Android 10 previews showed off a Rules feature, allowing users to automate settings based on location and/or Wi-Fi connection. The feature disappeared for the most part following the final Android 10 release, but it looks like Google has pushed it out to plenty more people.
Android Police reports that the feature is now available to a variety of Pixel phones on Android 10, and we can confirm seeing it on our Pixel 4 as well (running Android 10 and the February 2020 patch). It can be found by tapping Settings > System > Advanced > Rules, or by simply searching for “rules” in the settings search bar.
The feature is very rudimentary right now though, only allowing you to set your phone to silent, vibrate, ring, or Do Not Disturb based on your location or connected Wi-Fi hotspot. So you can set your device to Do Not Disturb when you’re connected to your home Wi-Fi, or set it to ring when you’re at the local mall. Furthermore, there’s a toggle to suggest new rules based on your habits.
It’s a little disappointing that Rules isn’t as expansive as LG’s Smart Settings/Context Awareness, which also lets you launch a desired app when wired earphones or Bluetooth accessories are connected. Furthermore, LG’s take on Rules lets you toggle Wi-Fi connectivity based on your location. So if you want to automatically disable Wi-Fi and save juice when out and about, this is entirely possible.
Nevertheless, we’re glad to see Google finally rolling out Rules, and here’s hoping they quickly bring more triggers and actions to the table. Did you get Rules on your device? Let us know in the comments!
