In the latest Android Canary build 2510, Google has unveiled a redesigned flashlight brightness control for Pixel devices, drawing clear inspiration from Apple’s iOS interface. This update introduces a vertical slider within the Quick Settings menu, allowing users to adjust the flashlight’s intensity directly.
Previously, Pixel users had to rely on third-party applications to modify flashlight brightness, as the native functionality was limited to a simple on/off toggle. The new design features a beam-shaped slider that visually represents the flashlight’s intensity, expanding as the brightness increases. This approach mirrors the design Apple implemented in iOS 18, which also includes the ability to adjust the beam’s width on Pro-series iPhones.
The introduction of this feature addresses a longstanding request from Pixel users for more granular control over their device’s flashlight. While some Android manufacturers, such as Samsung, have offered similar controls through their custom interfaces since as early as 2017, Google’s stock Android has lagged in this regard. The new slider is expected to be part of a future Quarterly Platform Release (QPR), potentially arriving in March 2026.
For users eager to access this functionality ahead of the official release, third-party applications like FlashDim offer a viable solution. FlashDim allows users to adjust flashlight brightness, create custom Quick Settings toggles, and integrate shortcuts with the volume rocker for enhanced accessibility.
This development signifies Google’s commitment to enhancing user experience by incorporating intuitive and user-friendly features, even if it means drawing inspiration from competitors. The addition of the flashlight brightness slider is a welcome improvement, providing users with the flexibility to adjust their device’s flashlight to suit various lighting needs.
