On supported Pixel 11 Pro phones, manage HiLight under Settings → System → HiLight. Google’s published instructions explain how to turn the feature on or off and choose its Gemini and favorite-call cues, but do not provide a HiLight storage control or a dedicated storage-permission setting. HiLight is documented for Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold.
What HiLight does—and which phones support it
Google describes HiLight as “a ring of ambient, color-coded LED lights wrapped around the camera’s flash.” It can glow for Gemini activity and incoming calls from favorite contacts. Favorite-contact calls are supported with Phone by Google and WhatsApp. Google lists Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold as supported models. Google Store’s HiLight overview describes the feature, while Google Pixel Phone Help provides the setup details.
Manage HiLight and its notification cues
- Open the phone’s Settings app.
- Tap System → HiLight.
- Turn Use HiLight on or off.
- Choose whether to use HiLight for Speaking with Gemini and Calls from favorites.
These controls govern the documented HiLight cues. HiLight is not described as a general visual alert for every app notification.
Set a color for a favorite contact
- Make sure the Contacts app is updated and the person is marked as a favorite.
- Open Contacts and select that person.
- Under Contact Settings, tap HiLight.
- Choose a color. Tap Preview if you want to see it, then tap Done.
Storage and permissions: what Google documents
Google’s HiLight instructions do not describe a setting to manage HiLight storage, clear HiLight data, or grant a HiLight-specific storage permission. The documented controls are the system feature switch, cue choices, contact color, and Mode behavior. That means there is no published HiLight storage-management or storage-permission path to follow in these instructions; it does not establish whether the phone stores any underlying system data.
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
Do not change app permissions specifically for HiLight based on an assumed menu path. Google’s feature documentation does not identify a HiLight-specific permission screen. If your phone presents a permission prompt, follow the prompt’s wording and the settings available on your device.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
Rank #4
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
Troubleshoot a favorite call that does not glow
- Check the favorite and cue switch. Confirm the caller is a favorite and Calls from favorites is enabled in Settings → System → HiLight.
- Check flash notifications. Google states: “If you enable flash notifications, HiLight won’t display for incoming calls.” If flash notifications are on, that setting prevents HiLight from appearing for incoming calls.
- Review the active Mode. Google says HiLight glows by default in Flip to Shhh, Bedtime, and Do Not Disturb. In a Mode’s People → Calls settings, selecting None also silences call ringing or vibration while that Mode is active.
- Check the type of alert. The documented call cue is for favorites, not every incoming call or app notification.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
