How to Modify the Brightness of the Flashlight on Your Google Pixel

Google Pixel options from Samsung and Apple have had this capability for quite some time; Pixel users were limited to the standard brightness level. Regardless of whether it was excessively bright or too dim, there weren’t many options aside from utilizing third-party applications like “Flashlight Tiramisu.” Surprisingly, Pixel devices did not have their flashlight configured to its highest brightness level but rather set at 50%.

However, this has now changed. The Android 16 QPR3 update officially introduced a brightness slider, which has been subtly rolling out to users as part of the March 2026 Pixel feature release. Users can now easily adjust the flashlight’s brightness level through Quick Settings without relying on third-party apps. Since this feature is quite new, there is considerable confusion surrounding it, particularly regarding its functionality and why tapping the flashlight icon brings up the flashlight strength slider for some users while turning it off for others.

How to modify flashlight brightness on Google Pixel

Before you proceed, navigate to Settings, go to Software Updates, then to System Updates, and install the most recent update if it hasn’t been done yet. Next, open Quick Settings, long-press the flashlight tile, and you should immediately see the “Flashlight Strength” section with a slider beneath it. Moving the slider up increases brightness, whereas sliding it down reduces it. Additionally, if you turn off the flashlight after adjusting its brightness and then turn it back on, the brightness will stay the same and won’t revert to the default setting.

A crucial aspect to keep in mind: the flashlight tile’s behavior is influenced by its size. If the tile size in Quick Settings is 2×1, tapping the word Flashlight on the right side of the tile will bring up the “Flashlight Strength” menu. Tapping the flashlight icon on the left toggles the flashlight on and off. If you change your flashlight tile to 1×1, tapping it will toggle the flashlight on and off, while a long press will open the “Flashlight Strength” menu. To adjust the tile size, open Quick Settings.