Smartphone users often face touch issues with their displays whenever they’re stuck in the rain outdoors. Wet screen surfaces prevent users from activating buttons by tapping on them and also makes it impossible to navigate elements on the display. Sometimes the drops of water cause ghost typing and may even place calls accidentally.
Google is testing a new feature for its Pixel phones that will help users in such situations.According to a report by Android Police, a hidden code in an Android 14 beta reveals a new feature called “adaptive touch” which will automatically make changes to the screen based on the environment and the use of screen protectors.

How this features may work

The Pixel 8 series already allows users to turn on the screen protector mode for users who have a screen protector on their phone’s display. Other Android phones have similar features that allow the user to improve the touch sensitivity of the display when it is covered with a screen protector by enabling a similar mode.
However, the rumoured “adaptive touch” for Pixel smartphone is expected to increase the screen’s sensitivity automatically when a screen protector is being used. This mode will also enable certain changes to the environment where the phone is running.

Android expert Mishaal Rahman noted that Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1 includes a string of code that says: “Touch sensitivity will automatically adjust to your environment, activities and screen protector.”
In the same beta release, “Touch sensitivity” received its own submenu in preparation for the new feature which will probably have an “adaptive touch” toggle that will be found under “Touch sensitivity” option.
Currently, the only toggle in the submenu is the Screen protector mode is the Touch sensitivity option. When toggled on, it “will increase touch sensitivity and improve touch when using a screen protector.” To activate it, users have to go to Settings > Display > Touch sensitivity.
The rumoured feature is expected to allow a finger to tap buttons and more during extremely cold weather. It should also allow the user to navigate the touchscreen using his finger while swimming. However, it’s not advisable for Pixel users to go for a swim with their phone as it comes with an IP68 dust and water resistance rating.