its icons are clearer, its key buttons (like the call/hang up button) are bigger, and everything feels just that little bit more intuitive.

One new feature I’ve been appreciating is instant access to Do Not Disturb in the Quick Settings menu.

Live effects, meanwhile, add new animations to your lock screen wallpaper. It’s also possible to customise individual calling contacts.

Incoming Pixel Buds Pro 2 improvements

Later this month Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 earphones will be receiving a new Adaptive Audio feature, which allows your buds to intelligently adjust to your surroundings.

Loud Noise Protection will also added protection for your hearing. You’ll even be able to conduct clear chats with Gemini in noisy environments, such as when your TV is on or people are talking around you.

On top of that, Google is adding a new gesture-based input system whereby you can accept incoming calls or dismiss replying to a text with a nod or shake of your head.

Pixel Watch navigation enhancement

Google’s September Pixel Drop should also benefit Pixel Watch users, especially those who like to navigate using their smartwatch.

Start walking or biking navigation on your phone, and it’ll automatically push over onto your Pixel Watch.

But really, it’s all about that all-inclusive Material 3 Expressive update – alongside the usual bunch of fixes. Hopefully Google has ironed out some of the kinks that have affected a selection of Pixel 10 early adopters.