Google has introduced a new Transit Mode for Pixel smartphones as part of the March 2026 Feature Drop, aimed at helping users manage their daily commute more efficiently.
The feature works alongside updates to the At a Glance widget, which will now display real-time commute alerts directly on the lock screen and home screen.
For example, users may see notifications such as “Significant delays on work route”, followed by details like “The Blue line from Main Station is delayed.” The update expands the existing Commute feature that already provides traffic information and estimated travel time.
What Transit Mode does
Transit Mode is designed to automatically adjust phone settings while travelling on public transport, such as trains. The feature is part of the Modes system on Pixel devices, which also includes options like Do Not Disturb and Driving Mode.
Users can customise several settings while using Transit Mode, including:
- Adjusting sound settings to Sound on, Vibrate only, or Silent
- Turning Bluetooth usage during commuting on or off
- Allowing all notifications
- Selecting specific people allowed to send notifications
- Choosing which apps can send notifications
- Managing alarms and other interruptions
How to set up Transit Mode
To activate Transit Mode and commute alerts, users need to configure the feature through the device settings.
Steps to enable the feature:
- Go to Settings
- Tap Modes
- Select Transit
- Open App Settings
- Tap Set up commute notifications
During setup, users must:
- Set home and work locations
- Confirm location settings
- Build a commute profile
Requirements for the feature
Google notes that Google Maps requires time to learn commuting patterns, so it may take 2–3 weeks after setup for commute information to appear.
The At a Glance commute feature uses Google Maps Timeline (Location History) to understand travel routes and habits.
Real-time transit updates on At a Glance are available only on Pixel 7 and newer devices, excluding the Pixel Tablet.
The feature is available globally except in Europe and the UK, and requires a Google account and Google Maps connection.
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