Tech Desk
Aug 07, 2024
As Android 15 is expected to arrive in the upcoming months, Google is set to introduce a taskbar to its phones to make multitasking easier.
The taskbar is likely to be similar to that already available on Android devices such as the Pixel Tablet, and book-style foldable devices like the OnePlus Open and the Galaxy Z Fold lineup.
An APK teardown of the latest beta of Android 15 indicates that Google appears to be working on support for regular Android phones to use the taskbar.
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Although, the taskbar’s expansive layout makes it practically impossible to use on smaller, conventionally-shaped screens, but Android 15 could add the ability to use it across a broader range of devices.
The taskbar allows users to quickly switch between apps without going back to the home screen. Moreover, it also supports split-screen mode and floating window multitasking.
It works with a partial swipe up from the bottom of the display, and the apps shown are mirrored from the bottom of the homescreen. However, on some devices, it can be locked to show at all times instead of needing a swipe-up.
While Android phone makers might customise it, its features and functionalities will remain the same. Also, to save space on the phone screen, users can set the taskbar to hide automatically or keep it always visible.
While the mini taskbar in Android 15 looks promising, there’s no confirmation when it will be publicly available for users.
