Your Google Pixel has a new transport mode: Here’s how to use it
What you need to know
- Google has quietly introduced a new Transit Mode in Android 16 QPR3 that automatically adjusts some settings while on the go.
- Transit mode can change audio modes, control Bluetooth, and filter which notifications appear during your commute.
- Users can customize alerts, contacts, and apps through Settings > Modes > Transport on supported Pixel devices.
While it may seem like Google hasn’t added many new features with the Android 16 QPR3 update, now we’re getting a new Transport mode that quietly arrived with the update.
One of the best parts of owning a Google Pixel device is that the company often adds new features through quarterly updates. Furthermore, one of the most overlooked features of Pixel phones is Modes. While it replaces the standard Do Not Disturb settings, it allows you to customize how notifications and interruptions behave.
With the latest Android 16 update, Google added a new Transit mode to Pixel devices (via 9to5Google).
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Transport mode comes silently with Android 16 QPR3
Transit mode lets you control how your Pixel behaves while you’re on the move, whether you’re on a train, bus, or car. When enabled, the feature can automatically adjust several settings when your phone detects that you’re on the go.
For example, it can switch your device from normal sound mode to silent to avoid loud ringing in public. It can also modify Bluetooth and control which contacts or apps are allowed to send notifications during your commute.
You can enable Transport Mode on your Pixel by going to Settings > Modes and select Transit. According to Google, this feature allows you to customize several settings:
- To set the behavior of the volume during migration, select Sound is on, Only vibrateor Be quiet.
- To control the connection during migration, change Use Bluetooth while traveling turn it on or off.
- Open it Allow all notifications if you want to get everything.
- Tap People choosing which contacts can send notifications.
- Tap Applications choosing which apps are allowed to notify you.
- Tap Alarms and other interruptions to allow certain warnings.
In addition to the Transit mode, Google has also added commuting information to the At A Glance widget. The widget will now show more details about your commute, including the reason for the delay on your regular route if it happens.
According to Google’s support documentation, Google Maps needs time to learn your commute patterns, and it can take two to three weeks before commute alerts start appearing.
You’ll also need to grant permissions such as accessing the Google Maps backend, set your home and work locations, verify location settings, and create your commute profile within Transit mode for the feature to work.
Transport mode is rolling out with the latest Pixel Android update, though it may take some time before it appears on your device. The feature is available on the Pixel 7 and newer models worldwide, except for Europe and the UK.
Android Central Take
This is honestly a great addition. The Pixel’s Modes feature has been underrated, and adding a dedicated Transit mode makes it even more useful. Little touches like automatically silencing your phone or filtering notifications during the commute are exactly the kind of thoughtful features I’d love to see Google add to Pixel devices.
