8 Things to Know About the Google Pixel Android 8.0 Oreo Update

Google Pixel & Android O Features

Android 8.0 comes with some notable changes and new features. The first thing you'll notice is the redesigned quick settings pulldown bar pictured above. Google changed it to grayscale and lowered the navigation and settings buttons to the bottom for easy access. 

Other things you may notice right away are little colorful dots on app icons. This is called Notification Dots, and give us quick access to more information for each app and their notifications. This feature ties into what's called App Shortcuts. Press and hold on an app for a list of quick access to features inside of that app, or to see the notification. Everything is smart, easy to use, or opens faster and with fewer steps. You can instantly launch the camera in selfie mode, for example. 

For a better idea of what to expect here is a huge guide detailing everything that's new in Android O. 

The Settings menu has been redesigned and is easier to understand. Certain settings are in new categories like "network & internet" for anything to do with WiFi, data usage, or cellular networks. We also received new emoji, adaptive icons, auto-fill inside apps (which is nice) and picture-in-picture mode for video. 

We can even change the size and shape of icons with the Google Pixel launcher. Another nice touch is downloadable fonts, to change the look and feel of our phones. Read more about what's new at Google's website.