Google Pixel phones to get adaptive touch sensitivity feature for rain, other environments: report

HIGHLIGHTS

• Google is reportedly bringing an automatic touch sensitivity feature.
• The feature is designed to automatically adjust touch sensitivity as per the environment.
• The Circle to Search feature is now functional in the beta release.

Google is likely advancing its Pixel phones to tackle touch sensitivity challenges faced in several scenarios. In the latest Android beta, the tech giant is bringing an automatic touch sensitivity feature, removing the need for manual adjustments. It is worth noting that several Android devices provide specific settings such as “glove mode” or “screen protector mode” to enhance touch sensitivity. Typically, users need to activate these settings manually, which can be annoying at times. Google is trying to create an adaptive feature to sense the same.

Adaptive touch sensitivity on Pixel phones

• A recent reportby Android Police reveals the newly released Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1 will likely bring a feature named “adaptive touch”.
• The new feature is designed to automatically adjust touch sensitivity as per the environment.
• Factors influencing sensitivity adjustments include the user’s environment, activities, and the presence of a screen protector.
• Specific details on which environmental factors or activities trigger sensitivity changes remain undisclosed in the provided code.
• However, speculation suggests potential triggers such as rain, cold weather, or activities like swimming.
• As per the report, the mention of “screen protector” likely refers to an existing feature for detecting screen protectors.
• It’s inferred that the “adaptive touch” setting encompasses various internal services monitoring physical changes to adjust touch sensitivity.

When the feature becomes available, it’s expected that a toggle for “Adaptive touch” will be introduced in the Settings app, likely located under Display, then Touch sensitivity. In the recent Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1 update, “Touch sensitivity” was given its submenu, possibly in preparation for this upcoming feature.

The specific Pixel phones models that will support adaptive touch are uncertain at this time. However, it’s probable that at least the Google Pixel 8 series will be compatible, considering its current support for the screen detection feature associated with adaptive touch.

Take a look at the key changes and features highlighted in Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1:

• The Circle to Searchfeature is now functional in the beta release.
• Adaptive Touch Mode is being introduced to adjust touch sensitivity according to the environment.
• Biometric Prompt Dialog now displays the icon of the invoking app.
• Easy Pre-set Mode aims to simplify the Android user interface.
• Chat Bubble UI Revamp is planned for tablets.
• Screen protector mode has been relocated to a submenu called “touch sensitivity”.
• Swipe Up to Continue feature is designed for Pixel Fold users to seamlessly continue using an app on the cover screen.