Google has introduced two key updates: a new 3-in-1 charging dock for Pixel devices and the Google Home Favorites widget on Android, designed to enhance convenience and control for users of smart technology.

Google’s 3-in-1 Charging Dock: Streamlined, But With Some Limitations

The Google Store now offers a Wasserstein 3-in-1 charging dock priced at $69.99, allowing users to charge a Pixel phone, Pixel Watch, and Pixel Buds simultaneously. This updated dock improves upon an earlier model, originally focused on Fitbit, by adding better support for Pixel Watch. However, it remains tethered to USB-C for power rather than adopting the more widely used Qi wireless charging standard.

Design and Compatibility

The new dock uses a combination of charging methods. The Pixel Watch or compatible Fitbit models charge using a magnetic pin-based system, while the Pixel phone and Pixel Buds rely on USB-C. Though effective, this setup seems somewhat dated, especially given the prevalence of Qi wireless charging in most Pixel devices, including Pixel Buds.

Google’s decision to stick with USB-C comes with certain advantages. USB-C charging is generally faster than Qi, particularly for devices like the Pixel Fold, Pixel A-series phones, and the Pixel Buds A-Series, which either lack Qi or are limited to slower wireless charging speeds (5W for some devices). Using USB-C can also result in less heat generation, extending the life of the devices being charged. Despite this, many users might find the absence of wireless charging a drawback, as wireless charging offers greater flexibility and convenience.

Availability and Alternatives

The 3-in-1 charging dock is available for purchase now on the Google Store. For those who prefer Qi wireless charging, third-party alternatives are also available. Additionally, Google offers a separate Pixel Watch charging stand made by Spigen for $25, which is compatible with both the Google Store and Amazon.

Google Home Favorites Widget: Customizable Smart Home Control

Another exciting release from Google is the new Google Home Favorites widget for Android. Initially announced in May, the widget is now available to all Android users running Android 12 or later, with no need to join Google’s Public Preview program. This tool provides users with fast, customizable control over their smart home devices and automations directly from their home screen.

Features and Customization

The Google Home Favorites widget is designed to give users easy access to smart home functions with a range of flexible layouts. The widget can take up an entire home screen page or be resized to a compact 2×1 format, depending on the user’s preferences. This flexibility makes it a handy tool for controlling multiple devices at once, including lights, blinds, and other smart home products.

Users can either mirror their Favorites tab from the Google Home app or manually select specific devices and actions to display in the widget. Once placed on the home screen, the widget’s layout can be adjusted by pressing and holding on it, then tapping the pencil icon to make further changes. For example, the widget automatically refreshes the status of connected devices every 30 minutes, ensuring the information displayed is always up to date.

Tapping on certain tiles, such as those for cameras, Wi-Fi, or thermostats, opens the respective device’s control page, providing detailed management options. However, for more sensitive tasks—like unlocking smart locks or opening garage doors—additional user authentication steps are required, adding a layer of security to these actions.

Expanding to iOS

Although Android users already have access to this widget, iOS users are currently limited to a test version available through Google’s Preview Program. As of Google Home version 3.24, Android users with devices running Android 12 and above can enjoy the full experience.

Conclusion: Enhancing the Pixel Ecosystem

Google’s latest hardware and software offerings are clear examples of its ongoing efforts to improve the user experience within its ecosystem. The 3-in-1 charging dock brings convenience to users with multiple Pixel devices, even though some might prefer a wireless charging solution. Meanwhile, the Google Home Favorites widget further strengthens Google’s smart home integration, providing a simple yet powerful way to control and manage smart devices from your Android phone.

With these updates, Google continues to cater to users who value both functionality and ease of use, whether they’re managing smart devices or powering up their Pixel products.