The article discusses seven features from other smartphones, such as better volume control, Photographic Styles, widget stacks, live media controls, automation, pop-up apps, and gesture controls, that the author wishes Google would incorporate into future Pixel phones to enhance user experience.
YouTube is quietly introducing a new feature called "Stable Volume" in its video settings, which aims to even out volume levels across videos. The feature has not been rolled out to all users yet, and its exact functionality and implementation remain unclear. It is speculated that the feature could help prevent sudden volume jumps or declines while watching videos from different creators and channels. Further details are expected to be provided by Google as the feature becomes more widely available.
Google has confirmed that it will add separate volume sliders for ringtones and notifications in a future Android build, fixing the current limitation of having only one slider for both functions. The update will allow users to silence incoming calls while keeping the notification volume up and vice-versa. The feature was previously spotted in an ADB command in Android 13 QPR2 beta 1, but is expected to be officially rolled out in Android 13 QPR3 or Android 14.
A Reddit thread showcases intentionally terrible UI designs for volume controls. The designs are hilarious and include confusing layouts, tiny buttons, and even a volume control that requires the user to solve a maze. Despite the terrible designs, the author notes the usefulness of streamlined audio plugins like Waves Audio's "one-knob" series.