Google says Android Auto’s latest update should end those frustrating disconnects and freezes

Google has introduced several new features to the Pixel Journal app with the launch of the Pixel 11, and these enhancements are now available on older devices as well. The latest version, 2026.07.27.x, has been widely rolled out, with a changelog highlighting the "Journal August 2026 Updates."

To enable Sleep data tracking in the app, users must navigate to the App info page within the Pixel Journal settings, access the Health, fitness and wellness permissions, and toggle on the "Sleep" option.

On the compose screen, the Inspiration bottom sheet has received a facelift with a new top icon, a "Refresh" capability, and an explicit "Close" button. Additionally, a new Customization tab has been added, providing users with options to control Media layout in Compact or Full mode for an entry.

The most significant update in this version is the introduction of the "Auto format an entry in simple mode" or "expressive mode" feature. This functionality, which leverages Google's Private AI Compute in the cloud, allows users to effortlessly format their journal entries. While this feature is currently cloud-based, Google plans to expand AI experiences to on-device processing in other Pixel apps.

Pixel Journal now benefits from Google's Private AI Compute, ensuring industry-leading privacy safeguards. The app operates in a secure, isolated environment both on the device and in the cloud, allowing users to turn off AI features in the Journal settings if desired.

Other notable updates include the ability to set journaling reminders at specific times, a dark theme enhancement for better visibility of the bookmarks icon in the Entries tab, and visual tweaks to the calendar in the Insights tab. These improvements have been observed on a Pixel 10a, but the update is still not widely rolled out across all devices.