Google Pixel update brings nifty double-tap and raise-to-wake features

The Big G is brushing up its flagship Google Pixel smartphone with some much-wanted features from its Nexus predecessor that will aid you in quickly and easily checking your notifications.

Google has rolled out an update in Canada that brings double-tap and raise-to-wake functionalities to the Pixel – including the larger XL model. This means you’ll now be able to conveniently wake your device to see alerts and notifications by simply raising your phone or double-tapping its screen.

While the features were already available in previous Google devices like the Nexus 6P, loyal customers were disappointed to see these two functionalities missing from the Pixel.

Apple recently unveiled its own raise-to-wake functionality for iPhone and iPad with the announcement of iOS 10. Android competitors like LG and HTC have also added similar features to some of their latest smartphone lineups.

It remains unclear when Google will release the update for US and international Pixel owners, but you probably won’t have to wait too long.

Those with access to the update can activate the newly added features by jumping through to the ‘Moves’ section in the general settings panel. Once you’re there, all you have to do is enable the options for ‘Double-tap to check phone’ as well as ‘Lift to check phone.’

In case you’re too impatient to wait for the new features to arrive, Droid Life has posted detailed instructions on how to download and install the update using an over-the-air package.