Explore Android 16 Developer Preview: New ‘Even Dimmer’ Feature Unveiled

Key Insights

• The inaugural developer preview of Android 16 unveils a feature called “Even Dimmer,” which enhances the screen dimming capability integrated within the brightness control slider.
• This feature refines the previous Extra Dim function by removing the need for manual activation, allowing fluid brightness adjustments that go below the device’s hardware minimums.
• Currently, Even Dimmer is available exclusively on the Pixel 9 and activates automatically when the brightness slider is moved to its lowest point.

In its latest developer preview, Google announces a novel method for controlling screen brightness through the innovative Even Dimmer feature. This improvement builds on the capabilities of the Extra Dim function, presenting it in a more accessible and user-friendly manner.

Previously, using the Extra Dim feature required navigating through a series of steps in Settings > Accessibility and enabling Quick Settings tiles. This lengthy process often resulted in users neglecting to adjust their settings in response to changing lighting conditions, causing screens to stay dim when they should be brighter during the day.

Even Dimmer transforms this user experience by seamlessly incorporating itself into the standard brightness control of Android. When users pull the brightness slider to its far-left position, an automated dimming layer is engaged, surpassing the hardware-defined minimum brightness set by the device. As a result, users are less likely to unintentionally set their screens to an impractically low brightness level; moving the control to the right restores typical brightness settings effortlessly.

A closer look at the technical aspects reveals certain limitations of this feature. Currently, Even Dimmer is exclusive to the Pixel 9, owing to its specific framework overlay settings. Google has activated the feature-controlling flag to “true” only for this particular device, while other Pixel models do not have this capability.

This limited accessibility invites speculation regarding Google’s strategy for rollout. It remains uncertain whether this is a deliberate pilot program or an unintentional oversight. Future developer previews are expected to clarify Google’s intentions for wider distribution across its lineup of Pixel devices.

This thoughtful advancement in Android’s brightness management reflects Google’s dedication to enhancing the user experience. By removing the necessity for manual toggling and complicated adjustments, Even Dimmer provides a simplified and more intuitive method for users to manage their screen brightness.

Source of news and images: Android Authority