Google’s upcoming Pixel phones may be getting a major upgrade to their lock screen experience, taking inspiration from Samsung’s Now Bar and Now Brief features. 
In the latest Android 16 beta, developers have uncovered a new interface called Gemini Space, which appears to be a reimagined and more dynamic version of the current At a Glance widget.
The evidence comes from a system config file labeled “Ambient Data” found in the firmware for both the Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel 8 Pro, suggesting this feature could arrive on current devices – not just the upcoming Pixel 10. The codename points toward a new, AI-powered interface that brings real-time updates to the lock screen and possibly the always-on display.
Also found in the Android System Intelligence app are fresh hints that Gemini Space will support live sports scores and finance updates. There’s even a new toggle in At a Glance settings for financial recaps – a clear sign that Google is planning deeper personalization and proactive notifications right from the lock screen.
The potential addition of something called an Ambience Hub adds more intrigue. While it’s unclear exactly how it will function, the name aligns with existing features like “ambient display,” implying a centralized space for helpful, glanceable information.
If Gemini Space rolls out as expected, it would be Google’s answer to Samsung’s Now Bar – a contextual chip at the bottom of the lock screen – and Now Brief, a full summary view of your day. While the current At a Glance widget shows some useful bits, it lacks the richness and interactivity Samsung users enjoy. Gemini Space could bridge that gap.
What’s still unclear is whether this enhanced experience will be exclusive to newer Pixel devices or retroactively available on older models. Regardless, it signals a strategic move by Google to spotlight its Gemini AI platform and reinforce its role as a daily assistant – right from the first glance at your phone.