Google Pixel Android 10 Update: 3 Things to Expect & 4 Not To

Don't Expect Better Gesture Controls

While we've seen several reports that Google is working on a lot of changes, gestures included, don't expect anything crazy. Yes, the gestures changed in beta 2, and they're more like iOS, and the 3rd and 5th release changed them again, and on the 6th release we saw Google make another adjustment. It's getting crazy out here. Google still hasn't figured out what they want to do with navigation, sadly. 

So far, it doesn't look like Google is super interested in completely changing the entire look, feel, and navigation of Android. With Android 9 Pie and the Pixel 3 they added a gesture control system. Furthermore, in a surprise move, Google changed its mind with the Pixel 3, and those on the beta can actually disable the gesture controls and go back to the old on-screen keys. This is NOT possible on Android 9 Pie. Basically, Google is realizing gesture controls suck. 

Thankfully, it looks like on Android 10 you can choose between three different navigation methods. The old-school 3-button combo with a home, back, and recent apps button, the newer 2-button option from the Pixel 3, or go full-out gesture controls and learn everything over again. They're not the best gesture controls, but they're not too bad either. 

And while we have noticed a few helpful changes floating around online, we're not sure if gestures will change enough to make them useful. Basically, the gesture controls were one of the most criticized aspects of Pie, and I'm not sold on the 10th version of Android's style either. 

Sorry to burst your Android Quiche bubble.