Google Pixel to add lock‑screen shortcuts and Gemini AI troubleshooting

Google is preparing new software updates for its Pixel smartphones that will let users launch apps directly from the lock screen via shortcut tiles. The upcoming Android 17 QPR2 Beta 2 build includes an “App Launch Shortcut” feature, allowing multiple app shortcuts to be placed on the lock screen for quick access.

In parallel, Google is testing a Gemini‑powered “Device Help” tool that uses natural‑language queries to diagnose and fix issues. Users can describe a problem, such as a yellow‑tinted screen, and Gemini will examine the device settings and suggest the appropriate adjustment, like disabling Night Light. The feature is currently labeled as a Labs experiment and may become a standard part of the Pixel experience.

These enhancements aim to make Pixel phones more convenient and to showcase deeper integration of Google’s Gemini AI across the Android ecosystem.