Verizon Pixel, Pixel XL Oreo Updates Include Surprise Features
The advantage of owning a Google Pixel or Nexus device is that, at least within the device's supported lifespan, you're guaranteed to get Android updates and new versions first before anyone else does. At least in theory. If you got your device via a carrier, however, you will still face some delays, though not as much as OEM phones. The good news is that Verizon has finally started pushing out the Android 8.0 Oreo update for the Pixel and Pixel XL phones under its care. The strange news is that it comes with two features never before heard in Oreo land.
There shouldn't be any difference where you get your Pixel from. A Pixel is a Pixel and it should be running Android the way Google says it should. At first glance, Verizon's update does seem to be on par with what we've seen so far. It talks about picture-in-picture support, more organized and controllable notifications, and even autofill for password managers.
Things get a bit confusing later on, however, when Verizon starts talking about features that may have been rumored for Oreo but never formally confirmed, let alone announced. For example, it talks about an Always On Display feature, which has never been on the first gen Pixel. It might be a Pixel 2 feature, so it's a bit surprising to see it here.
Another unexpected mention is Instant Apps. This basically means that, when using the launcher to search for apps, related Instant Apps, shown with a lightning badge on the icon, will also be displayed. Code for this was actually already added to Android but never mentioned even in passing.
Given how unexpected these two features are, there is a chance Verizon made an error somewhere. That or Google never thought those features would be worth mentioning, like other interesting tidbits about Android Oreo.