Google’s latest flagship, the Pixel 11 Pro, introduces a new hardware feature called HiLight. This addition consists of ambient LED lights encircling the camera flash, positioned on the right side of the camera bar for the Pro and Pro XL models, and in the top-left corner for the Pro Fold variant.
At launch, HiLight offers two primary functions. Firstly, when the device is placed face down, the LEDs emit a glow to notify users of incoming calls from favorite contacts. This feature integrates with the Phone by Google app and WhatsApp. Users can assign one of five distinct colors to specific contacts via the Contacts app, allowing for personalized visual alerts. For instance, family members can share a color, while close friends have another. To dismiss the HiLight glow during an incoming call, users can simply tap the power button.
The second function of HiLight serves as an indicator for Google’s voice assistant, Gemini. The LEDs display different glow patterns to signify when the assistant is listening, processing, or responding to commands. Users have the option to enable or disable this feature within the system settings.
Looking ahead, Google plans to expand HiLight’s capabilities. Future updates aim to extend the favorite contact color notifications to messaging applications. However, the timeline for this enhancement remains unspecified. Additionally, there is no current information regarding potential support for third-party applications.
Introducing hardware features like HiLight reflects Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance user interaction through intuitive design. While its initial functionalities are limited, the planned expansions suggest a commitment to evolving the user experience. Observing how Google integrates HiLight with broader app ecosystems will be crucial in determining its long-term value to users.
