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Android Canary 2610 refreshes Pixel’s Wallpaper & style interface, according to Android Authority’s examination of build ZP11.260918.007. The report also found code strings hinting at WhatsApp support for Pixel HiLight notifications, but it could not verify that support works. “Missing HiLight” refers to WhatsApp’s absence from an earlier supported-app list—not evidence that HiLight itself was removed.
What changed in Pixel’s Wallpaper & style screen?
Android Authority reports that Canary 2610 reorganizes the Wallpaper & style area. A carousel now includes custom icon and theme pack options, while AI wallpaper and Emoji Workshop no longer appear in that carousel. The report also says the former Live Effects option has been divided into three choices:
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- Shape effects
- Animate
- Weather effects
A new Featured button opens the carousel. These are observations of the build reported by Android Authority; Google’s Canary 2610 announcement does not provide an official feature-by-feature changelog.
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That remains unconfirmed. Android Authority reported that Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6.1 had introduced HiLight LED notifications for messages, but WhatsApp was not among the supported messaging apps it identified. Later, the outlet found resource strings in a Pixel 9 build reading “Google Messages, WhatsApp” and “Subtle lights when your favorite contacts message you with Google Messages or WhatsApp.”
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro XL; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
The strings suggest Google may be preparing WhatsApp support, and Android Authority interpreted them as potentially relating to Pixel 11 Pro phones. The outlet did not verify the feature in operation. They are clues in the software, not confirmation that WhatsApp HiLight notifications are available to users. Nor do they show that HiLight itself has been removed.
Which devices have a Canary 2610 image?
Google’s Android Beta Program announcement, posted October 7, 2026, identifies the build as ZP11.260918.007 and lists system images for:
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
- Pixel 11, Pixel 10, Pixel 9, Pixel 8, and Pixel 7 families
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet
- Generic System Image (GSI)
Check Google’s current device and image listing before installing; a device family appearing in the announcement does not establish compatibility with every individual model or configuration.
Should you install Android Canary 2610 on your main phone?
Generally, no. Google calls Canary highly experimental and says it is not recommended for general use. The Android Canary documentation, last updated July 10, 2025, warns that users should expect issues and breaking changes and says Canary is not the best choice for a primary or only device. Bugs may affect normal operation, and features in a Canary build may never reach stable Android.
Rank #3
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
If you have a supported Pixel and want to test it, Google directs users to install Canary with Android Flash Tool. Plan for the possibility of erasing the device: leaving Canary for a beta or stable release requires wiping the phone and flashing another build. The alternative is to wait for a later release or for independent confirmation of the interface and WhatsApp behavior without changing your daily-use device. Google also documents configuring Canary in Android Emulator for testing across virtual device sizes and characteristics.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 10 is the everyday phone unlike anything else; it has Google Tensor G5, Pixel’s most powerful chip, an incredible camera, and advanced AI - Gemini built in[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- The upgraded triple rear camera system has a new 5x telephoto lens - up to 20x Super Res Zoom for stunning detail from far away; Night Sight takes crisp, clear photos in low-light settings; and Camera Coach helps you snap your best pics[3]
- Pixel 10 is designed - scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and has an IP68 rating for water and dust protection[21]; plus, the Actua display - 3,000-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[4]
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