Google Maps, one of the best navigation apps, could be getting a new power-saving mode for navigation that is extremely minimalist, with the goal of conserving battery. The potential battery saver was found in the 25.44.03.824313610 beta release by Android Authority as part of their APK breakdowns.
As a reminder, APK teardowns can find code that hints at a software feature. However, that doesn’t mean the tool won’t change between now and release or launch at all.
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(Image credit: Android Authority)
Once launched, it will only display key information, such as the next direction, and remove much of the standard Google Maps UI. It also appears that the Maps app loses all its color in favor of a more monochromatic black look.
Based on the images shared by AA, the directions are perhaps a bit too sparse, considering that they don’t indicate the name of the next street you need to turn onto. That is likely, and hopefully, something that will be changed before an official release.
Power saving mode should support walking, driving, and biking directions so far. It’s unclear whether public transit directions will be supported.
It’s also unknown whether voice navigation will be available, but if it’s built for power saving, it may be turned off by default.
There is one clear limitation so far: power saving mode is currently limited to portrait mode, and landscape mode is unavailable.
Again, this appears to be a work in progress, so Google could change things. Hopefully, this will be one that launches soon or receives more details in future Maps updates.
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