● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportMedium impact1 neutral
Android Canary build introduces 'App Handles' for enhanced multitasking on foldables
Key points
- "App Handles" are in Android Canary build 2608.
- The feature pins apps to the taskbar for quick pop-up access.
- It supports multiple apps and can switch to full or split-screen.
- Designed for foldable devices like the Pixel Fold.
Introduction of App Handles
Google has introduced a new multitasking feature named "App Handles" within the latest Android Canary build (2608). This functionality is specifically designed for foldable devices, such as the Pixel Fold series, to offer more flexible multitasking capabilities.
Functionality and Usage
"App Handles" allow users to pin an application to their taskbar. When activated, the pinned app opens in a pop-up window, positioned in a corner of the screen, without obscuring the content of the main application running in the background. For example, a Calculator app can be opened as a pop-up while Chrome runs full-screen.
The feature also supports quickly transitioning the pop-up app into a full-screen or split-screen format. Users can also have multiple apps in this format simultaneously, indicated by a "+" button next to the app icon.
Impact on Multitasking
This development evolves Android's approach to multitasking on foldable devices. While similar features exist, such as Samsung's pop-up windows and Google's own Bubbles, "App Handles" provide a dedicated and readily accessible method for managing secondary applications. This could be useful for tasks like note-taking or monitoring background processes.
Availability
Currently, "App Handles" is only present in the Android Canary build 2608. Google plans to roll out this feature in future stable Android releases.
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Reporting from
Google is developing a new multitasking feature called "App Handles" for Android foldable devices, currently available in the latest Android Canary build. This feature allows users to pin apps to the taskbar for quick access in pop-up windows, improving flexible multitasking on devices like the Pixel Fold.