Google Introduces HiLight with Pixel 11 Series: Here’s What the Rear RGB LED Does

Google has unveiled the Pixel 11 series, and with it comes a new feature called HiLight. It's a glowing RGB LED exclusive to the Pixel 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL and 11 Pro Fold that can help find the right balance between minimising digital distractions and staying connected.

Pixel HiLight Feature Revealed

Built as an array of ambient LED lights surrounding the rear camera’s flash of the Pixel 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL and 11 Pro Fold, the HiLight feature helps users communicate without needing to pick up their phones.

Pixel 11 Pro HiLight LED at the back — Image Credit: Google

When the device is resting face-down, the LEDs glow in different colours, offering visual cues that help you decide whether to pick up your phone or stay in the moment.

While earlier teasers of the Pixel Glow feature sparked speculation about its full capabilities, Google has announced HiLight with just two highly practical, daily use cases – Custom alerts for favourite contacts and Interactions with Gemini.

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How Does the Pixel 11 HiLight Feature Work?

For starters, HiLight complements Pixel 11's Flip to Shhh feature. When the Phone is placed face down to silence notifications, the LED array will alert users to incoming calls from their Favourite Contacts using different colours.

Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold from the back with HiLight glowing — Image Credit: Google

This gives users glanceable information without requiring them to shift their focus to check the screen and end up getting distracted. Besides, HiLight is deeply integrated with both the native Phone by Google app and WhatsApp to ensure the designated custom colours remain consistent.

The second core function of HiLight revolves around Gemini. For users who want to use Gemini without picking up their phones, the rear LED array pulses with visual cues to indicate what the AI is doing or whether it's listening to your queries.

The light will shift patterns to show when Gemini is actively listening, thinking, and responding, allowing you to use voice commands screen-free.

That said, HiLight is exclusive to Pixel 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL and 11 Pro Fold and isn't available on the standard Pixel 11. Besides, we're not sure if Google will potentially expand its functionality beyond contacts and Gemini.