Google’s Pixel 11 Pro series now supports WhatsApp message alerts through its HiLight notification feature, according to updates released this week.
WhatsApp users on Pixel 11 Pro devices will now see message alerts through the HiLight system. This update arrives as part of the November 2026 Pixel Drop. This release includes the Android 17 QPR2 update.
The light-based system now works with third-party messaging. Previously, the hardware only supported Google Messages and WhatsApp calls. This expands how the device communicates when it is face down on a surface.
The HiLight feature lives in the camera island. It is available on the Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold. Users see colored glows for favorite contacts during calls. Now, those glows also work for text messages.
HiLight is on by default. But it will not show for incoming calls if flash notifications are enabled, according to Google’s support documentation.
“HiLight already worked with WhatsApp calls and now, it works with WhatsApp messages, too, doing the heavy lifting so my favorites get the VIP attention,” said Shenaz Zack, Google’s Senior Director of Product Management for Pixel, in a video posted to X on November 13, 2026.
WhatsApp becomes the first third-party app with HiLight support
WhatsApp is the first third-party app to use HiLight. Google’s official announcement for the November Pixel Drop only mentioned Google Messages. However, WhatsApp support was confirmed by Zack.
WhatsApp is a primary messaging app for much of the world. It is not just a backup for RCS or SMS. Adding this support helps many Pixel 11 Pro buyers, Talk Android reported.
The update is rolling out to all Pixel 11 Pro devices as of November 13, 2026. Users can find the controls in Settings, then System, and under HiLight. To use it, people must install the November Pixel Drop and enable the option for favorite contacts. Users can pick a specific contact and assign a unique color for calls and messages.
HiLight remains exclusive to Pro models
The HiLight system is only for Pro models. The standard Pixel 11 does not have this feature. The light is built into the camera island of the Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold.
Google tested these functions during the Android 17 QPR2 beta. The company has not said which other apps might get HiLight support in the future.
Gemini Intelligence expands to more Android devices
The November Pixel Drop also brings new Gemini Intelligence features. Google first introduced this branding with the Pixel 11. Some Gemini features were previously restricted to the newest Pixel and Samsung devices.
These included the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Z Fold8, Z Flip8, and S26 series. This update expands those capabilities to more Android devices. The Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold are receiving these features. The budget Pixel 10a is excluded from this expansion.
Rambler is a new feature in this drop. It is an AI-assisted voice input system. It converts spoken thoughts into organized text in real-time. Rambler is available on the Pixel 10 series, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, and the new motorola signature 27. The motorola device is scheduled for U.S. pre-order on November 19.
The Pixel 10 series also gets improved personalized suggestions. This feature was formerly known as Magic Cue. It helps with tasks like generating context menu summaries. It can also send grocery lists to Google Keep.
Task automation is also expanding. Gemini can handle logistics like booking reservations, hailing rides, or ordering food. This feature will now include users in Japan, India, and the UK.
Other updates in the November Pixel Drop include the Create My Widget tool for custom widget building. There is also an AI-powered math solver and updates to Call Screen. Google is also upgrading AI-powered icon theming. The feature moves to a Nano Banana model. This provides 10 new icon styles for home screens.
Which other messaging apps will Google add to the HiLight system?