What is Pixel VIPs?
Pixel VIPs is a built-in service, not a standalone app, that lets you mark your most valued contacts as "VIPs"—giving them special priority when it comes to notifications, interactions, and even bypassing Do Not Disturb mode. Its goal? To help users stay closely connected to their key contacts without any extra steps.
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Key Features of Pixel VIPs
Dedicated Widget for VIP Contacts
- A new widget, which looks similar to the existing "Favorites" from Google Contacts, now features a blue heart icon.
- It displays a streamlined grid of your VIP contacts directly on your home screen for one-tap calling, messaging, or WhatsApp access.
Bypass Do Not Disturb
- VIPs get priority status. This means their calls and messages can break through Do Not Disturb settings—perfect for urgent communication.
Smart Feed & Activity Tracking
- Inside the VIP interface, users get a full-screen view of their chosen contacts, complete with:
- Profile photos
- Recent interaction summaries (calls, texts, WhatsApp)
- Birthday reminders
- Notes and suggestions under a "Things to do together" card section
Location & Weather Integration
- A map view shows real-time location updates of your VIPs (if shared), with current weather and local time.
Quick Notes & To-Dos
- You can add one-time notes or reminders for each VIP contact using a card-style layout, similar to Google Keep.
How to Use Pixel VIPs
If you're using a Pixel device with Android 15 and the May 2025 security patch, you may already have the service activated silently in the background. You’ll find it integrated into Google Contacts, without any need to download an app.
As of now, users on Android 16 QPR1 Beta report not seeing the feature, which suggests Google may be enabling it server-side only, at least in the early phase.
Background: From “Besties” to “VIPs”
This feature first surfaced in mid-2024 under the codename Besties, spotted in Google Contacts code. Since then, it has evolved into a full-fledged tool focused on relationship-based personalization—a trend that’s becoming increasingly popular in smartphone UX design.
Pixel VIPs is a quiet but meaningful addition to the Pixel ecosystem. While it may appear simple on the surface, it signals a shift toward deeper, human-centric features in Android—focusing on people, not just data.
Whether you're always on the go or just want to stay closer to your inner circle, Pixel VIPs could be one of your favorite new tools in Android 15.
Quick Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| VIP Widget | Homescreen access to your top contacts |
| DND Bypass | Important contacts can reach you anytime |
| Activity Feed | View call/message history and birthdays |
| Location Updates | Live location + weather for VIPs |
| Notes & Suggestions | Plan activities and take quick notes |
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