You’ll be able to squeeze the Pixel 3 to complete actions. Google’s 2018 flagship will ship with a squeeze-friendly body just like its predecessor, according to XDA-Developers.
The feature, known as Active Edge, was discovered in Android P Developer Preview 3. That part isn’t a surprise since the Pixel 2 was released with it. However, the report identifies “Crosshatch and “Blueline” with Active Edge. Both are codenames for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL.
Active Edge should remain largely the same when the Pixel 3 arrives this fall. If you squeeze your phone, you’ll be able to launch Google Assistant or interact with incoming notifications.
Google didn’t create the technology, but the Pixel 2 made it much more visible. The company borrowed it from HTC after the U11 included Edge Sense last year. Active Edge is the repackaged name for the Pixel 2, and remember HTC helped manufacture the smaller model. The technology is essentially shared between the two companies now.
Another feature confirmed in the report is wireless charging. Based on leaks in which alleged photos of the Pixel 3 XL were posted, it appeared as if Google would transition to a glass-made back panel. The material is necessary for wireless charging since metal interferes with LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth signals.
XDA-Developers spotted references to wireless charging in the depths of Android P Developer Preview 3, too.
The Pixel 3 probably won’t be official for at least three more months. In recent years, Google’s hosted a hardware-focused event in early October to introduce phones and other connected devices. The newest Pixel phone could be joined by a smartwatch. Until an announcement is made, we’ll have to continue relying on leaks and speculation.
