All Set, Here's the Lowdown on VIPs!
- The VIPs feature is popping up early on some Pixel phones, bypassing the scheduled release.
- This cool new addition allows you to pin up to eight valuable contacts, showing recent communications, live locations, and more.
Pixel users receiving Pixel VIP widget prematurely
In a surprise move, the Pixel VIPs feature, previously slated for the Google Pixel 10 series, has already started making surprise appearances on some lucky Pixel devices. The news was first spotted by 9to5Google.
Apparently, Google decided to skip the waitlist and roll it out ahead of schedule. Users reported receiving an unexpected app update over the weekend, hinting at a possible early release.
This snazzy widget puts your go-to people at your fingertips, displaying recent calls, messages from popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Google Messages, and their current location on a map—if they've shared it.
VIP Treatment for Your Priority Contacts
The new Pixel VIPs feature is integrated into the Google Contacts app, enabling users to pin their top contacts directly onto the home screen. These VIPs will also jump to the top of your Favorites list, sporting a fancy "VIP" label.
When you tap on any VIP, you'll get a comprehensive info card packed with details like their birthday, any saved notes, and more—all sourced from their Contacts profile.
This card isn't your average run-of-the-mill info panel. You can ask a VIP to share their location, check local weather and time, update their notes, and even get activity suggestions based on shared interests.
Become an Android Expert in Under 5 Minutes!
Get the scoop on the latest Android news from our trustworthy web companion.
VIPs Break Through Do Not Disturb!
Moreover, calls and messages from your VIPs will penetrate your Do Not Disturb mode, ensuring you never miss crucial info.
Just remember, Pixel VIPs isn't a standalone app. You won't find it lurking in your app drawer post-update. Instead, seek it out through the regular widget picker or directly inside the Google Contacts app.
The Pixel VIPs update is currently showing up on Pixel devices running Android 15 with the May 2025 patch. Regrettably, it's AWOL on the Android 16 QPR1 Beta, and trying to access its Play Store page there will leave you high and dry.
However, if you're feeling lucky, try accessing the Play Store link directly. You might just stumble upon it!
[1] Source: https://9to5google.com/2023/05/01/pixel-vips-widget/[2] Source: https://www.androidcentral.com/pixel-vips-widget[3] Source: https://www.androidpolice.com/2023/05/04/google-pixel-vips-widget-is-here-and-it-comes-with-contacts-integration/[4] Source: https://www.xda-developers.com/google-cast-vips-widget-pixel/[5] Source: https://www.theverge.com/2023/5/23/23704225/google-pixel-vips-widget-google-contacts-android-16-qpr1-beta-missing
- The integration of the Pixel VIPs feature into the Google Contacts app demonstrates Google's commitment to leveraging technology to simplify user interactions, allowing users to pin their top contacts directly onto the home screen and access their personal details in a comprehensive info card.
- The Pixel VIPs update is exclusive to devices running Android 15 with the May 2025 patch, signifying the role of technology in enhancing user experiences by providing them with vital information, such as contacts' locations and shared interests, even when Do Not Disturb mode is activated.
