The September 2026 Pixel Drop brings focused changes to Google phones and watches. VIP widgets make important contacts easier to reach, while scam protections expand across messages and notifications.
Quick answer
| Feature | Change |
|---|---|
| VIP widget | Call or message in one tap and switch contacts. |
| Gboard | Inline scam warnings for selected US scenarios. |
| Scam Detection | More chat notifications covered by region. |
| Pixel Watch | Improved Raise to Talk and one-handed gestures. |
Important contacts on the home screen
The widget adds notification badges and a floating selector between contacts. It targets people who want to reach family without navigating the Contacts app.
More scam signals
Gboard can display a warning during a suspicious conversation in the US. Detection also expands to more chat apps in selected regions. These alerts remain assistance: no warning does not prove a message is legitimate.
Watch improvements
Raise to Talk should better recognize the assistant gesture, and more apps support one-handed controls. Google also includes general fixes. Availability depends on model, language and market.
Receiving the update
Check system, Pixel app and Google Play updates. A staged rollout may take days. Before assuming a feature is missing, review eligible devices and geographic restrictions.
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