Google Pixel 9's AI-powered Weather app is rolling out on older Pixel phones

Google is finally rolling out its AI-powered Pixel Weather app, initially launched with the Pixel 9, to older Pixel models as part of the October 2024 Feature Drop. Users with Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8 series devices, including the budget-friendly Pixel 6a and Pixel 7a models, will see the app available for update through the Play Store.

The Pixel Weather app isn’t a brand-new install but rather an update to the existing com.google.android.apps.weather service on Pixel devices. Once updated, users will notice a new “Weather” icon in the app drawer, giving easy access to AI-driven weather insights and a more feature-rich interface. The app now offers options previously reserved for the Pixel 9, bringing features such as customizable weather data blocks and a daily AI-generated weather summary.

After installing the update, Pixel Weather requires permissions for notifications and location access. For users who want to make it their primary source of weather alerts, a bit of configuration is needed: tapping the profile icon within the app and enabling Pixel Weather for notifications, followed by disabling weather notifications from the Google app to avoid duplicate alerts.

The app comes with a clean, two-column layout suited for larger screens, which adapts well to devices like the Pixel Tablet and foldables. Users can view detailed weather data, including precipitation forecasts, wind speed, UV index, air quality, and sunrise and sunset times. The weather map offers a 6-hour precipitation outlook, available in several regions, including the U.S., U.K., and much of Europe, excluding Italy and Luxembourg.

Google seems to have drawn inspiration from the discontinued Dark Sky app, especially in its AI-powered summary feature. Many Pixel users have been seeking a robust weather app since Apple acquired and shut down Dark Sky, and Pixel Weather may serve as a welcome alternative for some. However, with a lukewarm initial reception of just 3.3 stars on the Play Store, Google might need to address certain usability issues before Pixel Weather can fully fill Dark Sky’s shoes.

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