Science & Tech · Gadgets & EVs · 7 hrs ago
Pixel 11 Pro HiLight will glow for texts from favorite contacts
Google is expanding HiLight alerts to text messages on the Pixel 11 Pro, Pro XL and Pro Fold.
The light on the back of the phone will glow when a preferred contact sends a text through Google Messages.
Until now, HiLight could glow for calls from preferred contacts or when Gemini was active.
The change is part of Google’s November Pixel Drop, a software update that also brings some features to other Pixel devices.
Pixel 10 phones are getting Gemini Intelligence features, including Rambler, a voice transcription tool.
Pixel 11 and Pixel 10 users will also be able to ask Gemini to make calls for tasks such as reservations or checking inventory.
The update makes HiLight more useful, while Google has not announced further notification uses for the light.
Google’s November Pixel Drop adds Google Messages text alerts to the HiLight light on Pixel 11 Pro phones.
The light glows when the phone is face-down and a favorite contact sends a text.
HiLight previously lit up for calls from selected contacts and Gemini interactions, with WhatsApp call support also noted by Android Authority.
The update is part of a broader Pixel Drop that brings other features to Pixel devices.
Commentators say HiLight still has limited app support.
- Who
- Google is adding the feature for Pixel 11 Pro users.
- What
- HiLight will glow for Google Messages texts from favorite contacts.
- When
- The feature was announced on November 10, 2026, as part of the November Pixel Drop.
- Where
- On the back of Pixel 11 Pro phones.
- Why
- Google is expanding the functions of its HiLight notification light.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Google introduced HiLight with the Pixel 11 Pro launch.
Google announced that the November Pixel Drop would add Google Messages support to HiLight.
- Devices
- Pixel 11 Pro phones
- New app support
- Google Messages
- Alert trigger
- Texts from favorite contacts
- Previous uses
- Calls from selected contacts and Gemini interactions
- Update
- November Pixel Drop
3 sources
What people are saying
HiLight will continue to get new features