It took Google three years, but the company may finally be catching up with a basic feature that Pixel users have been requesting for quite some time: the ability to adjust the flashlight’s brightness.
With the release of the latest Android 16 QPR1 beta, it looks like Google is about to add a long-awaited native brightness slider to the flashlight tile in Quick Settings.
Pixel phones have always featured a basic on/off toggle for the flashlight, but the hardware has been capable of supporting variable intensity since the Pixel 6. Other Android manufacturers like Samsung’s One UI, Xiaomi’s HyperOS, and OnePlus’s OxygenOS have had this feature for years, while Pixel users have had to turn to third-party apps like FlashDim or Google’s own Magnifier app as clunky workarounds.
Now, with the Android 16 QPR1 update, that’s finally changing. The update includes references to a new “Flashlight Strength” dialog. Developer Nail Sadykov has already been able to activate the feature, and once it’s fully live, tapping the flashlight tile in Quick Settings will turn the flashlight on or off. A label will appear below the icon, and tapping it will open the brightness slider. If the tile is shrunk, a long-press may be required to activate the feature.
While the feature works, it still lacks the sleek polish seen in Apple’s flashlight brightness control. However, there’s plenty of time for Google to refine the experience before it officially launches.
It’s surprising that it took this long for Google to implement such a simple feature. Stock Android only gained flashlight brightness support at the API level with Android 13, which means the technical groundwork has been available for nearly two years. Despite this, Google hadn’t bothered to integrate the feature into its Pixel UI until now.
For Pixel users, this isn’t just about adding a small convenience-it’s about parity with other Android phones. Features like this make a noticeable difference in everyday use, especially in dark settings or when you’re trying not to disturb others. And, importantly, you shouldn’t have to rely on third-party apps for this kind of functionality.
Expect this feature to be part of a future Pixel Feature Drop, with official support arriving later this year for devices like the Pixel 6 and newer. With Android 16 bringing a range of improvements, this is just one more reason for Pixel users to look forward to the next update.