Google is rumored to be working on a new feature called Gemini Space for its Pixel phones, which seems to be inspired by Samsung's Now Bar. This feature, discovered in the latest Android 16 beta, could enhance the lock screen experience by providing real-time information through an upgraded version of the At A Glance widget.
References to Gemini Space were found in the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 release, and it seems to be a part of a new system configuration file named "Ambient Data." The presence of this file in firmware for both the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 8 Pro suggests that the feature may not be limited to upcoming Pixel models.
Additionally, hints about an "Ambience Hub" have also been uncovered, hinting towards a new interface for displaying useful data on the lock screen or always-on display. The Android System Intelligence app, which powers the current At A Glance widget, now includes references to sports scores and finance updates, indicating that these features might be integrated into Gemini Space.
This new feature appears to be Google's attempt to rebrand and enhance the At A Glance widget, similar to Samsung's Now Bar and Now Brief functionalities. With the potential introduction of Gemini Space and Ambience Hub, Pixel phones may soon offer a more immersive and informative lock screen experience.
