Google's highly anticipated Pixel Weather app makes its debut on the Pixel 9 seriesbut according to a support article, the company has confirmed that it will eventually be available on the Pixel Tablet as well. In addition, as seen in a leaked APK of the app, the app also features a two-column UI on larger screens, improving the overall user experience. While there is no official timeline for the wider release, Pixel Weather is expected to roll out to existing phones via a Pixel Feature Drop, possibly as early as December. This update will likely replace the current weather integration in the Google Clock app available on Pixel 5a and newer models.
The app offers a number of features, including a six-hour rainfall forecast based on the same model used for the nowcasting forecast. This feature will be available in the US, UK and most EU countries except Italy, Luxembourg and Liechtenstein. Users can also turn it off completely if they prefer.
Pixel Weather allows for customization, allowing users to rearrange the weather maps as they wish, but certain blocks, such as the AI weather report and hourly forecast, cannot be moved on top of others.
During setup, users will be prompted to disable existing weather notifications from the Google app to avoid duplicate notifications. To do so, navigate to Settings > Apps > Google > Notifications > Weather or Other and turn off Current weather conditions and forecasts.
A unique feature of the Pixel Weather app is the AI Weather Report, which uses artificial intelligence to provide insights into weather patterns. However, during extreme or dangerous weather events, this feature is temporarily disabled to give priority to official alerts.
The app also integrates with the Google Clock app, allowing users to view weather information directly on their clock screen. This feature is especially handy for those who rely on their Pixel devices for their daily routines and planning.
Overall, the Pixel Weather app promises to be a valuable addition to the Pixel ecosystem, offering a comprehensive and user-friendly weather experience. While the full rollout is yet to happen, the upcoming release on Pixel tablets offers a glimpse into the future of native apps on Pixel devices.