Google introduces Material 3 Expressive design and new Pixel Buds features

The September Pixel drop brings Google’s Material 3 Expressive design language to Pixel 6 devices and newer, along with the Pixel Tablet. First announced in May 2025, Material 3 Expressive offers a colorful, playful aesthetic and more customization options, including iPhone-like calling cards for personalized call screens. The update also brings new features for Pixel Buds Pro 2, including Adaptive Audio, which adjusts volume based on environmental sound, and a hearing protection feature that dampens sudden loud noises. Additionally, the update includes background noise reduction when interacting with Gemini and the ability to control calls with head nods or shakes. Another notable feature is the automatic display of Maps on Pixel Watches when navigation starts on a paired phone. Other enhancements, such as Bluetooth audio sharing and AI-powered writing suggestions in Gboard, are being rolled out to more Android devices. The update also includes a redesigned Quick Share menu and a new Androidify app that lets users create a custom Android bot using a selfie and a prompt.