Google Pixel HiLight Gets New Colours and Messaging Support in Upcoming Update

What is Pixel HiLight?

Google introduced the Pixel HiLight feature with the Pixel 11 series, placing a tiny notification LED inside the camera flash on the back of the phone. The light is only available on the Pro models such as the Google Pixel 11 Pro and the earlier Google Pixel 7 Pro, and it was initially limited to a handful of colours and simple alerts.

Current limitations

At launch the system could only flash when a favourite contact called or when the user interacted with Google Gemini. The colour palette was restricted to teal, yellow, pink, purple and white, and there was no support for messaging apps beyond the basic call integration with WhatsApp.

New code reveals expanded capabilities

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 code, reported by Android Authority, shows that Google plans to add three new colours – blue, red and two shades of green – bringing the total to eight. The hardware was already capable of more than five colours, so the software update simply unlocks the existing potential.

Messaging integration on the horizon

The same beta code suggests that HiLight will also respond to incoming messages. While Google has not confirmed which apps will be supported, the existing call integration works with WhatsApp, so it is reasonable to expect Google Messages to be included at a minimum. Third‑party integration may arrive in later updates.

When will the update arrive?

Because the feature is still in beta, the expanded HiLight functionality will not appear as a regular OTA update until later in the year. Industry insiders predict a December rollout as part of the annual Pixel Drop, which typically bundles new software features with discounted hardware such as the Google Pixel 11 Pro and the Google Pixel 7 Pro.

How does HiLight compare to competitors?

Other flagship phones have used notification LEDs for years. Samsung Galaxy S25, for example, still includes a small LED on the front panel, while Apple iPhone 15 Pro relies on the always‑on display for similar alerts. The hidden placement of HiLight gives the Pixel a unique aesthetic advantage, keeping the front screen free of distractions.

What users can expect

Once the update lands, Pixel owners will be able to customise the colour of the flash for different contacts, set distinct colours for calls versus messages, and potentially assign patterns for specific apps. This level of customisation brings the Pixel HiLight closer to the flexibility offered by older Android devices such as the OnePlus 12 Pro, which allowed users to map LED colours to notification types.

Conclusion

The upcoming software tweak turns a novelty feature into a practical notification tool. By expanding the colour range and adding message support, Google is answering early criticism and giving Pixel 11 Pro users a reason to keep the hidden flash turned on. Keep an eye on the December Pixel Drop for the official release.