Google Pixel phones get a better Clock app and World Clock widget due to this new app

This week, Google rolled out a slew of new features for its Pixel phones, including the December Feature Drop and Gemini AI, its answer to GPT-4. But amid these major updates, a small but significant change has emerged: a new Weather app that feeds weather information within the Clock app.

This new application, which now has its own list on the Play store, stands out from the redesigned weather forecasts accessible via the Google app or the At a Glance widget. It exists to provide weather data to the Clock app, offering current conditions and forecasts within its interface, as well as the World Clock home screen widget.

Weather integration in the Clock app, the World Clock widget and its Google Play Store listing

Once downloaded, the app prompts users to add local weather to the Clock app. After granting the necessary permissions, the current weather conditions will appear next to the time, both for your location and any added time zones. The app further integrates with your alarm, displaying current conditions and a daily layoff forecast.

This integration was first spotted by Android expert Mishaal Rahman during the development phase of the December Feature Drop. Initially limited to the Pixel 8 series, it is now available on all Pixel phones running the update, starting with the Pixel 5a. Google Pixel users enrolled in the QPR1 beta program may also remember getting this feature on a limited basis back in October as part of Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2. It also didn't appear as an app Separate Play Store at the time.

It is important to note that, although practical, the functionality of the application remains limited. Exploiting current conditions does not reveal deeper details or hourly forecasts. Additionally, once enabled, disabling weather integration requires navigating through the system settings. Additionally, since it is for the Pixel Clock app, this Weather app is currently only available on Pixel devices and cannot be installed on other Android phones.

Despite its seemingly minimal value, the new Weather app offers a convenient way to access weather information without leaving the Clock app. Its integration with the alarm and world clock widget adds additional value, making it a useful tool for Pixel users.